Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak

When it comes to grilling, few things are as satisfying as the rich, smoky flavors of a perfectly cooked steak. But what if you could elevate that experience with the bright, fresh flavors of a classic Caprese salad and the tangy kick of balsamic vinegar? That’s exactly what you’ll get with this Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak. Combining the boldness of grilled flank steak with the refreshing bite of fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze, this dish is a celebration of vibrant flavors.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those dishes that brings people together. I first made it for a summer barbecue, and it was an instant hit. The blend of grilled steak and fresh Caprese ingredients created a perfect harmony, and it quickly became one of our go-to meals for family gatherings. Whether you’re grilling on a weekend or preparing a weeknight dinner, this dish offers a sophisticated yet easy way to enjoy steak.

It’s a fantastic choice for a variety of occasions from casual weeknight meals to impressive dinner parties. The best part? The marinade is simple, and the grilling process is quick, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, elevated steak dinner without hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of tender, juicy steak and fresh, vibrant ingredients, you’re going to love this Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak. It combines the best of both worlds, with the savory richness of grilled flank steak and the refreshing burst of Caprese flavors, making it the perfect meal for any occasion.

The marinade for the flank steak is simple but impactful. Balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard create a tangy, slightly sweet flavor profile that infuses the steak with depth and complexity. The grilling process locks in that bold flavor, giving you a beautifully charred exterior and a juicy, tender interior.

What sets this recipe apart, though, is the fresh Caprese topping. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, while the mozzarella offers a creamy, mild contrast. Fresh basil brings in that fragrant, herbaceous note that ties everything together. Finally, the drizzle of balsamic glaze enhances the dish with a touch of sweetness and richness.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb flank steak
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (for drizzling)

Preparation:

Step 1: Begin by preparing the marinade for the flank steak. In a small bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.

Step 2: Place the flank steak in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal the dish or bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse the meat. For an even more flavorful steak, marinate it for up to 4 hours.

Step 3: While the steak is marinating, prepare the Caprese topping. In a small bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil leaves. Toss gently to combine, and set aside.

Step 4: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Grill the flank steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C).

Step 5: Once the steak is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.

Step 6: Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter. Top with the fresh Caprese mixture, and drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variation

This Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak is highly versatile and can be easily customized to fit dietary preferences or to suit what ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few creative variations:

For a Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, try adding some red pepper flakes to the marinade or sprinkling them on the steak before grilling. This will give the dish a delightful kick that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the balsamic and the creaminess of the mozzarella.

Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t include any wheat-based ingredients. However, if you’re using store-bought balsamic glaze, make sure to check that it is gluten-free, as some brands may include gluten-containing thickeners.

Vegetarian Twist: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the flank steak with grilled portobello mushrooms. The meaty texture of the mushrooms holds up well to the marinade and grilling process, and they soak up the balsamic flavors beautifully. You can also increase the amount of mozzarella and tomatoes for a more filling dish.

Add More Vegetables: If you’d like to make this dish even more hearty, you can add grilled vegetables to the Caprese topping. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even grilled onions would complement the fresh flavors of the mozzarella and tomatoes.

Dairy-Free Version: For a dairy-free variation, simply omit the mozzarella and opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative. There are many great plant-based cheese options available that will provide a similar creamy texture to the mozzarella.

With these simple tweaks, you can adjust the dish to fit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences while still enjoying all the flavors that make this steak so special.

How to Serve

This Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak is a wonderfully versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, sauces, and garnishes. Here are some ideas to serve alongside this flavorful meal:

Grilled Vegetables: For a complete, balanced meal, serve the flank steak with a side of grilled vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus are excellent choices, as their smoky flavors complement the rich steak and fresh Caprese topping. You can grill them alongside the steak for added convenience.

Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread is always a hit when paired with steak. It soaks up the delicious balsamic glaze and adds a savory touch that balances the freshness of the tomatoes and basil.

Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with arugula, spinach, or mixed greens would make a great side. Toss with a light lemon vinaigrette to complement the richness of the steak and the tangy balsamic vinegar.

Potatoes: Roasted or mashed potatoes would also make a perfect side dish to go with this steak. The creamy potatoes provide a comforting base that pairs well with the bold flavors of the grilled meat.

Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: The balsamic glaze is the final touch that brings the dish together. Don’t skip this step! The sweet and tangy glaze enhances the flavor of the steak and adds an elegant finish to the plate.

Recipe Tips

To ensure that your Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

Marinate for Flavor: The key to a flavorful steak is the marinade. Don’t rush this step! Allow the flank steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, marinating for a few hours or even overnight will make the steak even more tender and flavorful. The balsamic vinegar works its magic by infusing the meat with a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the grilled steak perfectly.

Rest the Steak After Grilling: Once you’ve finished grilling the steak, let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that the steak remains juicy and tender when you cut into it.

Grill Over Medium-High Heat: To get that perfect char and sear on your steak, grill it over medium-high heat. This will give the steak a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Make sure to monitor the cooking time closely to avoid overcooking the meat.

Slice Against the Grain: When it comes time to slice the steak, always slice against the grain. This helps to break down the muscle fibers and ensures that the steak is tender and easy to chew.

Customize the Caprese: If you’re a fan of other fresh ingredients, feel free to add them to the Caprese topping. Avocado, arugula, or even olives would add extra depth and flavor to the dish.

Cooking Note

• Preheat the Grill: Always make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the steak on it. This ensures a good sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
• Marination Time: Let the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for even better flavor, aim for 2-4 hours. Don’t marinate for more than 6 hours, as the vinegar’s acidity can start to break down the meat too much, making it mushy.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For the best results, use a meat thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, 140°F (60°C) for medium, and 150°F (66°C) for well-done.
• Let the Steak Rest: After grilling, allow the steak to rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
• Slice Against the Grain: Flank steak has long muscle fibers. Cutting against the grain shortens these fibers, making the steak more tender and easier to chew.
• Grilling Alternative: If you don’t have a grill, you can also use a stovetop grill pan or broiler. Just ensure your pan is preheated, and keep an eye on the steak so it doesn’t overcook.
• Balsamic Glaze: If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer balsamic vinegar on low heat until it reduces and thickens. This will give the glaze a richer flavor and a more satisfying consistency for drizzling over the steak.
• Serving Tip: Add the Caprese topping just before serving to preserve the freshness of the tomatoes and basil. This will also keep the mozzarella from melting too much and losing its creamy texture.

Nutritional Information:

Calories: 340
Protein: 31g
Sodium: 500mg

Details:

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marination time)
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marination)
Yield: 4 servings

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, while flank steak is ideal for this recipe due to its texture and flavor, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin steak. Just remember that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and cut of the meat. For thicker cuts, you may need to increase the grilling time or finish the steak in the oven.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The steak itself is best when grilled fresh, but you can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Additionally, you can prepare the Caprese topping in advance by chopping the tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil and refrigerating them. Just assemble the dish when you’re ready to serve.

3. How do I store leftovers?
If you have leftover steak, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The Caprese topping should be used immediately for the best flavor and texture, but you can refrigerate any leftover tomatoes and mozzarella separately. Reheat the steak by gently warming it in a skillet or microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.

4. Can I use a stovetop grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
Absolutely! A stovetop grill pan works just as well for cooking flank steak. Preheat the grill pan on medium-high heat and follow the same instructions for cooking the steak. Make sure to use a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and flip the steak just once for the perfect sear.

5. Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Yes, you can cook the flank steak in the oven. Preheat your broiler to high and place the steak on a broiler pan. Broil for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on your desired doneness. Make sure to keep an eye on it, as broiling can cook the steak quickly.

Conclusion

This Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak is the ultimate combination of bold flavors and fresh ingredients, making it the perfect dish to impress guests or enjoy with your family on a weeknight. The combination of juicy grilled steak, tangy balsamic vinegar, sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil is a true culinary delight. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table, offering both ease and elegance.

What’s wonderful about this recipe is how versatile it is. Whether you’re grilling it on a warm summer evening or making it for a cozy dinner indoors, the steak always turns out tender and full of flavor. Plus, with simple yet fresh ingredients, this dish feels both indulgent and light at the same time.

The Caprese topping adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak, making each bite a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy. The addition of balsamic glaze is the final touch that elevates the entire dish, creating a stunning presentation and an unforgettable flavor.

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