Nothing beats the perfect harmony of flavors in the Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe. Juicy, tender flank steak kissed by the grill is paired with a fresh and vibrant Caprese topping made of cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all enlivened by a sweet balsamic glaze. This dish brilliantly combines simplicity with elegance, making it an absolute showstopper whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends. Every bite bursts with color, texture, and mouthwatering flavor that you’ll want to enjoy again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is straightforward yet essential, working together to create a taste sensation. From the rich, savory meat to the garden-fresh tomatoes and herbs, every item adds its own magic to the final dish.
- 1 lb flank steak: The star of the dish, lean with great flavor and perfect for grilling.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and helps create a marinade that locks in flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a subtle pungency that enhances the beef’s taste.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle tang and depth to the marinade.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: The simplest seasoning to elevate and balance the flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy, they add vibrant color and freshness.
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved: Creamy and mild, these provide a soft contrast to the meat.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped: For an aromatic, herbaceous note that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (for drizzling): A luscious finish with a sweet-tart punch.
How to Make Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start your culinary journey by whisking together olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This simple marinade is packed with flavor and essential to infusing the flank steak with a beautiful savory aroma that will tempt your senses even before the grill heats up.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Place the flank steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over it, making sure every inch is coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours—this resting time lets the flavors sink deep into the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Fire up your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F. This temperature is perfect for getting that fantastic sear on the steak’s surface while locking in the juices. A hot grill is key to achieving those beautiful grill marks and robust flavor.
Step 4: Grill the Steak
Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side, depending on your preferred doneness—medium-rare to medium works beautifully here. Use a meat thermometer to gauge: 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium. This careful attention guarantees a tender and perfectly cooked steak every time.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once grilled, let the steak rest for 5 minutes to let the juices redistribute inside. Then, slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. This step is essential for a fork-tender bite that melts in your mouth.
Step 6: Prepare the Caprese Topping
While the steak rests, toss together halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil in a bowl. This vibrant caprese topping adds freshness, creaminess, and a lovely herbal touch that perfectly complements the smoky steak.
Step 7: Serve
Arrange your sliced flank steak on a platter and generously pile the caprese mixture on top. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze to introduce a rich, glossy sweetness that pulls every element of this dish together.
How to Serve Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe
Garnishes
To enhance the vibrant flavors of your Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe, consider adding a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top. A light scattering of flaky sea salt can also elevate the textures and bring out the natural sweetness of the balsamic glaze.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides like a crisp arugula salad or garlic roasted potatoes. You can also serve it alongside grilled or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini, which complement the rich steak without overwhelming the delicate caprese flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the steak and caprese topping on a wooden cutting board or rustic platter. You might also offer individual portions on small plates with a mini balsamic drizzle artistically swirled around. This not only looks fantastic but makes your Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe feel extra special for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store your sliced steak and caprese topping separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the textures and flavors intact, especially preventing the mozzarella and tomatoes from becoming soggy.
Freezing
While the flank steak itself can be frozen after cooking, the caprese topping does not freeze well due to the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes. For best results, freeze the steak slices alone in a freezer-safe container or bag and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to use.
Reheating
To reheat the steak without drying it out, use a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth, covered to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the steak tender and juicy. Add the fresh caprese topping after reheating to preserve its vibrant, fresh quality.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its rich flavor and texture, skirt steak or hanger steak can be wonderful alternatives. Just adjust the grilling time accordingly to ensure perfect doneness.
How long should I marinate the steak?
For optimal flavor, marinate the flank steak for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, 3 to 4 hours will deepen the marinade’s impact without compromising texture.
Is balsamic glaze necessary, or can I use regular balsamic vinegar?
Balsamic glaze provides a thicker, sweeter finish that looks beautiful drizzled over the dish. If you only have balsamic vinegar, reduce it down over low heat to create a similar syrupy consistency before drizzling.
Can this recipe be made indoors without a grill?
Yes! A hot grill pan or cast-iron skillet works wonderfully indoors to achieve a great sear and flavor. Just be sure to preheat the pan well for the best results.
What wine pairs well with the Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe?
A medium-bodied red wine such as a Chianti or a Sangiovese complements the rich beef and fresh caprese elements beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that balances hearty grill flavor with bright, fresh ingredients, the Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe is your new secret weapon. It’s simple to prepare, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself. Give this recipe a try—you’ll find it hard not to make it again and again.
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Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 24 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak recipe combines tender, marinated flank steak grilled to perfection with a fresh and vibrant Caprese topping of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil, finished with a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze for an elegant and flavorful meal perfect for dinner gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Steak and Marinade
- 1 lb flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Caprese Topping
- 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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade for the steak.
- Marinate the Steak: Place the flank steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the steak is evenly coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 4 hours to develop flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F, making sure it is properly warmed for an ideal sear.
- Grill the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill the flank steak for 5-7 minutes per side, depending on your preferred level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature: 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium.
- Rest and Slice: Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
- Prepare the Caprese Topping: In a bowl, gently combine the halved cherry tomatoes, halved mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil to create a fresh and colorful topping.
- Serve: Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter, top it with the prepared Caprese mixture, and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately for best flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Marinating the steak longer than 1 hour, up to 4 hours, intensifies the flavor but avoid exceeding 4 hours to prevent the acidity from breaking down the meat too much.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure steak reaches your desired doneness for perfect results every time.
- Letting the steak rest after grilling is crucial for juicy and tender slices.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with arugula or spinach for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Leftover steak can be stored for up to 3 days refrigerated and served cold or reheated gently.
