Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak

The Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of grilled steak with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or an elegant dinner with friends and family. With its juicy texture and vibrant flavors, it’s bound to impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal prep time and simple ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of balsamic glaze, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella elevates the taste, creating a delicious experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether served as a main course at dinner or sliced for sandwiches at lunch, this recipe fits any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this flank steak dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful display of ingredients makes it visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make this flavorful Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak, having the right tools on hand will simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Resealable plastic bag
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the ideal cooking environment for achieving perfect grill marks and flavor.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your flank steak is cooked to the desired doneness without guesswork.

Ingredients

For the Steak 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 Salad 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Place the flank steak in a resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the steak and seal the bag. Refrigerate for 1 to 4 hours to allow flavors to infuse.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high heat. This level of heat will help sear the steak nicely while keeping it juicy.

Step 4: Cook the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade and place it on the hot grill. Cook for about 5–7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 130°F for medium-rare.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain. This resting period allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Step 6: Make the Caprese Salad Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Arrange slices of grilled flank steak on a platter. Top them with the Caprese salad mixture and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately for best flavor and presentation.

How to Serve Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak

Serving Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak is all about enhancing its delicious flavors while keeping it simple. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests and elevate your dining experience.

On a Platter

• Arrange the grilled flank steak slices on a beautiful platter. This presentation adds elegance, making it perfect for gatherings.

With Fresh Salad

• Serve the steak alongside a mixed green salad. The crisp greens balance the richness of the steak, creating a refreshing contrast.

Topped with Extra Balsamic Glaze

• Drizzle additional balsamic glaze over the top before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

In Tacos

• Slice the steak and serve it in warm tortillas with fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a fun twist.

As Sandwiches

• Use thin slices of steak in sandwiches with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a delightful lunch option.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the steak with seasonal grilled vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers. This combination brings out vibrant flavors.

How to Perfect Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak

To ensure your Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the steak marinate for at least 4 hours enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect doneness, check the internal temperature; aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
• Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the meat to rest for 5 minutes retains its juices, leading to a more flavorful bite.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain ensures each slice is tender and easy to chew.
• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes elevates the dish’s overall taste.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like oregano or thyme to the marinade for additional flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak

Pairing side dishes with your Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic provide comfort and richness that pairs well with steak.
2. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that balances the meal.
3. Caprese Salad
   Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with olive oil mirror the flavors in your main dish.
4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers a nutritious option that complements the heartiness of steak.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy Brussels sprouts bring a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that works well alongside grilled meat.
6. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob is a classic summer side that brings brightness and sweetness to your plate.
7. French Fries
   Crispy fries provide a comforting crunch that everyone loves, making them an excellent choice for casual dining.
8. Coleslaw
   A zesty coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess, enhancing your meal’s overall freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating the flank steak for at least 1 hour enhances its flavor and tenderness. Aim for a longer marination of up to 4 hours for best results.
• Overcooking the steak: Cooking flank steak too long can make it tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for medium-rare (130°F) to medium (145°F).
• Skipping resting time: Allowing the grilled steak to rest for 5 minutes before slicing is crucial. This lets juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
• Ignoring slicing technique: Always slice flank steak against the grain. This helps break down muscle fibers, making each piece more tender and enjoyable.
• Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters! Ensure your tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil are fresh to enhance the overall taste of your Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak

• Wrap the grilled steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container for better protection.
• The steak can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Slice the steak before placing it on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and warm slices of steak for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak?

Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak is a delicious dish that combines juicy flank steak with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a balsamic glaze.

How do I know when my flank steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer for accurate results; aim for 130°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium doneness.

Can I use other cuts of beef besides flank steak?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal due to its flavor and texture, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin as alternatives.

How should I serve Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak?

Serve this dish as a main course with your favorite sides or on top of a salad for a light meal option.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the steak in advance and grill it just before serving. This dish works great for meal prep!

Final Thoughts

Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak is not only flavorful but also versatile, making it an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and elegant dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding different herbs or using variations of cheese. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delightful combination of flavors!

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Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak

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Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak is a mouthwatering dish that harmonizes the savory essence of grilled flank steak with the freshness of ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts or a sophisticated dinner gathering, guaranteed to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and stunning presentation. The juicy steak, marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard, pairs beautifully with the Caprese topping drizzled in balsamic glaze. Simple yet elegant, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutritional goodness.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb flank steak
• 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, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the flank steak in the mixture for 1-4 hours in a resealable bag.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the marinated steak for about 5–7 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare.
5. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
6. Combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil in a bowl; toss gently.
7. Serve sliced steak topped with the Caprese salad mixture and drizzle with balsamic glaze.

• Author: Adriana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 325
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For enhanced flavor and tenderness, marinate the steak for up to four hours. Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness. Fresh ingredients will elevate your dish; opt for high-quality mozzarella and ripe tomatoes.