Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is a mouthwatering dish that combines the rich flavors of grilled steak with fresh, vibrant ingredients. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. The combination of balsamic marinade, juicy flank steak, blistered tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella creates a delightful taste experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Bursting with Flavor: The balsamic marinade infuses the steak with a delicious tang, complemented by the freshness of tomatoes and basil.
• Versatile Dish: Serve this as a main course or slice it thinly for a tasty salad topping or sandwich filling.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients from fresh vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving the perfect char on your flank steak and blistering tomatoes.
• Mixing bowl: Needed for combining the marinade ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk: Helps to blend the marinade thoroughly for maximum flavor infusion.

Ingredients

Grilled balsamic-marinated steak with blistered tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 large clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Steak

• 2 pounds flank steak

For the Salad Topping

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, thinly sliced

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Mix together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Place the flank steak in half of the prepared marinade and refrigerate overnight.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Grill over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes per side or until your desired level of doneness is achieved. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Grill the Tomatoes

Grill the cherry tomatoes until lightly charred, about 3-5 minutes. Alternatively, you can blister them in a heavy-bottom skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Slice the steak thinly against the grain. Top with blistered tomatoes, diced mozzarella, fresh basil, and drizzle with the remaining marinade. Serve immediately for best flavor.

How to Serve Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

Serving your Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

On a Platter

• Arrange the sliced flank steak in a circular pattern, topped with blistered tomatoes and diced mozzarella. Garnish with fresh basil for a vibrant presentation.

In Tacos

• Use small tortillas to create beef tacos. Add the flank steak, tomatoes, and mozzarella, then drizzle with balsamic reduction for a flavorful twist.

Over a Salad

• Serve the steak on a bed of mixed greens topped with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella. Drizzle with extra balsamic vinaigrette for added flavor.

As a Sandwich

• Slice the flank steak and layer it in crusty bread with fresh basil and mozzarella. This makes for a delightful sandwich perfect for lunch or dinner.

As an Appetizer

• Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces and serve them on skewers along with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. A great finger food option!

How to Perfect Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

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

• Marinate Overnight: Allowing the flank steak to marinate overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh basil, mozzarella, and ripe cherry tomatoes to bring out the best flavors.
• Let It Rest: After grilling, let the steak rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
• Grill on High Heat: A hot grill creates perfect char marks while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain of the meat results in more tender slices.
• Experiment with Marinades: Don’t hesitate to tweak the marinade ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

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

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with the steak.
3. Caprese Salad: A fresh caprese salad made of sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is a perfect match.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide color and flavor that enhances any meal.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the steak.
6. French Bread: Warm slices of crusty French bread are ideal for soaking up any remaining marinade or juices from the steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you avoid these errors:

• Using low-quality steak: The quality of the flank steak is crucial for tenderness and flavor. Always choose a high-quality cut for the best results.

• Skipping the marinade time: Marinating the steak overnight enhances its flavor. If you’re short on time, at least let it marinate for 30 minutes to ensure some absorption.

• Not letting the steak rest: Allowing the grilled steak to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking helps retain its juices. Skipping this step may result in a dry texture.

• Overcooking the tomatoes: Blistering cherry tomatoes should be done carefully. Overcooking can make them mushy, so keep an eye on them while grilling or in the skillet.

• Neglecting to slice against the grain: Cutting the steak against the grain ensures each piece is tender. Make sure to identify the grain direction before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure that the steak is cooled before sealing it in a container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the bags with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place slices of steak on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through, being careful not to overcook.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Add slices of steak and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese unique?

Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese combines rich flavors from marinated flank steak with fresh ingredients like mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal, you can substitute with skirt steak or even chicken if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I know when my flank steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer! A temperature of 130°F (54°C) indicates medium-rare doneness. Adjust according to your preference for doneness.

Can I prepare Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese ahead of time?

Definitely! You can marinate the steak a day in advance and grill it just before serving. This allows flavors to deepen while saving you time on serving day.

Final Thoughts

Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese offers an incredible blend of flavors that are sure to impress at any gathering. Its versatility allows for customization; feel free to add more vegetables or swap out cheeses based on your preferences. Enjoy this delightful dish as part of your next meal!

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Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is a show-stopping dish that blends the smoky richness of perfectly grilled flank steak with the freshness of blistered tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This recipe is ideal for any summer barbecue or family dinner, delivering a delightful burst of flavors in every bite. The balsamic marinade adds a tangy depth to the steak while the vibrant salad toppings create a beautiful presentation sure to impress your guests. Enjoy this versatile dish as a main course, in tacos, or even as an appetizer – perfect for any occasion.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds flank steak
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella, diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade by mixing balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the flank steak in half of the mixture for at least 30 minutes or preferably overnight.
3. Grill the steak over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes per side until desired doneness is reached. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
4. Grill cherry tomatoes until lightly charred (about 3-5 minutes).
5. Assemble by topping sliced steak with grilled tomatoes, diced mozzarella, and fresh basil. Drizzle with remaining marinade and serve immediately.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 85g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider using aged balsamic vinegar. Customize by adding other veggies like arugula or avocado. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.