If you’re craving a dish that somehow manages to be both elegantly fresh and satisfyingly hearty, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe. Imagine tender, juicy flank steak perfectly grilled and kissed by a tangy balsamic marinade, topped with sweet cherry tomatoes, melty mozzarella, and fragrant fresh basil. It’s a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures that come together like a culinary love story, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next barbecue.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe lies in its simplicity and fresh ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and creating that irresistible Caprese-inspired touch. The ingredients are straightforward yet essential for achieving the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and creamy notes.
- 1 lb flank steak: A lean cut packed with flavor and ideal for marinating and grilling to juicy perfection.
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: Brings a rich, tangy sweetness that tenderizes the steak and adds depth.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps create a luscious marinade and keeps the steak moist during grilling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that complements the balsamic beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Provides a subtle heat that wakes up the palate.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Offers a burst of juicy sweetness and color to the dish.
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced: Melts to creamy perfection atop the steak, bringing mild richness.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Infuses the plate with a fresh, herbaceous aroma and taste.
How to Make Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This simple marinade is the heart of this recipe, transforming the flank steak into a tender, flavor-packed masterpiece. The acid in the balsamic vinegar tenderizes while infusing the meat with that signature tang.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Place the flank steak into a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it, making sure the steak is fully coated. Seal the bag tightly and pop it in the fridge. The longer, the better—ideally at least one hour, but if you can swing overnight, your steak will be unbeatable in flavor and juiciness.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature will give the steak a wonderful sear, locking in those rich juices and creating a slightly charred, smoky crust that’s downright irresistible.
Step 4: Grill the Steak
Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any extra drip off so you avoid flare-ups. Grill it for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side for a succulent medium-rare finish. If you like yours a bit more done, just adjust the cooking time slightly. This step is the climax where the marinade caramelizes, creating complex flavors.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Mozzarella
During the final minute of grilling, quickly layer the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced mozzarella on top of the steak. Close the grill lid to let the cheese soften and slightly melt—this lush creaminess paired with the vibrant tomatoes elevates this dish from great to unforgettable.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Once off the grill, let your steak rest for about 5 minutes. Resting lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice stays moist and tender. Slice thinly against the grain, then plate with fresh basil leaves for that pop of color and freshness that defines the Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe.
How to Serve Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are non-negotiable here, adding a peppery, aromatic note that complements every bite. For an extra touch of brightness, drizzle a little more balsamic vinegar or a splash of good-quality olive oil over the plated steak. If you want to get fancy, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving amps up the texture beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides to keep the meal balanced. Consider serving it alongside a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, garlic roasted baby potatoes, or even grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini. The goal is to complement the rich, tangy steak without overpowering its vibrant flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation up a notch by arranging the sliced steak on a wooden cutting board layered with basil and tomato slices. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added visual appeal and taste complexity. Alternatively, serve it family-style on a large platter for a convivial sharing experience—nothing beats gathering around for a festive meal full of fresh, flavorful bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your leftover Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe tasting fresh, store the steak slices separately from the mozzarella and tomatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, the cheese won’t soak into the meat, maintaining better texture for your next meal.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze marinated flank steak before grilling—just place it in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling as usual. Avoid freezing after cooking with the mozzarella and tomatoes, as the texture will be compromised.
Reheating
Reheat steak slices gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a warm oven to prevent drying out. Add the mozzarella and tomatoes during the last minute of reheating to melt the cheese again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the steak tough and cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its flavor and texture, skirt steak or hanger steak can also work beautifully. Just adjust cooking times as those cuts may be thinner or thicker.
How long should I marinate the steak for best results?
For a tender, deeply flavored steak, marinating for at least one hour is essential, but overnight is best to really let the balsamic and garlic work their magic.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can recreate the Caprese topping with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu steaks seasoned similarly, topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a delicious vegetarian twist.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the steak a day ahead and slice the mozzarella and halve the tomatoes in advance too, making your grilling and assembly super quick and stress-free.
What wine pairs well with Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe?
A medium-bodied red like a Chianti or a Sangiovese pairs wonderfully, as their acidity complements the balsamic tang while standing up to the steak’s richness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to brighten up your grilling routine with a combination of fresh flavors and hearty satisfaction, the Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough to impress anyone at your table. Once you try it, I promise it’ll become one of those go-to recipes you turn to again and again. Happy grilling, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak is a flavorful and elegant dish combining tender, marinated flank steak grilled to perfection, topped with fresh cherry tomatoes, melted mozzarella, and aromatic basil. The balsamic marinade adds a tangy depth that pairs beautifully with the classic Caprese ingredients, making it an ideal meal for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
Steak and Marinade
- 1 lb flank steak
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Steak: Place the flank steak in a resealable bag, pour the marinade over it, seal tightly, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F, ensuring it is clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and place it on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness, adjusting time based on your preferred level.
- Add Caprese Toppings: During the last minute of grilling, top the steak with halved cherry tomatoes and slices of fresh mozzarella. Close the grill lid for a minute to gently melt the cheese.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice thinly against the grain and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the steak overnight to maximize flavor infusion.
- Adjust grilling times based on steak thickness and desired doneness.
- You can substitute mozzarella with burrata for a creamier texture.
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
- Always slice flank steak against the grain to keep the meat tender.
