Prepare to experience a delightful summer meal with this Grilled Flank Steak with Balsamic Caprese Twist. Imagine the sizzle of a bold, juicy steak on the grill, infusing the air with an irresistible aroma. Pair this with a caprese-inspired topping that brings together the vibrant flavors of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This dish is a culinary symphony that elevates your regular steak night to an extraordinary dining experience. The good news is, despite its gourmet appeal, this dish is incredibly simple to create. The balsamic marinade introduces a savory complexity to the steak, while the fresh topping adds a refreshing note, making each bite a perfect balance. With the grilling season in full swing, there’s no better time to whip up this delectable meal. The juiciness of the steak combined with the richness of the caprese ensemble ensures it’s not only a feast for your taste buds but a visual delight as well. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or planning a relaxed dinner under the stars, this recipe promises to be the showstopper at your gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Flank Steak with Balsamic Caprese Twist
This recipe is perfect for a variety of occasions, and here’s why:
- Flavorful Fusion: Combines the savory taste of grilled steak with the fresh, zesty caprese topping.
- Easy Preparation: Marinating is quick, and grilling takes only moments, providing more time for relaxation.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh, wholesome components like tomatoes and basil.
- Stunning Presentation: Its colorful and appealing look makes it a dinner party favorite.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you begin grilling your Flank Steak with Balsamic Caprese Twist, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and grilling space to ensure a smooth cooking process. Start by clearing your countertops and setting out all ingredients. Having everything within easy reach will make the cooking process seamless. You’ll want to have a large dish or zip-top bag ready for marinating the steak, as this step is crucial for infusing those rich flavors. A good quality grill, whether charcoal or gas, is vital for achieving that perfect sear on your steak; ensure it’s clean pre-grilling. You’ll also need a grilling basket or pan for the cherry tomatoes, allowing their skins to blister beautifully without slipping through the grill grates. A sharp knife is important for slicing the steak thinly against the grain, ensuring tenderness. Lastly, have a serving platter ready for presentation, as the grandeur of this dish lies in its final assembled form.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 6, and you’ll need the following for a perfect execution:
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 lbs flank steak
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (whole)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, diced
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, thinly sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Marinade
To craft a flavorful marinade, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and extra virgin olive oil in a medium-sized bowl. Make sure the mixture is well blended, creating a smooth and cohesive sauce, which will enhance the flavor of your steak incredibly.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Place your flank steak into a large dish or zip-top bag. Pour half of the prepared marinade over the steak, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish, placing it into the refrigerator to marinate overnight. This soaking time allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste dramatically.
Step 3: Grill the Steak
Preheat your grill to a medium-high setting, ensuring it reaches an optimal temperature for cooking. Remove the steak from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for 3–5 minutes on each side according to your preferred doneness. Once grilled, allow the steak to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful steak.
Step 4: Char the Tomatoes
Using a grill basket or pan, place the cherry tomatoes over medium-high heat. Grill them for around 3–5 minutes, or until their skins start to blister. Charring intensifies their natural sweetness, balancing out the savory elements of the dish.
Step 5: Assemble & Serve
Once your steak has rested, slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and top with charred tomatoes, diced mozzarella, and fresh basil. For the final flourish, drizzle the remaining marinade over the top. You’re ready to serve this stunning and delicious meal.
Variations
- Protein: Swap the flank steak for chicken breast or a veg-friendly option like grilled portobello mushrooms for a different protein source.
- Vegetables: Add grilled zucchini or bell peppers to the mix if you desire more veggies.
- Spices: Introduce some heat with a dash of chili flakes or cajun seasoning in the marinade for an extra kick.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the steak is at room temperature before grilling to allow even cooking throughout.
- Don’t skip the resting step – this makes a significant difference in the final texture and flavor of the steak.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the dish with a crisp white wine or a light red to complement the flavors beautifully.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches the desired level of doneness, typically 130°F for medium-rare.
- Leftover steak is excellent for wraps or salads the next day, providing delicious versatility.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus overnight marination)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: Approx. 30 minutes (excluding marination)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 420 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 450mg
FAQs
Can I prepare the steak without a grill?
Yes, you can use a stovetop grill pan or broil the steak in the oven if a grill isn’t available.
How can I tell when my steak is perfectly cooked?
A meat thermometer is best. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
The steak and marinade can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble just before serving for the freshest taste.
Is there a vegan alternative to this recipe?
Portobello mushrooms make an excellent substitution for steak, and vegan mozzarella can be used to make a plant-based version.
Conclusion
This Grilled Flank Steak with Balsamic Caprese Twist is not just another dinner option—it’s a flavorful experience that captures the essence of summer grilling. Perfectly marinated and grilled steak topped with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil creates a fusion of tastes that is bound to impress. Invite your friends and family to enjoy this dish and experiment with the variations to suit different dietary preferences. Encourage them to leave comments on how their version turned out and share this recipe with fellow food enthusiasts eager to try something new. As you relish this meal, consider it an expression of culinary art that transforms simple gatherings into memorable occasions.
Print
Grilled Flank Steak with Balsamic Caprese Twist
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Grilled Flank Steak with Balsamic Caprese Twist is a delightful summer meal, showcasing bold flavors and a colorful presentation.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 lbs flank steak
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (whole)
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella, diced
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Mix the Marinade: Whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and extra virgin olive oil in a medium-sized bowl.
- Marinate the Steak: Place your flank steak into a large dish or zip-top bag and pour half of the marinade over it. Refrigerate overnight.
- Grill the Steak: Preheat your grill and cook the steak for 3–5 minutes on each side. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Char the Tomatoes: Grill the cherry tomatoes for 3–5 minutes until blistered.
- Assemble & Serve: Slice the steak thinly, top with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, and drizzle the remaining marinade over the top.
Notes
Ensure steak is at room temperature before grilling for even cooking. Don’t skip the resting step for optimal flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Protein: 35 g