If you love the rich, layered flavors of Italian cuisine combined with the robust heartiness of grilled steak, then you are in for a real treat with the Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe. This dish brings together the tangy sweetness of balsamic vinegar, the juicy freshness of ripe cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella melted to perfection on succulent grilled flank steak. It’s the perfect marriage of smoky, savory, and bright flavors that will have you craving it again and again. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, this recipe is a sure winner that’s as beautiful on the plate as it is delicious on the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simplicity and letting each ingredient shine. From the steak to the fresh basil, every component plays a crucial role in building vibrant layers of flavor, color, and texture.
- 1 lb flank steak: A lean, flavorful cut that grills beautifully and soaks up marinades well.
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: Adds a rich, tangy sweetness that tenderizes and flavors the meat.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps balance the acidity and keeps the steak juicy.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant, savory depth to the marinade.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors and seasons the steak perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursting with sweet freshness, they bring bright color and juiciness.
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced: Melts tenderly over the steak, creating a creamy contrast.
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds a fragrant, herbaceous finish that is iconic to Caprese dishes.
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 combination forms the flavorful marinade that tenderizes the steak while infusing it with that classic sweet and tangy Italian essence.
Step 2: Marinate the flank steak
Place your flank steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour in the marinade, making sure the meat is completely coated. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour, though letting it sit overnight will give you even more depth of flavor and a wonderfully tender texture.
Step 3: Preheat the grill
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat—aim for about 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This heat level is perfect for creating a nice sear and caramelization on the flank steak without drying it out.
Step 4: Grill the steak
Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off so it doesn’t cause flare-ups on the grill. Grill the steak for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side for a perfect medium-rare. This timing locks in the juices while achieving a delicious crust.
Step 5: Add tomatoes and mozzarella
Just before the steak is done, top it with the halved cherry tomatoes and slices of fresh mozzarella. Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt slightly—this creates a heavenly blend of creamy and fresh textures on top of the smoky, rich steak.
Step 6: Rest and slice the steak
Once off the grill, allow the steak to rest for five minutes to let all the juices redistribute. Then slice against the grain to keep each bite tender, and garnish with fresh basil leaves for that classic caprese flair.
How to Serve Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are essential for cutting through the richness and lending that unmistakable aroma that screams Caprese. You can also drizzle a little extra balsamic glaze over the top for added sweetness and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair this steak with simple, light sides like a crisp arugula salad, garlic roasted potatoes, or grilled vegetables. These options complement the bold flavors without overpowering the steak’s robust profile.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving slices of this steak on a platter scattered with extra cherry tomatoes, basil sprigs, and perhaps a few balsamic pearls or a balsamic reduction drizzle for a stunning centerpiece. Another fun idea is to pile the steak and Caprese toppings onto crusty bread for an irresistible open-faced sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover steak and toppings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually meld more beautifully after resting overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze the grilled flank steak separately from the tomatoes and mozzarella for up to two months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use a vacuum-sealed bag to preserve freshness. It’s best to add fresh toppings after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat without losing juiciness, warm the steak gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven wrapped in foil. Add fresh mozzarella and tomatoes just before serving to maintain their texture and freshness.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for its flavor and texture, skirt steak or sirloin can also work well. Just adjust the grilling time slightly depending on thickness and cut.
Is it necessary to marinate the steak overnight?
Not at all, but marinating for at least one hour helps tenderize and infuse flavor. Overnight is recommended if you have the time to deepen those amazing balsamic and garlic notes.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes! A grill pan or broiler works well as an alternative to an outdoor grill. Just watch carefully to avoid overcooking and try to get a nice sear for that grilled taste.
What is the best way to slice flank steak?
Slicing against the grain—the direction of the muscle fibers—is essential for tenderness. This means cutting perpendicular to the long lines you see running across the meat.
How do I prevent the mozzarella from melting too much?
Adding the cheese during the last minute on the grill with the lid closed will melt it slightly without turning it completely gooey, preserving its fresh, creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give this Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe a try soon because it’s a total crowd-pleaser and a marriage of some of the best flavors out there. It’s straightforward, quick enough for weeknights, yet special enough to impress any guest. Once you’ve tasted this vibrant combination of tangy balsamic, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and smoky steak, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to recipes. Happy grilling!
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Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 31 minutes
- 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 marinated, grilled flank steak topped with fresh cherry tomatoes, melted mozzarella, and basil. The steak is infused with a tangy balsamic garlic marinade and cooked to a perfect medium-rare, then finished on the grill with Caprese-inspired toppings for a deliciously fresh and savory meal.
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 and Garnish
- 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 fully combined to create a flavorful marinade for the steak.
- Marinate the Steak: Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though marinating overnight is preferable to maximize flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, approximately 400°F, ensuring it is clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, then place it on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, aiming for medium-rare doneness to maintain juiciness and tenderness.
- Add Caprese Toppings: During the last minute of grilling, top the steak with the halved cherry tomatoes and slices of fresh mozzarella. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt slightly over the steak and tomatoes.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice the steak against the grain and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate the steak overnight if time permits.
- Make sure to slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Use fresh mozzarella for optimal melting and flavor.
- Adjust grilling time depending on your preferred level of doneness.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop.
