Hey there, food lovers! Are you ready for a flavor explosion that’s as easy as it is delicious? This Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak recipe is my absolute go-to for a summery weeknight dinner, or even a fancy get-together. Imagine this: tender, perfectly grilled flank steak, bursting with juicy flavor, topped with the classic combination of fresh mozzarella, vibrant tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Then, a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze ties it all together— pure perfection!
What makes this recipe so special? It’s the beautiful balance of flavors and textures. The slightly sweet and tangy balsamic glaze perfectly complements the savory steak, while the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes add a refreshing counterpoint. The fresh basil? It’s the cherry on top, adding that perfect pop of herby freshness. You’ll get a delightful mix of tender, slightly charred steak, soft cheese, and bursts of juicy tomato, all interwoven with the deep, rich balsamic notes. And the best part? It’s incredibly quick to prepare! From prep to plate, you’re looking at under 30 minutes, which means more time for enjoying your delicious meal with loved ones.
This recipe is perfect for those warm summer evenings when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It evokes a feeling of relaxed sophistication – a simple yet elegant meal that tastes like pure summer. It’s the kind of dish that impresses without requiring any complicated techniques. Seriously, you’re going to love this! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
What You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or can easily pick up at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Flank Steak (1.5 lbs): The lean and flavorful flank steak is the star of this show. Look for a well-marbled cut for optimal tenderness.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and flavor to the steak.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the steak and enhancing its natural flavors.
- Fresh Basil Leaves (1 cup): Adds a bright, herby, and slightly peppery flavor that beautifully complements the balsamic glaze and tomatoes.
- Fresh Tomatoes (2 large, ripe): Juicy, ripe tomatoes are crucial for this recipe. Choose your favorite variety – heirloom tomatoes offer a delightful mix of flavors and colors.
- Fresh Mozzarella (8 oz): The creamy, milky flavor of fresh mozzarella is a classic Caprese pairing. Choose a good quality ball of mozzarella for the best taste.
- Balsamic Glaze (1/4 cup): The star ingredient that adds the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavor. Look for a high-quality balsamic glaze for the best taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! This recipe is surprisingly straightforward, even for beginner grillers. Follow these steps for a perfect Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak:
- Prepare the Steak: Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear. Season generously on both sides with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
- Marinate (Optional): For extra flavor, you can marinate the steak in olive oil and a little extra balsamic vinegar for 30 minutes before grilling. This step is completely optional but highly recommended.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill will give you those beautiful grill marks.
- Grill the Steak: Place the steak on the preheated grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches your preferred internal temperature (130-135°F for medium-rare).
- Rest the Steak: Once cooked, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Prepare the Caprese Salad: While the steak rests, slice the tomatoes and mozzarella into thin slices. Arrange the basil leaves on a serving platter.
- Assemble and Serve: Slice the rested steak thinly against the grain. Arrange the steak slices on top of the basil leaves. Top with the tomato and mozzarella slices. Drizzle generously with balsamic glaze and serve immediately.
Pro Tip: For even cooking, try to use a grill with consistent heat. If your grill has hot spots, move the steak around to ensure it cooks evenly.
Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak, here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t overcrowd the grill: Give your steak enough space to cook evenly. If you overcrowd the grill, the temperature will drop, and your steak might not sear properly.
- Use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure your steak is cooked to your liking is to use a meat thermometer. This eliminates guesswork and ensures perfect results every time.
- Let the steak rest: Resist the urge to slice into the steak immediately after grilling. Allowing it to rest is crucial for retaining its juices and achieving maximum tenderness.
- Choose ripe tomatoes: The flavor of your Caprese salad depends heavily on the quality of your tomatoes. Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best taste and texture.
- Use high-quality balsamic glaze: A good balsamic glaze will make a noticeable difference in the final flavor of your dish. Don’t skimp on this ingredient!
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with this recipe and make it your own! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
- Add some spice: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the steak seasoning or incorporate some chili flakes into the balsamic glaze.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the flank steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or halloumi cheese for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like burrata or fresh ricotta for a unique twist on the classic Caprese combination.
- Add some roasted vegetables: Roast some vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini and add them to the platter for a heartier meal.
- Herb variations: Try adding other fresh herbs like oregano or thyme alongside the basil for a more complex flavor profile.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the steak in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry out the steak. Reheating the steak separately from the Caprese salad is best to preserve the texture of the vegetables and cheese. The balsamic glaze can be stored separately and added just before serving.
Freezing is generally not recommended for this recipe as it can significantly alter the texture of the steak and the freshness of the Caprese salad. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different cut of steak? A: While flank steak is ideal due to its flavor and texture, you can try other lean cuts like sirloin or skirt steak. Adjust the grilling time accordingly.
Q: How long does the balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak last? A: It’s best served immediately after preparation, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I grill this steak indoors? A: You can use an indoor grill pan to achieve a similar result, although the char marks might not be as pronounced.
Q: What if I don’t have balsamic glaze? A: You can substitute with a reduction of balsamic vinegar, but the flavor will be slightly different. Simmer balsamic vinegar over low heat until it thickens.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use gluten-free balsamic glaze (always check the label).
The Final Word
This Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak recipe is a true winner! The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine, and the ease of preparation makes it perfect for any occasion. It’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make. The fresh ingredients shine through, creating a dish that tastes like summer on a plate. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to impress yourself (and your guests!) with this incredibly flavorful and satisfying meal.
I’d love to hear what you think! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your photos on social media! Happy grilling!
Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak
Equipment
- Grill Gas or charcoal grill recommended
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Steak
- 1 pound Flank steak
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
Caprese Salad
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved
- 4 ounces Fresh mozzarella Sliced
- 2 tablespoons Fresh basil leaves Roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons Balsamic glaze
Instructions
- Prepare the flank steak: Pat the steak dry and rub with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the steak: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness.
- Rest the steak: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the caprese salad: In a bowl, gently toss together the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and basil leaves.
- Assemble the dish: Slice the rested steak against the grain. Top the steak slices with the caprese salad.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the caprese salad and steak.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!