Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that perfectly blends the richness of grilled steak with the freshness of caprese ingredients. This recipe is ideal for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or a cozy dinner at home. The balsamic marinade infuses the flank steak with deep, tangy notes, while the blistered tomatoes and mozzarella add delightful textures. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this impressive meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dish quickly.
• Bursting with Flavor: The balsamic marinade and fresh ingredients create a mouthwatering combination that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish, in sandwiches, or on salads for versatile meal ideas.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh produce, this recipe offers both nutrition and taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these items on hand will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavors in the flank steak.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your marinade ingredients evenly.
• Whisk: Helps blend the marinade smoothly for even flavor distribution.
• Knife: Used for slicing the rested steak against the grain for tender pieces.

Ingredients

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 Main Dish

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

How to Make Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

1. Place the flank steak in half of the prepared marinade.
2. Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to develop.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

1. Remove the flank steak from the marinade and shake off any excess.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. Grill the steak for 3-5 minutes per side until it reaches your desired doneness.
4. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Grill the Tomatoes

1. While the steak rests, grill cherry tomatoes until lightly charred (about 3-5 minutes).
2. Alternatively, blister them in a heavy-bottom skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Slice the rested flank steak thinly against the grain.
2. Top each serving with blistered tomatoes, diced mozzarella, and fresh basil.
3. Drizzle with remaining marinade before serving immediately.

Enjoy your flavorful Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese as a perfect centerpiece for any meal!

How to Serve Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

Serving Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this dish.

On a Platter

• Arrange the sliced steak, tomatoes, and mozzarella on a large platter. Drizzle with extra balsamic for an appealing presentation.

In Tacos

• Use warm tortillas and fill them with steak, blistered tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil for a tasty twist.

Over a Salad

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

As a Sandwich

• Layer the grilled flank steak and toppings between slices of crusty bread for a delicious sandwich option.

With Pasta

• Toss the sliced steak with pasta, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella. Add olive oil and basil for an Italian-inspired meal.

How to Perfect Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

To achieve the best results when making Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Overnight: Allowing the flank steak to marinate overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness.

• Grill at Medium-High Heat: This temperature ensures a nice char while keeping the inside juicy.

• Let It Rest: After grilling, let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices.

• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain makes the meat more tender and easier to chew.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and basil elevate this dish’s flavors significantly.

Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

Pairing side dishes with Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice; serve warm slices of garlic bread to soak up any extra balsamic marinade.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables add nutrition and flavor, complementing the steak beautifully.

3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with olive oil make a perfect companion to your main dish.

4. Risotto: A creamy risotto can balance out the grilled flavors while adding richness to your plate.

5. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious quinoa salad packed with veggies offers a healthy contrast to the hearty steak.

6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus brings a fresh crunch that pairs well with the savory flavors of the steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the outcome of your dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Failing to marinate the flank steak long enough can lead to a lack of flavor. Aim for at least several hours or overnight for the best taste.

• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak too long results in tough meat. Use a meat thermometer and aim for medium-rare (130-135°F) for optimal tenderness.

• Neglecting to Let the Steak Rest: Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Allow it to rest for about five minutes before slicing.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold mozzarella or tomatoes can cool down your dish. Make sure they are at room temperature or slightly warmed for better integration.

• Not Slicing Against the Grain: Slicing with the grain makes the steak chewy and tough. Always slice against the grain for tender pieces.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• You can freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place steak and toppings in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.

• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and reheat sliced steak until warmed, about 3-5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese?

Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is a delicious dish featuring marinated grilled flank steak topped with blistered tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. It combines classic Italian flavors into one satisfying meal.

How do I know when my flank steak is done?

For perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare, which ensures your steak remains juicy and tender.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other toppings like avocados or olives. Experimenting with different herbs or cheeses can also provide exciting new flavors.

Can I use other cuts of meat?

Yes, while flank steak is recommended for its flavor and texture, you can substitute skirt steak or sirloin if preferred. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Final Thoughts

Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences, making it perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Give this recipe a try and savor each bite!