Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

Are you ready to elevate your grilling game? This Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is the perfect dish to impress your family and friends at your next gathering. Juicy, flavorful steak combined with fresh mozzarella, blistered tomatoes, and a touch of basil makes for a show-stopping meal that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is for anyone who loves a good steak and enjoys the fresh flavors of a Caprese salad. It’s a great choice for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to serve something special. The combination of the tangy balsamic marinade, succulent grilled steak, and the fresh burst of tomatoes and mozzarella is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for entertaining.

Ingredients

For the Balsamic Marinade/Dressing:

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 large clove garlic, minced/grated
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Steak Caprese:

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

Directions

Prepare the Marinade:

1. Mix all the marinade ingredients well in a bowl.

Marinate the Steak:

2. Marinate the flank steak in half of the balsamic marinade in the fridge overnight.

Grill the Steak:

3. Shake off the excess marinade and grill the steak over medium-high heat until cooked to the desired level of doneness, about 3-5 minutes per side. Set aside to rest for 5 minutes.

Grill the Tomatoes:

4. Grill the cherry tomatoes until lightly charred, about 3-5 minutes. Alternatively, blister them in a heavy-bottom skillet on the stovetop at medium-high heat.

Assemble the Dish:

5. Slice the steak thinly against the grain. Top with the blistered tomatoes, diced mozzarella, basil, and the remaining marinade/dressing. Enjoy!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Grill or heavy-bottom skillet
• Tongs
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Tips and Variations

• Marinade Time: For the best flavor, marinate the steak overnight. If you’re short on time, even a few hours will still impart good flavor.
• Cheese: If you can’t find buffalo mozzarella, fresh cow’s milk mozzarella will work just as well.
• Herbs: Feel free to add other fresh herbs like oregano or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
• Grilling Alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the steak and tomatoes on a grill pan or in a cast-iron skillet.
• Vegetable Additions: Add some grilled bell peppers or zucchini for more variety and color.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the steak, tomatoes, and mozzarella separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The steak will keep for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the steak and tomatoes and assemble as directed.

Pairing Suggestions

This Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages:

• Sides: Serve with a simple arugula salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
• Wine: A nice glass of Chianti or a full-bodied Zinfandel would complement the flavors perfectly.
• Beer: A light, crisp lager or a slightly hoppy IPA would be a great match.

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of steak? Absolutely! While flank steak is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can use skirt steak or even a flat iron steak as alternatives.

What if I don’t have a grill? No problem! You can cook the steak and tomatoes in a grill pan or a cast-iron skillet on your stovetop.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the steak and prepare the marinade/dressing a day in advance. Grill the steak and tomatoes just before serving for the best results.

More About the Recipe

This Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is a fusion of classic Italian flavors with the smoky, charred goodness of a perfectly grilled steak. The marinade is a delightful blend of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, and garlic. This combination not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a deep, tangy flavor that complements the fresh, bright elements of the Caprese topping.

The Beauty of Flank Steak

Flank steak is a fantastic choice for grilling. It’s lean, flavorful, and cooks quickly, making it perfect for those busy weeknight dinners or last-minute get-togethers. When cooked to perfection and sliced against the grain, flank steak offers a tender bite that’s hard to resist. The balsamic marinade ensures each slice is bursting with flavor, making every bite a delight.

The Caprese Twist

Adding a Caprese twist to the grilled steak elevates the dish to a whole new level. The combination of blistered cherry tomatoes, creamy buffalo mozzarella, and fresh basil creates a vibrant, mouth-watering topping that balances the rich, savory steak beautifully. The additional drizzle of the balsamic dressing ties everything together, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

Cooking Tips

• Grill Marks: For those beautiful grill marks, make sure your grill is hot before adding the steak. Resist the urge to move the steak around; let it sear undisturbed to get those nice, defined grill lines.
• Resting the Steak: Allowing the steak to rest after grilling is crucial. This step lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful.
• Tomato Blistering: Blistering the tomatoes adds a smoky depth of flavor that complements the steak. Keep an eye on them, as they can char quickly. You want them to be lightly blistered, not burnt.

Customization Options

• Cheese Substitutions: While fresh mozzarella is traditional for Caprese, you can experiment with other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a tangier twist.
• Herb Variations: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary to the marinade for an aromatic boost. You can also garnish the dish with additional herbs for extra freshness.
• Vegetable Variations: Incorporate other grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for added color and nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in separate airtight containers. The steak will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the steak gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave at a lower power setting to avoid drying it out. Reheat the tomatoes briefly just before serving.

Perfect Pairings

• Salads: Pair this dish with a light, crisp salad like arugula with lemon vinaigrette, or a classic Caesar salad.
• Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, grilled corn on the cob, or a quinoa salad would complement this dish nicely.
• Desserts: Finish your meal with a simple, fresh dessert like strawberries and cream, or a light lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate.

Final Thoughts

This Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is a versatile and impressive dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the hearty satisfaction of a grilled steak and the fresh, vibrant flavors of a Caprese salad. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household, perfect for any occasion.

Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.

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