Grilled Skirt Steak with Blistered Tomatoes and Burrata: A Flavorful Summer Feast

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When the sun is shining, and the scent of a sizzling steak fills the air, nothing beats the experience of a perfectly grilled skirt steak. This dish, paired with blistered tomatoes and rich, creamy burrata, is a true celebration of summer. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this combination will quickly become your favorite go-to meal. But how do you make it perfect every time? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about creating the ultimate grilled skirt steak with blistered tomatoes and burrata.

Why Grilled Skirt Steak with Blistered Tomatoes and Burrata is the Ultimate Summer Dish

A Flavorful Adventure

The main appeal of grilled skirt steak lies in its deep, beefy flavor. Skirt steak is a cut that cooks quickly, making it ideal for grilling. But what truly elevates this dish is its pairing with blistered tomatoes, which bring a touch of sweetness and acidity. The soft burrata, with its rich creaminess, balances the entire dish, bringing a refreshing contrast to the smoky steak and tangy tomatoes. Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Imagine taking a bite of perfectly grilled skirt steak, followed by the juicy pop of tomatoes and the velvety smoothness of burrata. This is the kind of dish that will have your guests reaching for seconds. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience.

A Versatile Dish for Every Occasion

Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or impressing guests at a special event, this dish adapts beautifully to any setting. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner, yet it’s sophisticated enough to serve at a dinner party. The ingredients are fresh and simple, but together they create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a meal that’s bound to make you feel like a chef in your own kitchen.

The Secret to Perfect Grilled Skirt Steak

Understanding Skirt Steak

Skirt steak comes from the diaphragm muscles of the cow, and while it’s one of the most flavorful cuts, it’s also quite thin. This means it cooks very quickly, making it perfect for grilling. When cooked properly, skirt steak is tender and juicy, but if overcooked, it can become tough and chewy.

The key to perfect grilled skirt steak is to ensure it’s cooked quickly on high heat and sliced correctly. With the right technique, you’ll achieve a tender, juicy steak that’s bursting with flavor.

Choosing the Right Skirt Steak

When selecting skirt steak, look for fresh cuts that are deep red and marbled with fat. Marbling, the fat that runs through the meat, helps keep the steak juicy and flavorful. You can find skirt steak at your local butcher or grocery store, but if it’s unavailable, flank steak is a great substitute. However, keep in mind that flank steak is a bit thicker, so it will need slightly longer cooking time.

How to Season Your Skirt Steak

While skirt steak is already flavorful, the right seasoning can really bring out its best qualities. The classic seasoning for skirt steak is simple: kosher salt. The salt helps enhance the meat’s natural flavors, without overpowering them.

1. Pat Dry: Always pat your skirt steak dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps remove excess moisture that can prevent the steak from searing properly.
2. Generous Salt: Season the steak generously on both sides with kosher salt. This helps the seasoning penetrate the meat and ensures a flavorful crust when grilled.
3. Let It Rest: Allow the steak to come to room temperature before grilling. This ensures it cooks evenly and prevents the steak from becoming tough.

Grilling the Skirt Steak to Perfection

Skirt steak benefits from high heat. Preheat your grill to a high temperature and let it smoke for about 15 minutes before placing the steak on it. This will ensure that the steak sears well and locks in the juices.

1. High Heat, Quick Cooking: Skirt steak only needs about 2-3 minutes per side on a hot grill. Because the steak is thin, it cooks quickly. Flip the steak every minute to ensure even cooking on both sides.
2. Use an Instant-Read Thermometer: The best way to check for doneness is by using an instant-read thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 140°F, and let the steak rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.
3. Slice Against the Grain: Once the steak has rested for a few minutes, slice it thinly against the grain. This will ensure the meat remains tender and easy to chew.

Blistered Tomatoes and Garlic: The Flavorful Sidekick

Why Blister Tomatoes?

Blistering tomatoes on the stovetop before adding them to the dish creates a caramelized, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the steak. The high heat causes the skins to burst, releasing the juices and making them tender, sweet, and slightly charred. This technique enhances the natural flavors of the tomatoes, making them a perfect partner for the savory steak.

Cooking the Tomatoes

1. Use a Medium-High Heat: To blister the tomatoes, heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cherry tomatoes.
2. Do Not Stir: Let the tomatoes cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes. This allows the skins to blister and the tomatoes to cook evenly.
3. Add Garlic and Salt: Once the tomatoes begin to blister, add garlic and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes, until the garlic is golden and fragrant and the tomatoes are soft.

Why Garlic Works So Well

Garlic adds a depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes. When garlic is cooked to golden perfection, it becomes sweet and mellow, enhancing the overall profile of the dish. It’s not just an ingredient—it’s a flavor booster that elevates the entire meal.

The Creamy Burrata: A Luxurious Touch

What is Burrata?

Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. It has a delicate, buttery flavor and a soft, creamy interior. When you tear it open, the creamy center spills out, making it the perfect addition to this dish. The richness of burrata brings a luxurious texture that complements the grilled skirt steak and blistered tomatoes.

How to Add Burrata to Your Dish

1. Tear, Don’t Slice: When adding burrata to your dish, tear it into bite-sized pieces rather than slicing it. Tearing it gives you the chance to enjoy the creamy interior and adds a rustic touch to the presentation.
2. Place on Top: After plating the steak and tomatoes, tear the burrata over the top. This creates a beautiful, creamy contrast to the savory flavors of the steak and the tangy sweetness of the tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle with Salt and Pepper: Finish the dish with a sprinkle of flaky salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance all the flavors.

A Step-by-Step Recipe for Grilled Skirt Steak with Blistered Tomatoes and Burrata

Ingredients:

Ingredient	Amount
Skirt steak	1 ½ lbs
Kosher salt	2 ½ tsp
Extra virgin olive oil	¼ cup
Cherry tomatoes	1 pint (10-12 oz)
Garlic cloves (roughly chopped or thinly sliced)	6 cloves
Burrata (torn into bite-size pieces)	1 (4 oz) ball
Flaky salt	To taste
Freshly ground black pepper	To taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Grill:
   Preheat your grill to high heat, allowing it to smoke for 15 minutes to ensure the steak sears properly.
2. Prepare the Steak:
   Pat the skirt steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with kosher salt.
3. Grill the Steak:
   Place the steak on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping every minute to ensure even cooking. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness (140°F for medium-rare). Once done, remove the steak and let it rest for 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Tomatoes and Garlic:
   While the steak is resting, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes without stirring. Then, add the garlic and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes until the tomatoes are blistered and the garlic is golden.
5. Assemble the Dish:
   Thinly slice the rested steak against the grain. Arrange the steak on a plate, top with the blistered tomatoes and garlic, and tear the burrata over the top. Sprinkle with flaky salt and freshly ground black pepper.
6. Serve:
   Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 350-400
• Other Nutritional Highlights:
  • Rich in protein and healthy fats
  • High in vitamins from tomatoes and garlic
  • A great source of iron and vitamin A

Tips for Customizing This Recipe

• Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, garnish the dish with fresh basil or thyme.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the tomatoes and garlic for a kick of heat.
• Swap the Burrata: If burrata isn’t available, you can use fresh mozzarella or even ricotta as an alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, if you can’t find skirt steak, flank steak or hanger steak are good substitutes. They have similar textures and flavors, though you may need to adjust the cooking time.

How do I know when the steak is done?

The best way to check the doneness is with an instant-read thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 140°F.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the steak is best served immediately, you can prepare the tomatoes and garlic in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes! This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it an excellent choice for keto or paleo diets.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Dish for Any Occasion

Grilled Skirt Steak with Blistered Tomatoes and Burrata is a dish that delivers on flavor, elegance, and ease. With its vibrant colors and delicious textures, it’s perfect for summer gatherings, casual dinners, or a special treat any time of year. So fire up your grill, gather the ingredients, and create a meal that will leave everyone at the table satisfied and coming back for more.

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