If you’re looking for an easy yet show-stopping dish that combines bold flavors and fresh ingredients, the Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak Caprese Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together tender, juicy flank steak marinated in a tangy balsamic blend, perfectly grilled to smoky perfection, and then crowned with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Each bite delivers the best of Italian summer flavors alongside the satisfying richness of grilled steak. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a fresh, colorful meal that’s perfect for a casual dinner or impressing guests with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak Caprese Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a special role—from the balsamic vinegar’s sweet tang to the garlic’s aromatic punch, fresh tomatoes’ vibrant juiciness, and creamy mozzarella’s indulgence. Together, they create a harmonious burst of flavor and texture that makes the dish unforgettable.
- 1.5 pounds flank steak: Choose a well-marbled cut for juicy, flavorful results after grilling.
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar: Adds a deep, tangy sweetness that tenderizes and flavors the steak.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the marinade coat the meat evenly while enhancing richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a fragrant depth that pairs amazingly with balsamic flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to give an authentic Italian taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice and complexity.
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for sweetness and refreshing contrast.
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced: Soft and creamy, balancing the tangy and savory elements perfectly.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves: Offers bright, aromatic freshness that lifts the entire dish.
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling: A glossy, sweet finishing touch that takes presentation and flavor up a notch.
How to Make Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak Caprese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Steak
Start by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This marinade is where the bold balsamic flavor shines and tenderizes the flank steak beautifully. Place your flank steak in a shallow dish or seal it in a bag, then pour the marinade over it to ensure every inch is coated. Pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but for maximum flavor, let it soak overnight. The longer marinating time will intensify the tang and tenderness.
Step 2: Heat Up the Grill
Bring your grill to medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot, perfect for searing the steak and locking in juices. A hot grill ensures those irresistible grill marks and that savory crust on the outside.
Step 3: Grill the Steak
Remove the steak from the marinade, letting excess drip off (no need to rinse). Grill each side for about 4 to 6 minutes, depending on your preferred doneness. For medium-rare, aim for the shorter grilling time. Remember, flank steak is best sliced thin against the grain after resting, so don’t overcook it—you want juicy, tender slices that melt in your mouth.
Step 4: Let the Steak Rest and Slice
Once off the grill, allow the steak to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial because it lets the juices redistribute, making each slice succulent and tender. Then, slice thinly against the grain to keep the steak from being tough.
Step 5: Assemble the Caprese Toppings
Arrange the steak slices on a serving platter and layer the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella on top. Scatter fresh basil leaves across for a fragrant pop and finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, adding a glossy, sweet tang that pulls everything together visually and flavor-wise.
How to Serve Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak Caprese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is the classic choice here, but feel free to add a sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for extra richness. A pinch of flaky sea salt can also elevate the tomatoes and mozzarella. The key is to keep garnishes fresh and simple to complement the star ingredients.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides to balance its richness. Crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette, grilled crusty bread for soaking up those flavorful juices, or perhaps some roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini make excellent companions.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want a fun twist, serve the steak caprese on top of a bed of mixed greens or even stuffed into toasted baguette slices for a steak caprese bruschetta. Using cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls instead of slices creates a bite-sized version perfect for parties. Presentation can be as rustic or polished as you like—it’s all about celebrating the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftover steak cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, store the steak separately from the tomato and mozzarella toppings if possible, adding them just before serving.
Freezing
While foody fresh is best, you can freeze cooked grilled flank steak for up to 2 months. Slice the steak before freezing and store it in freezer-safe bags with as much air removed as possible. Freeze the caprese toppings separately if you want to maintain their texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm steak slices in a skillet over low heat or in the oven wrapped in foil so they stay moist. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the meat. Add fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil after reheating for the best taste experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Flank steak is ideal due to its texture and flavor when marinated and grilled, but skirt steak or hanger steak can also work well in this Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak Caprese Recipe.
How long should I marinate the steak?
While 30 minutes is the minimum, marinating the steak for at least 4 hours or overnight will develop deeper flavor and tenderness.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can cook the steak in a hot cast-iron skillet or under a broiler at home; just make sure to get a nice sear to replicate that grilled char and flavor.
Can I make this vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, replace the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices, then top with the traditional caprese ingredients and balsamic glaze.
What’s the best way to slice the steak?
Always slice the steak thinly against the grain. This shortens the muscle fibers, resulting in tender, easy-to-chew bites that make the meal more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak Caprese Recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to impress, whether you’re serving family at home or friends at a weekend barbecue. Its incredible balance of tangy, savory, fresh, and creamy flavors is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together with care. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy steak and caprese all in one!
