Grilling season is one of my favorite times of the year, and there’s nothing like serving a delicious, juicy steak to impress friends and family. One recipe that always steals the show at our gatherings is the Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing. The combination of marinated flank steak paired with fresh Caprese salad makes for a stunning presentation and an even better flavor. Trust me; this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table, especially when you want to make a lasting impression with minimal effort.
Why make this recipe?
If you’re looking for a dish that’s as flavorful as it is easy to prepare, this Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is it. The juicy, tender steak contrasts beautifully with the bright, refreshing flavors of the Caprese salad, making each bite a delightful experience. Moreover, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or for weekends spent entertaining. It only takes about 30 minutes of hands-on time, plus marinating, which means you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the company of your guests. Plus, with ingredients typically being budget-friendly, you won’t break the bank while impressing your loved ones with gourmet flair. Kids absolutely love the simplicity of the flavors, and it offers a great way to introduce them to the wonder of fresh, high-quality ingredients.
How to make Grilled Flank Steak Caprese
Preparing this dish is a breeze. The marinating time allows the steak to absorb all those delicious flavors from the olive oil, garlic, and spices, while grilling brings it all to life. Expect to invest about 15-20 minutes prepping and grilling, and don’t forget that marinating time, which you can easily schedule into your day. You don’t need any fancy tools either—a zip-top bag for marinating and a grill or grill pan will do the trick. So, let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1½ pounds flank steak
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
Step-by-step directions:
Getting your steak to perfection with Caprese flavors couldn’t be simpler. Follow these steps for a delicious meal that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!
In a zip-top bag or shallow dish, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Add the flank steak and coat it thoroughly with the marinade. Refrigerate and let it marinate for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours for the best results.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. When it’s hot, remove the steak from the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until you reach your desired doneness—medium-rare to medium is best.
After grilling, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender, juicy steak. When ready, slice the steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
In a mixing bowl, add the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with a pinch of salt. Toss to combine.
Now, arrange the beautifully sliced flank steak and the colorful Caprese salad on a serving platter. Just before serving, drizzle everything with balsamic glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
How to serve Grilled Flank Steak Caprese?
When it comes to serving this dish, I like to keep it simple and elegant. You can serve the flank steak either as the main attraction or slice it for tacos. Pair it with a refreshing green salad, crusty garlic bread, or even some grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Don’t forget a chilled glass of white wine to complement those flavors! A light dessert, like a fruit sorbet or panna cotta, offers a lovely finish to your dinner.
How to store Grilled Flank Steak Caprese?
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store the steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The Caprese salad can also be saved for 1-2 days, but it’s best enjoyed freshly made to appreciate the texture and flavor of the tomatoes and mozzarella. I wouldn’t recommend freezing this dish, as the texture of the salad ingredients changes once thawed.
Tips for perfect Grilled Flank Steak Caprese
Marinate longer for flavor: If you have the time, let the steak marinate overnight. The flavors will intensify, making each bite even more delicious.
Know your grill: Each grill can vary in heat, so keep a close eye on your steak to prevent it from overcooking. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for a temperature of 130°F for medium-rare.
Cut against the grain: Slicing against the grain ensures each bite is tender. If you’re unsure about the direction of the grain, look for the lines on the meat and cut perpendicular to them.
Fresh ingredients make a difference: Use the freshest tomatoes and basil you can find. This will elevate your dish and provide that authentic Caprese flavor.
Balsamic glaze elevates everything: If you can find balsamic glaze, it adds depth and a touch of sweetness that complements the steak beautifully. If you are using reduced balsamic vinegar, adjust the quantity to taste.
Variations
Try a chimichurri sauce: Instead of the Caprese salad, consider topping your grilled flank steak with chimichurri sauce. The zesty, herby flavor adds a new dimension to your meal.
Spice it up: For those who like a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños to your Caprese salad. They bring a delightful kick that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy mozzarella.
Make it a one-pan meal: For a simpler clean-up, toss some zucchini or bell peppers on the grill alongside your steak. You can slice them and add them to your salad for more flavors and colors!
FAQs about Grilled Flank Steak Caprese
Can I substitute flank steak for another cut?
Absolutely! Skirt steak or sirloin steak works well. These cuts also deliver great flavor and tenderness but may require slightly different cooking times based on thickness.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs undeniably enhance this dish, if you’re in a pinch, you can use dried herbs. Just remember to use a smaller quantity than fresh, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can also cook the flank steak using a pan on the stove or in the oven. Just use a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat for similar results. You can also broil it in your oven.
Once you give this Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing a try, you will understand why it has become a family favorite in my home. It’s filled with flavor, easy to prepare, and always leaves everyone smiling. Enjoy the grilling season and the delicious creations that come with it!
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Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A delicious and easy-to-prepare grilled flank steak paired with fresh Caprese salad and drizzled with balsamic glaze.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds flank steak
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
Instructions
- In a zip-top bag or shallow dish, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Add the flank steak and coat it thoroughly with the marinade. Refrigerate and let it marinate for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side or until desired doneness is reached.
- Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, then toss.
- Arrange the sliced flank steak and Caprese salad on a serving platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
Notes
Marinate longer for deeper flavor. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: grilled steak, Caprese salad, balsamic dressing, summer recipes, easy dinner