As I caught the tantalizing aroma of grilled flank steak wafting from the backyard, it transported me back to sun-drenched summer evenings spent with friends and family. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing, a dish that combines juicy, perfectly-charred steak with the fresh flavors of cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights—it’s quick to prepare and packed with healthy, high-protein goodness. Not only does it cater to gluten-free and low-carb diets, but it also offers a refreshing twist on a classic Italian favorite, making it perfect for those sultry summer dinners. Are you ready to elevate your dining experience? Let’s dive into the savory details of this delightful recipe!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Quick and Easy: The entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: Juicy grilled steak meets fresh Caprese ingredients, providing a satisfying mix of savory and refreshing tastes.
Health-Conscious: Naturally gluten-free and low-carb, it delivers high protein without compromising on flavor, making it ideal for health enthusiasts.
Versatile Delight: Serve it as a family dinner centerpiece or slice it for a light lunch—this dish shines in any setting.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or a cozy family meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!
Pair it with some Soup Cheddar Bay for a satisfying feast or enjoy it alongside a slice of Peach Cake Frosting for the perfect summer dessert.
Grilled Flank Steak Caprese Ingredients
For the Steak
- Flank Steak – A lean cut packed with protein; look for USDA Choice or Prime for best quality.
- Olive Oil – Essential for marinating and enhances flavor depth.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds a bold kick; avoid using pre-minced for better taste.
- Salt – A basic yet crucial ingredient to boost all flavors in the dish.
- Black Pepper – Use freshly cracked pepper for a fragrant, mild heat to enhance the steak.
For the Caprese Salad
- Cherry Tomatoes – Their sweetness and acidity are a perfect match; substitute with other varieties if desired.
- Fresh Mozzarella Balls – Creamy and delightful; feel free to slice larger mozzarella if that’s what you have on hand.
- Fresh Basil – Adds a refreshing herbal note; consider arugula for a peppery variation.
For the Balsamic Dressing
- Balsamic Glaze – Provides that tangy sweetness; you can make your own by reducing balsamic vinegar with honey for a richer flavor.
This Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing is sure to become a summertime favorite in your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a zip-top bag or shallow dish, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Place the flank steak inside and ensure it’s well coated with the marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour, but for optimal flavor, aim for 8 hours if you can manage it.
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. While the grill is heating, remove the flank steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off. You want the steak to sizzle and sear nicely when placed on the hot grill, achieving those beautiful grill marks.
Step 3: Grill the Steak
Arrange the flank steak on the hot grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on one side, until you see a nice brown crust forming. Use tongs to flip the steak over and grill for another 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer a higher doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F for juicy, tender steak.
Step 4: Rest and Slice the Steak
Once done grilling, transfer the flank steak to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This step is crucial for keeping the meat tender. After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness, revealing a beautifully cooked interior.
Step 5: Prepare the Caprese Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Drizzle this mixture with a little olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt. Gently toss all ingredients together, ensuring the tomatoes are well coated, and allow the salad to sit for a few moments to let the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
On a large serving platter, arrange your beautifully sliced steak alongside the Caprese salad mixture. Drizzle the vibrant Caprese with balsamic glaze for an added burst of flavor. Serve warm, enjoying the delightful combination of savory steak and fresh ingredients as you gather around the table for a memorable meal.
How to Store and Freeze Grilled Flank Steak Caprese
Fridge: Store leftover grilled flank steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the Caprese salad ingredients separate to maintain freshness.
Freezer: The grilled flank steak can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat the steak, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it in a skillet over medium heat, or use a microwave in short intervals. Avoid reheating the salad; enjoy it fresh instead!
Serving Suggestions: For best quality, consider serving the steak with freshly made Caprese ingredients; this keeps the dish vibrant and full of flavor.
Grilled Flank Steak Caprese Variations
Customize your dish for a delightful twist on the classic flavors!
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Steak Swap: Replace flank steak with skirt steak or flat iron steak for a different texture and flavor profile. Both cuts deliver delicious results.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts in your Caprese salad for a delightful crunch. This adds an earthy flavor that elevates the dish.
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Creamy Upgrade: Swap out fresh mozzarella for burrata cheese for an oozy, creamy texture that takes each bite to a new level of indulgence.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh arugula instead of basil for a peppery kick, giving your Caprese salad a fresh and vivid twist. It complements the sweetness of the tomatoes beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze. This adds a bold warmth that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Vegetable Boost: Add grilled zucchini or eggplant slices alongside your Caprese salad for heartiness and a wonderful smoky flavor. This makes the dish even more satisfying.
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Sweet Surprise: Drizzle a bit of honey over the grilled steak before serving to balance the savory flavors with a hint of sweetness. It pairs perfectly with the acidity of the balsamic glaze.
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Zesty Finish: Incorporate lemon zest into your Caprese salad dressing for a bright, citrusy note that beautifully contrasts with the rich steak. This freshness is perfect for summer meals.
Pair your Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Korean Bbq Meatballs for a delightful feast or serve with a warm bowl of Rib Ragu Parmesan for a cozy family dinner. Enjoy these delicious variations tailored just for you!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing are perfect for busy meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen—simply store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Additionally, the Caprese salad components—cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—can be prepped up to 2 days ahead; just keep them refrigerated separately to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, grill the marinated steak as directed, slice it against the grain for tenderness, and assemble everything on a platter with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for that delightful finishing touch. This way, you present a delicious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing
Imagine a delightful summer gathering where vibrant flavors dance on your palate and the tantalizing aroma of grilled steak fills the air.
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Grilled Vegetables: Smoky and tender, grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring a bright contrast to the savory steak, creating a perfect harmony.
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Garlic Bread: This crunchy, butter-laden delight, brushed with garlic and herbs, complements the dish beautifully, offering a satisfying bite alongside the juicy steak.
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Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, a tabbouleh-style quinoa salad with parsley, cucumber, and lemon zest provides a refreshing twist, enhancing the meal’s overall brightness.
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Caprese Skewers: For an appetizer, these skewers of cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic reduction echo the flavors of the main dish, uniting your dining experience.
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White Wine Spritzer: A crisp, refreshing spritzer balances the savory richness of the steak, making it an ideal drink for quenching thirst on warm evenings.
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Lemon Sorbet: To cleanse the palate, this light, tart dessert serves as a perfect finale, enhancing the delightful summery feel of your meal while rounding off the vibrant flavors.
Expert Tips for Grilled Flank Steak Caprese
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Slice Smart: Always slice flank steak against the grain to maintain tenderness and avoid chewiness. This small step makes a big difference in texture.
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Perfect Doneness: Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking. Aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare; overcooking can lead to dryness.
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Marination Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the steak for at least 1 hour, but 8 hours is ideal. This enhances the overall taste and juiciness of your grilled flank steak Caprese.
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Homemade Glaze: To elevate the dish, make your own balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar until it thickens; add honey for sweetness, if desired.
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Meal Prep Magic: Grill extra flank steak to use in salads, sandwiches, or wraps throughout the week. Store components separately to maintain freshness.
Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! Look for cherry tomatoes that are firm, plump, and vibrant in color—red or yellow, depending on your preference. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel soft, as this indicates overripeness. If you can smell a sweet tomato aroma, that’s a great sign they’re ripe and flavorful!
How should I store leftover ingredients from the Grilled Flank Steak Caprese?
To keep your Grilled Flank Steak Caprese fresh, store the leftover grilled steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. For the Caprese salad components, including cherry tomatoes and mozzarella, place them in a separate container to maintain their freshness—these will last 1-2 days stored this way.
Can I freeze the grilled flank steak, and how?
Certainly! To freeze your grilled flank steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date, and it can be sealed in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
What should I do if my steak turns out tough?
Not to worry! If your grilled flank steak comes out tough, it might be due to slicing against the grain incorrectly. Always slice thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Also, if the steak was overcooked, using a meat thermometer helps avoid this; aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F for juicy results.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
Very! This Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is naturally gluten-free and suits low-carb diets. However, ensure your balsamic glaze doesn’t contain added sugars or allergens if you’re catering to specific dietary needs. This dish is also high in protein, making it an excellent choice for those mindful of macro ratios.
What are alternative ingredients I can use in this recipe?
You can easily adapt this recipe! If flank steak isn’t available, substitute it with skirt steak or flat iron steak for similar results. Additionally, if fresh mozzarella isn’t at hand, consider burrata for a creamier texture or even feta for a tangy twist in your Caprese salad. Enjoy experimenting!
Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a zip-top bag or shallow dish, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Marinate the flank steak for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. Let any excess marinade drip off the steak.
- Grill the flank steak for 4-5 minutes on one side until browned, then flip and grill for another 4-5 minutes for medium-rare.
- After grilling, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle salt. Toss gently.
- On a serving platter, arrange the sliced steak alongside the Caprese salad mixture. Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
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