Name: Pesto Steak: Juicy Flank with Creamy Burrata Magic
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Flank Steak (A flavorful cut that benefits from marination.); 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Feel free to swap with avocado oil.); 1 tbsp Honey (Maple syrup works as a delightful substitute.); 2 cloves Garlic (Grated or minced for maximum flavor.); 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar is a good alternative.); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Tamari can be used for gluten-free.); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Opt for freshly ground.); 2 cups Arugula (Adds a peppery kick.); 1 cup Basil (Enhances the pesto’s aroma.); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan (Nutritional yeast is a perfect vegan substitute.); 1/4 cup Pine Nuts (Walnuts or almonds can substitute.); 1 tbsp Lemon Zest (Lime zest works as an alternative.); 2 cloves Garlic (Crushed.); 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt (Be cautious with table salt.); 1/4 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper (To taste.); 2 ears Corn (Zucchini can substitute.); 8 oz Burrata Cheese (Fresh mozzarella can be an excellent swap.)

As the sun sets and the grill begins to sizzle, the excitement of summer cooking can’t be contained. One of my all-time favorite dishes to prepare in this enchanting season is Pesto Steak, specifically this Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Arugula Pesto. Marinated in a delightful mix of soy sauce, honey, and garlic, this steak is grilled to enticing perfection, creating a juicy centerpiece for any gathering. The luscious burrata and vibrant arugula pesto elevate this dish, making it not just a meal, but a feast for the senses. Plus, it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining. Who’s ready to enhance their BBQ game with this fresh twist? Let’s dive in!

Why is Pesto Steak a Must-try?

Flavor Explosion: The rich marinade of soy sauce and honey creates a mouthwatering flavor that perfectly complements the juicy flank steak.

Quick & Easy: With just a 30-minute marination, you can go from prep to plate in no time, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu BBQs.

Crowd-Pleasing: Impress your guests with creamy burrata and vibrant arugula pesto, transforming a simple steak into a show-stopping centerpiece.

Versatile Sidekick: Serve it with your favorite grilled vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing summer meal that everyone will love!

Elevate Your Grilling Game: Get ready to take your BBQ skills to the next level with this delectable twist on a classic steak dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Pesto Steak Ingredients

• Ready to make your taste buds dance with this Pesto Steak!

For the Marinade

Flank Steak – A flavorful cut that benefits greatly from marination to achieve tenderness.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness; feel free to swap with avocado oil for a milder flavor.
Honey – Balances the savory with sweetness; maple syrup works as a delightful substitute.
Garlic (grated or minced) – Infuses a robust flavor into the marinade; skip the substitute for maximum taste.
Red Wine Vinegar – Provides necessary acidity and tenderizes the steak; apple cider vinegar is a good alternative.
Soy Sauce – The umami hero of the marinade; tamari can be used for a gluten-free version.
Black Pepper – A must for seasoning; opt for freshly ground for enhanced flavor.

For the Pesto

Arugula – The star of the pesto, adding a peppery kick; spinach can be used if arugula isn’t available.
Basil – Enhances the pesto’s aroma; other herbs like cilantro could bring a unique twist.
Grated Parmesan – Adds a nutty richness; nutritional yeast is a perfect vegan substitute.
Pine Nuts – Introduces a delightful nuttiness; walnuts or almonds can step in when needed.
Lemon Zest – Brightens and elevates the pesto flavor; lime zest works as a refreshing alternative.
Garlic (crushed) – Boosts the garlic flavor in the pesto; standard garlic is completely acceptable.
Kosher Salt – Essential for flavor; be cautious when substituting with table salt as it’s saltier.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds seasoning to taste for a well-rounded pesto.

For Grilling

Corn (ears) – Brings sweetness and texture to the dish; zucchini can substitute if you prefer.
Burrata Cheese – The ultimate creamy topping for your steak; fresh mozzarella can be an excellent swap.

Let your culinary journey begin! Dive into the vibrant flavors of this Pesto Steak and savor every delightful bite.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pesto Steak

Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade. Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or a dish, pour the marinade over it, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the marinade to penetrate the meat, ideally up to 24 hours for enhanced flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill
While the steak is marinating, preheat your grill to high heat, aiming for about 450°F to 500°F. This high temperature will create a beautiful sear on your steak. Once preheated, make sure to oil the grill grates lightly to prevent the steak from sticking; a paper towel dabbed in vegetable oil works perfectly for this task.

Step 3: Make the Pesto
In a food processor, combine fresh arugula, basil, grated Parmesan cheese, toasted pine nuts, lemon zest, crushed garlic, and salt. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds. Taste the arugula pesto, adjusting the seasoning with freshly ground black pepper if needed, to ensure it is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Grill the Steak and Corn
Remove the flank steak from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place it on the hot grill, cooking for about 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare (around 132°F). During the last few minutes of grilling, add fresh corn to the grill, turning occasionally, until charred and tender, which will take about 10 minutes total.

Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once cooked, remove the steak and corn from the grill and let the steak rest for five minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips for maximum tenderness. Plate the beautifully sliced steak with the grilled corn and creamy burrata, generously dolloping the vibrant arugula pesto over the top for a stunning presentation.

Expert Tips for Pesto Steak

Marination Matters: Marinate your flank steak for at least 24 hours if possible. This deepens the flavor and enhances tenderness, making your pesto steak even more enjoyable.
Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is hot—450°F to 500°F is ideal for that perfect sear. A hot grill creates a tantalizing crust while keeping the inside juicy.
Slice Against the Grain: After grilling, always slice the steak against the grain. This technique increases tenderness and makes for easier eating, perfect for your pesto steak.
Rest the Meat: Allow the steak to rest for five minutes after grilling. Letting it rest allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and flavorful bite.
Customized Pesto: Feel free to experiment with the ingredients in your arugula pesto. Adding fresh herbs or adjusting the cheese can create a unique twist, keeping the dish fresh and exciting!

What to Serve with Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto

Imagine the aroma of grilled goodness filling your kitchen while you create a summer feast that dazzles the senses.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture balances the juicy steak, providing comfort on the plate and pairing beautifully with the rich burrata.
Grilled Asparagus: The slight char and fresh crunch of asparagus make a delightful contrast to the tender flank steak, enhancing the overall experience.
Roasted Baby Carrots: Sweet and vibrant, their caramelized edges complement the savory flavors of the steak while adding a pop of color to your meal.
Caprese Salad: Fresh, ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella harmonize with the arugula pesto, delivering a refreshing bite that brightens every forkful.
Quinoa Salad: Packed with fresh herbs and vibrant veggies, this protein-rich side adds a nutty texture that pairs perfectly with the tender steak.
Chilled Rosé Wine: Its crispness and refreshing qualities elevate each bite of steak, making it an ideal companion for summer evenings.
Grilled Peaches with Honey: For dessert, these juicy, caramelized delights topped with a drizzle of honey offer a sweet finish that complements the meal perfectly.

How to Store and Freeze Pesto Steak

Fridge: Store any leftover pesto steak in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the burrata separate to maintain its creaminess, and reheat steak gently on low heat to avoid drying it out.

Freezer: If you want to freeze pesto steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

Reheating: To reheat, warm the steak in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist. Avoid microwave reheating as it may create a rubbery texture.

Pesto Steak Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Pesto Steak adventure with these fun and tasty variations that will spark your creativity in the kitchen!

Cheese Swap: Replace burrata with fresh mozzarella or feta for a unique cheese profile that still delivers creaminess.
With mozzarella, you’ll have a milder flavor, while feta introduces a delightful tanginess, perfectly balancing the steak’s richness.
Pesto Herb Mix: Experiment with different herbs in the pesto like cilantro or parsley to shake things up.
This twist can add a refreshing note that complements the steak, making every bite a delightful surprise!
Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, mix red pepper flakes into the marinade or pesto for a zesty punch.
Your taste buds will appreciate the exciting flavor dynamics that this simple addition brings to the dish!
Nutty Flavor: If you want to switch gears, try using walnuts or almonds instead of pine nuts in your pesto.
Both nuts will offer a slightly different texture and flavor that can give your pesto a unique personality.
Vegan Pesto: Create a vegan version by swapping Parmesan with nutritional yeast in the pesto for that desired cheesy flavor.
This substitution makes the pesto lively without any dairy, catering to plant-based diets while keeping it delicious!
Zesty Citrus: Replace lemon zest with lime zest to give a tropical feel to your arugula pesto.
The lime’s acidity can brighten up the whole dish, making your Pesto Steak feel even more summery!
Grilled Veggie Boost: Instead of corn, grill zucchini or bell peppers for a delicious vegetable side that complements the steak.
These alternatives bring vibrant colors and varied textures, taking your meal to the next level.
Different Marinades: Switch up the marinade by adding ingredients like Worcestershire sauce instead of soy sauce to bring in a new depth of flavor.
This alteration offers an entirely different taste experience, adding another layer of delight to your BBQ spread.

Get adventurous and delight in the flavors of your custom Pesto Steak creation, ensuring every gathering becomes a cherished memory! Don’t forget to check out my Grilled Vegetables or Fresh Salads for perfect pairings to enhance your meal!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Pesto Steak ahead of time is a dream for busy home cooks! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to soak up the flavors for a succulent result. Simply whisk together the marinade ingredients and cover the steak in a dish or a resealable bag, then refrigerate. The arugula pesto can also be made up to 3 days ahead; just blend all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh and vibrant. When you’re ready to grill, simply cook the marinated steak and corn as instructed, and finish with a generous dollop of pesto for a meal that tastes just as delicious as if it were made that day!

Pesto Steak Recipe FAQs

What kind of flank steak should I buy?
When selecting flank steak, look for cuts that are bright red without any dark spots or excessive marbling. You want a lean piece that feels firm to the touch. I recommend asking your butcher for guidance if you’re unsure.

How do I store leftover pesto steak?
Store leftover pesto steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To retain the burrata’s creamy texture, keep it in a separate container. Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet to avoid drying out the meat.

Can I freeze pesto steak?
Absolutely! To freeze your pesto steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the steak in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What if my flank steak is tough?
If your flank steak turns out tough, it’s crucial to ensure you marinate it longer next time—ideally 24 hours. Also, remember to slice against the grain after cooking. This technique breaks down the fibers and makes the meat easier to chew.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, you can make this pesto steak gluten-free! Simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, a gluten-free option. Ensure that any other sauces or accompaniments you use are also labeled gluten-free.

What should I do with leftovers?
Leftover pesto steak can be repurposed in many tasty ways! Chop it up for salads, toss it into pasta, or use it in sandwiches. Just remember to keep it refrigerated and use it within 2 days for optimal freshness.