Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is a delightful dish that combines the savory richness of grilled flank steak with the fresh and zesty flavors of a traditional Caprese salad. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or any time you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The marinated flank steak pairs beautifully with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a balsamic reduction that elevates this dish to gourmet status. Not only is it visually stunning, but it also offers an explosion of flavor in every bite. With straightforward preparation steps and readily available ingredients, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow. In just under an hour, you can have a beautiful meal ready for serving that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family dinner, Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Flank Steak: Choose about 1-1.5 pounds of flank steak for optimal flavor; look for cuts that are bright red with good marbling.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Use high-quality balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavor profile; it adds tanginess and depth to the marinade.
- Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for ball mozzarella rather than pre-shredded varieties; it offers creaminess that complements the tomatoes.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Select ripe cherry tomatoes for sweetness; they should be firm but slightly yielding when gently squeezed.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Fresh basil adds aromatic flavor; choose vibrant green leaves without wilting or browning.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Flank Steak
Place the flank steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour or up to overnight.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Ensure grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Steak
Remove the flank steak from the marinade and let excess drip off. Place on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for about five minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.
Step 6: Assemble Your Dish
On a serving platter, layer slices of grilled flank steak with fresh mozzarella slices and halved cherry tomatoes. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional balsamic glaze if desired for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight
How to Serve Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese
This Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor. Prepare the Caprese salad components—sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—up to 4 hours early. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Storing: Leftover Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure that you keep the salad ingredients separate from the steak to maintain freshness.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the flank steak in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the steak tough. Serve with fresh Caprese ingredients after reheating.
Suggestions for Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese
Select the Right Cut of Meat
Choosing the right cut of meat is vital for making a delicious Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese. Flank steak is known for its rich flavor and tenderness when prepared correctly. However, if you select an inferior cut, you risk ending up with tough and chewy meat. Always opt for high-quality flank steak from a reputable source. Look for meat that has a good amount of marbling, as this will enhance both flavor and juiciness. Additionally, ensure that the steak is fresh; it should have a bright red color without any dark spots. Taking the time to select quality ingredients will pay off in the final dish.
Marinate Long Enough
Marinating your flank steak properly is crucial for achieving maximum flavor in your Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese. While some recipes suggest marinating for just 30 minutes, it’s best to allow the steak to soak up the flavors for at least two hours or even overnight. This longer marination time helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar, herbs, and spices. If you’re short on time, avoid using overly acidic marinades that can begin to break down the meat too quickly. A well-balanced marinade will elevate your dish significantly.
Grill at the Right Temperature
Grilling at the correct temperature is essential for cooking perfect Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the steak on it. If your grill isn’t hot enough, the steak may cook unevenly and won’t develop those beautiful char marks that add flavor. Aim for an internal temperature of about 135°F for medium-rare doneness; this ensures that your flank steak remains juicy and tender. Don’t forget to let it rest after grilling! Resting allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
Slice Against the Grain
When it comes to serving your Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese, slicing against the grain is crucial for tenderness. Flank steak has long muscle fibers that can be tough if cut improperly. To identify the grain, look closely at how the fibers run in one direction across the meat. By slicing against this grain—perpendicular to those fibers—you shorten them, resulting in a more tender bite. Aim for slices about half an inch thick; this size works best when layering with fresh mozzarella and basil in your Caprese assembly.
FAQs
What is Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese?
Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is a delightful dish that combines grilled flank steak marinated in balsamic vinegar with fresh mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, and basil leaves. It offers a perfect balance of savory and tangy flavors while being visually appealing on any plate. This dish can be served as an appetizer or main course and highlights seasonal ingredients beautifully. The combination of grilled beef with fresh produce makes it ideal for summer barbecues or casual family dinners.
Can I use other cuts of steak instead of flank?
While flank steak is traditionally used in Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese due to its flavor and texture, you can certainly experiment with other cuts if desired. Skirt steak or sirloin can also work well but might yield slightly different textures and flavors. Keep in mind that each cut has its unique characteristics; therefore, cooking times may vary depending on thickness and marbling.
How long should I marinate my flank steak?
For optimal flavor infusion in your Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese, marinating your flank steak for at least two hours is recommended; however, overnight marination yields even better results! Avoid marinating for over 24 hours since acidic components like balsamic vinegar can start breaking down proteins too much, leading to mushy meat.
What sides pair well with this dish ?
Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it alongside garlic roasted potatoes or a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for balance. You could also opt for grilled vegetables or a refreshing pasta salad featuring cherry tomatoes and basil to complement the Italian-inspired flavors of this dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, creating a mouthwatering Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese involves careful selection of ingredients and attention to detail during preparation. Choosing high-quality flank steak ensures a flavorful base while allowing ample marination time enhances tenderness and taste. Proper grilling techniques contribute to achieving that perfect char while slicing against the grain guarantees each bite remains succulent and enjoyable. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this dish showcases vibrant flavors paired harmoniously together—making it an ideal choice for any occasion!

Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese
- Author: Cecilia
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is a vibrant and savory dish that elevates summer dining to a whole new level. This recipe features tender, marinated flank steak grilled to perfection, layered with fresh mozzarella, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Drizzled with a rich balsamic reduction, each bite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to impress your family and guests alike. Perfect for casual gatherings or elegant dinners, this dish is not only beautiful but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1–1.5 pounds flank steak
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Marinate the flank steak in the mixture for at least one hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Grill the flank steak for 5-7 minutes on each side until medium-rare.
- Let it rest for five minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.
- Layer sliced steak on a platter with mozzarella and cherry tomatoes; garnish with basil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For optimal flavor, marinate overnight. Add avocado or arugula for extra freshness. Serve with crusty bread or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.