There’s something about the flavors of balsamic vinegar, fresh mozzarella, and ripe cherry tomatoes that takes me back to summer barbecues with family and friends. This Balsamic Caprese Flank Steak is one of those recipes that feels special yet is incredibly easy to whip up. You can have this mouthwatering dish on the table in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love Balsamic Caprese Flank Steak
- Fast: You can have the main components prepped and on the grill in about 20 minutes.
- Easy: This recipe is a simple marinade and grill method that anyone can master.
- Flavorful: The combination of balsamic, garlic, and fresh ingredients creates a symphony of flavors.
- Crowd-pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a summer cookout, this dish always impresses guests!
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds flank steak: A great cut of meat that is perfect for marinating and grilling.
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar: Adds that tangy sweetness which beautifully complements the steak.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps in marinating and adds richness to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the dish an aromatic punch.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that enhances the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy, they add a fresh burst of flavor.
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved: Creamy and delicious, they are a must in any Caprese dish.
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves: Adds a fragrant touch and enhances the Caprese aspect.
How to Make Balsamic Caprese Flank Steak
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a fantastic meal:
- In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the balsamic mixture over the steak, ensuring it is evenly coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the flank steak for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- While the steak is resting, combine the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil in a bowl. Drizzle with the remaining balsamic mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips and serve topped with the Caprese mixture.
Substitutions & Additions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some ideas:
- Steak Alternatives: Try using chicken breast or portobello mushrooms for a different flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley can be used instead of oregano for a different twist.
- Veggies: Add bell peppers or zucchini to the grill for a colorful side.
- Cheese: Swap mozzarella for burrata for an even creamier texture.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to make sure your Balsamic Caprese Flank Steak turns out perfectly:
- Don’t skip the marinating time; it really helps the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Let the steak rest after grilling to keep it juicy.
- Make sure to slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- You can make the balsamic mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
How to Store Balsamic Caprese Flank Steak
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Place in an airtight container and it will last for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the steak for up to 3 months. Just be sure to slice it before freezing for easy reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
FAQs
- Can I use a different cut of meat? Yes! Skirt steak or ribeye are great alternatives.
- Is this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes! You can marinate the steak the night before for added flavor.
- What should I serve with this dish? A simple green salad or grilled vegetables make excellent sides.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my Pinterest for more delicious ideas!
Balsamic Caprese Flank Steak
This Balsamic Caprese Flank Steak is an easy yet impressive dish featuring the flavors of balsamic vinegar, fresh mozzarella, and ripe cherry tomatoes, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Step 2: Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the balsamic mixture over the steak, ensuring it is evenly coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours.
- Step 3: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Step 4: Grill the flank steak for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Step 5: While the steak is resting, combine the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil in a bowl. Drizzle with the remaining balsamic mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Step 6: Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips and serve topped with the Caprese mixture.
Notes
Don't skip the marinating time; it really helps the flavors penetrate the meat. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.