Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak Caprese combines the bold, smoky flavor of marinated flank steak with the fresh and vibrant elements of a Caprese salad. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for an elegant yet simple recipe. Juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil complement the tender steak, all finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold and Fresh: Combines savory steak with fresh Caprese ingredients.
Quick to Prepare: The marinade comes together in minutes, and the grilling time is minimal.
Impressive Presentation: A visually stunning dish that’s perfect for entertaining.
Versatile: Great as a main course or served over a bed of greens for a hearty salad.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1.5 pounds flank steak
½ cup balsamic vinegar
¼ cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cubed
½ cup fresh basil leaves
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (for drizzling)

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.

2. Marinate the Steak

Place the flank steak in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for more intense flavor.

3. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

4. Grill the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
Grill the steak for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust the time to your preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy (135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).
Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

5. Assemble the Caprese

Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter. Top with halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a finishing touch.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (excluding marinating)

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms.
Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Herbaceous Flavor: Include fresh rosemary or thyme in the marinade.
Cheese Alternatives: Use burrata or crumbled feta instead of mozzarella.
Skewer Style: Thread steak slices, mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil onto skewers for easy serving.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover steak and Caprese components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat steak gently in a skillet over medium heat or serve it cold as part of a salad.
Freezing: Freeze marinated (uncooked) steak in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling.

FAQs

1. Can I cook the steak on a stovetop?

Yes, use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and follow the same cooking times.

2. How long should I marinate the steak?

Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, aim for 4–8 hours.

3. What’s the best way to slice flank steak?

Always slice thinly against the grain to ensure tender pieces.

4. Can I use store-bought balsamic glaze?

Yes, it’s a convenient and delicious option for drizzling.

5. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Skirt steak or flat iron steak are excellent alternatives.

6. How do I prevent the steak from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and let the steak rest after grilling to retain juices.

7. Can I add other vegetables?

Grilled zucchini, roasted red peppers, or avocado make great additions.

8. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the balsamic glaze and marinade ingredients are gluten-free.

9. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Marinate the steak and prep the Caprese ingredients in advance, then grill and assemble just before serving.

10. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a light Chianti complements the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak Caprese is a delightful fusion of smoky, savory steak and fresh, vibrant Caprese ingredients. With its quick preparation and impressive presentation, this dish is perfect for entertaining or a special family dinner. Serve it with a crusty loaf of bread or over a bed of greens for a complete and satisfying meal. Try it today and savor the flavors of summer grilling with a gourmet twist!