Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

Introduction

Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is a fresh, flavorful, and hearty dish that combines tender, juicy flank steak marinated in a balsamic vinegar and herb mixture with the crispness of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and basil. This recipe offers a satisfying, mouthwatering twist on the traditional Caprese salad by adding the rich, savory taste of grilled flank steak. Perfect for family dinners, backyard barbecues, or special occasions, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare and features a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Perfect for:

• Family gatherings and dinner parties
• Barbecues and grilling season
• A fresh, yet hearty main course
• Those craving a delicious, protein-packed meal
• Fans of Italian-inspired flavors with a unique twist

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese will become your new favorite dish:

• Flavor-Packed Marinade: The balsamic vinegar marinade brings a perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness, infusing the flank steak with deep, savory flavors.
• Tender Flank Steak: The flank steak becomes incredibly tender and juicy after marinating and grilling, providing a delicious contrast to the fresh ingredients.
• Fresh and Vibrant: The pairing of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have an elegant and flavorful dish that can be served up in no time.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the marinade or add your favorite toppings to personalize this recipe to your taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes
• Grilling Time: 5-7 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese:

• 1 ½ pounds flank steak (ensure it’s Halal-certified if needed)
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• Balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)

Ingredient Highlights

• Flank Steak: Flank steak is a lean cut of beef that, when marinated properly, becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. It’s perfect for grilling and works well in this recipe with the balsamic marinade.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar adds a tangy-sweet richness to the marinade, enhancing the flavor of the steak. It also helps tenderize the meat.
• Fresh Mozzarella: The creamy, mild flavor of fresh mozzarella pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of the grilled steak and the tangy balsamic glaze.
• Fresh Basil: The fragrant, slightly peppery flavor of fresh basil adds a burst of color and flavor to the dish, making it feel light and refreshing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare the perfect Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese:

Prepare the Marinade:

1. Combine the Marinade Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the tanginess of the balsamic vinegar.
2. Marinate the Steak: Place the flank steak in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the dish or bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, for maximum flavor absorption.

Grill the Flank Steak:

3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are well-oiled to prevent the steak from sticking.
4. Grill the Steak: Remove the flank steak from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the steak for 4-7 minutes per side, depending on your preferred level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F, and for medium, go for 140°F.
5. Rest the Steak: Once the steak is grilled to your desired doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak even more tender and flavorful.

Assemble the Caprese:

6. Slice the Steak: After resting, slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This helps ensure the steak is tender and easy to eat.
7. Assemble the Salad: On a serving platter, layer the sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and grilled flank steak. Sprinkle with freshly chopped basil and drizzle with balsamic glaze, if desired, for an extra layer of sweetness and tang.

Serve:

8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese immediately. It pairs wonderfully with a light side salad, grilled vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread.

How to Serve

Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese can be served in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion:

• As a Main Course: Serve it on its own with a side of roasted vegetables or grilled potatoes for a hearty meal.
• With a Light Salad: Pair it with a simple green salad with olive oil and lemon dressing for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the steak.
• For Barbecues: Serve it as a crowd-pleasing dish at your next barbecue or grilling party. It’s sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors.
• On Toasted Bread: Serve the steak and Caprese ingredients on a slice of toasted baguette or ciabatta bread for a delicious open-faced sandwich or appetizer.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to make your Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese even better:

• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If you have the time, marinate the flank steak for longer (up to 2 hours) to allow the flavors to really penetrate the meat. The marinade also acts as a tenderizer.
• Grill Marks for Extra Flavor: To get the perfect grill marks, make sure the grill is preheated and well-oiled. Avoid moving the steak around while grilling so you can get those signature grill lines.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil truly shines in this recipe. Make sure to use fresh basil for the best flavor, as it adds a vibrant and aromatic note to the dish.
• Slice Against the Grain: Always slice the flank steak against the grain (the direction of the muscle fibers) to ensure tenderness. This will make the steak easier to chew and enhance the overall eating experience.

Recipe Variations

Here are some variations of Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese that you can try to mix things up:

• Grilled Chicken Caprese: If you prefer chicken over beef, use chicken breast or thighs instead of flank steak. Marinate and grill as you would the steak, then follow the same Caprese assembly.
• Balsamic Grilled Tofu Caprese: For a vegetarian option, substitute tofu for the flank steak. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then marinate and grill it for a satisfying, plant-based meal.
• Pesto Caprese: Swap the basil in the salad for fresh pesto for an extra burst of herbaceous flavor. You can drizzle pesto on top of the grilled steak or toss it with the fresh tomatoes and mozzarella.
• Caprese with Avocado: Add slices of ripe avocado to the Caprese salad for an extra creamy texture and a dose of healthy fats.
• Spicy Caprese: Add a few slices of fresh jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the Caprese salad for a spicy kick.

Freezing and Storage for Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, here’s how to store and freeze it for later:

• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled Caprese as the fresh ingredients may not hold up well after thawing. However, you can freeze the grilled steak separately in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover grilled steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have any leftover Caprese ingredients (tomatoes, mozzarella, basil), keep them separate from the steak and refrigerate. Assemble the dish fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Special Equipment

Here are a few special tools you may find useful while making Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese:

• Grill or Grill Pan: A grill is essential for achieving the perfect grilled flavor and texture. A grill pan can also work if you’re cooking indoors.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure your flank steak is grilled to your desired doneness, a meat thermometer will help you get it just right.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the flank steak against the grain to ensure it’s tender and easy to eat.
• Basting Brush: If you’re using balsamic glaze or any other sauce, a basting brush makes it easy to apply a thin, even layer.
• Mixing Bowl: A bowl for mixing the marinade ensures all the ingredients are well combined before coating the steak.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
   Yes, you can substitute flank steak with other cuts like skirt steak or sirloin. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the steak.
2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using grilled tofu or tempeh instead of flank steak.
3. Can I use bottled balsamic glaze?
   Yes, bottled balsamic glaze can be used for convenience, but homemade balsamic glaze has a fresher, more customizable flavor.
4. Can I prepare the steak in advance?
   Yes, you can marinate the steak up to 2 hours in advance. However, it’s best to assemble the Caprese salad just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure the balsamic glaze (if used) is gluten-free, as some may contain gluten.

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Conclusion

Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is the perfect dish for any occasion. It combines the rich, savory flavors of grilled steak with the fresh, light components of a traditional Caprese salad, making it an ideal balance of indulgence and refreshment. Whether you’re grilling for a special occasion, hosting a summer barbecue, or simply craving a flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Quick to prepare and easily customizable, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the delicious combination of balsamic-marinated steak, fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil—it’s a meal that everyone will love!