
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-Packed Marinade : The balsamic glaze infuses the steak with deep, tangy flavor.
- Juicy & Tender : Flank steak is marinated and grilled to perfection for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Fresh Toppings : The Caprese-inspired topping adds brightness and balance to the rich steak.
- Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Versatile : Serve it as a main dish, in sandwiches, or over salads for endless possibilities.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 4–6
For the Steak:
- 1 1/2–2 lbs flank steak
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste
For the Caprese Topping:
- 2 large ripe tomatoes , sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese , sliced or torn into pieces
- Fresh basil leaves , torn or whole
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
- Extra virgin olive oil , for drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). If using a stovetop grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Grill the Steak
- Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels (this helps achieve a good sear). Discard any leftover marinade.
- Place the steak on the preheated grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side , or until it reaches your desired doneness (use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium).
- Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 4: Assemble the Caprese Topping
- Slice the rested steak thinly against the grain. Arrange the slices on a serving platter.
- Top the steak slices with alternating layers of tomato and mozzarella. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a light stream of extra virgin olive oil for added richness.
Step 5: Serve
- Season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Why This Recipe Works
- Balsamic Magic : The tangy, sweet balsamic glaze enhances the natural flavors of the steak while complementing the fresh toppings.
- Caprese Twist : The combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds freshness and balances the richness of the grilled meat.
- Grill Perfection : Flank steak is ideal for grilling, as it cooks quickly and absorbs marinades beautifully.
Variations to Try
- Add Heat : Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle hot honey over the finished dish for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Swap : Use burrata instead of mozzarella for an ultra-creamy texture.
- Gluten-Free Option : Naturally gluten-free—no substitutions needed!
- Vegan Version : Substitute the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices.
- Herbaceous Touch : Add chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the marinade for extra depth.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Skip Resting : Letting the steak rest ensures it stays juicy and tender.
- Thin Slicing : Always slice flank steak against the grain to make it easier to chew.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the steak.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Serve sliced steak over a bed of arugula with a poached egg for a hearty brunch option.
- Party Platter : Pair with grilled vegetables, crusty bread, or a charcuterie board for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Balsamic Caprese Grilled Flank Steak is a celebration of bold, savory flavors and fresh, vibrant ingredients, offering a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. With its quick prep time, customizable options, and endless charm, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.
Your Turn! Have you ever made flank steak or experimented with Italian-inspired dishes? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. π