Transform your grilling game with my Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese! This dish marries the rich flavors of marinated flank steak with the refreshing zest of a classic Caprese salad. Perfect for summer nights or family gatherings, it’s simple to make and packs a flavor punch. Ready to impress your guests? Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this delightful feast!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 ½ lbs flank steak
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
Caprese Salad Ingredients
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, halved
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, gently torn
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Kitchen Tools Required
– Grill or grill pan
– Mixing bowl
– Meat thermometer
– Serving platter
The main ingredients for Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese include flank steak and balsamic vinegar. The steak provides rich flavor, while the balsamic adds a sweet, tangy touch. Honey balances the acidity, making the marinade delightful. Simple seasonings like garlic powder, black pepper, and sea salt enhance the taste.
The Caprese salad ingredients complement the steak. Cherry tomatoes bring sweetness, and fresh mozzarella adds creaminess. Torn basil leaves give a fragrant note. Extra virgin olive oil ties everything together, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
You will need a grill or grill pan to cook the steak. A mixing bowl helps combine the marinade. A meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness. Lastly, a serving platter shows off your meal beautifully.
For the complete step-by-step preparation of this dish, refer to the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Flank Steak
– In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– Place the flank steak in a resealable bag.
– Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it coats every inch.
– Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Preparing the Grill
– Preheat your grill to medium-high. Aim for around 400-450°F (200-230°C).
– After marinating, take the flank steak out of the bag.
– Let any excess marinade drip off, then discard the leftover marinade.
Grilling the Steak
– Place the flank steak directly on the hot grill.
– Grill for about 5-7 minutes on one side.
– Flip and grill for another 5-7 minutes.
– Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare.
– After grilling, transfer the steak to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Preparing the Caprese Salad
– In a medium-sized bowl, combine:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, halved
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, gently torn
– Drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the mixture.
– Gently toss everything to coat evenly.
Serving the Dish
– Slice the rested flank steak thinly against the grain.
– Arrange the steak on a serving platter.
– Place the Caprese salad next to the steak.
– Drizzle extra balsamic vinegar over the dish if desired.
For the full recipe, refer to the instructions above.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Marinade
Marinating your flank steak is key. It enhances flavor and tenderness. Aim for at least one hour, but four hours is best. If you’re short on time, consider using soy sauce or citrus juice. These alternatives add a tasty twist to the dish.
Grilling Guidelines
To get those perfect grill marks, place the steak on the hot grill and leave it untouched for a few minutes. This allows char to form. Flare-ups can happen when fat drips onto the flames. To avoid this, trim excess fat from your steak and keep a spray bottle of water handy.
Presentation Tips
For a stunning plate, arrange the steak slices on one side and the Caprese salad on the other. This creates a visual balance. Fresh basil leaves make a great garnish. Drizzling balsamic reduction adds a touch of elegance and extra flavor to your dish.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
If you want to switch things up, try chicken or pork. Both meats grill well and soak up flavors nicely. For chicken, use boneless breasts or thighs. Marinate them just like the flank steak. For pork, consider pork tenderloin for a tender bite.
For vegetarian options, you can grill portobello mushrooms or eggplant. Both have a meaty texture that works great with the balsamic marinade. Just slice them thickly, marinate, and grill. They will add a unique twist to your meal.
Different Salad Additions
You can enhance your Caprese salad with different ingredients. Adding creamy avocado gives a rich flavor and texture. Simply slice the avocado and toss it with the tomatoes and mozzarella.
Another great option is arugula. This peppery green adds a nice bite. Substitute mozzarella with burrata for a creamier experience. Burrata melts beautifully and enhances the dish’s richness.
Balsamic Sauce Enhancements
To elevate your dish, consider making a balsamic reduction. Simply simmer balsamic vinegar until it thickens. This sweet and tangy drizzle adds depth to the flavors.
For an infused balsamic sauce, add herbs like rosemary or thyme while reducing. This adds extra flavor layers to the sauce. You can also try infusing the vinegar with garlic or chili for a kick.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps provided earlier. Enjoy experimenting with these variations!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. This will help maintain flavor and texture. Place the steak in one container and the Caprese salad in another. This way, the salad won’t get soggy. Refrigerate them right after serving. They should last for about three days.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating steak, use gentle heat. The best method is to warm it in a skillet over low heat. This keeps the meat juicy. Avoid using a microwave as it may dry out the steak. For the Caprese salad, do not heat it. Just serve it cold for the best taste. You can add a drizzle of olive oil before enjoying.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze the grilled flank steak, but the Caprese salad does not freeze well. Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This keeps the meat from getting freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy your flavorful steak later!
FAQs
How long should I marinate the flank steak?
You should marinate the flank steak for at least 1 hour. For best results, let it sit for up to 4 hours. This longer time helps the meat soak up all the great flavors.
What is the best cooking temperature for flank steak?
The ideal grill temperature for flank steak is between 400-450°F (200-230°C). This medium-high heat gives you a nice sear while keeping the inside juicy.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make this recipe in advance. Marinate the steak and store it in the fridge. You can also prepare the Caprese salad early. Just keep it in a separate container to stay fresh.
What can I serve with Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese?
You can serve this dish with a variety of sides. Grilled vegetables, garlic bread, or a light green salad work well. For drinks, try a chilled red wine or sparkling water.
Can I use a different vinegar for the marinade?
Yes, you can use other vinegars. Red wine vinegar adds a nice tang. Apple cider vinegar gives a fruity twist. Each vinegar brings a unique flavor to your steak.
This post covered how to make Balsamic Grilled Flank Steak Caprese. We explored key ingredients, cooking steps, and handy kitchen tools. Marinating the steak enhances its flavor. Grilling adds that perfect smoky taste.
Remember to experiment with recipes and variations. Trying different proteins or salad add-ons can lead to new favorites. Follow storage tips to enjoy leftovers later. With practice, you’ll master this dish and impress your friends!
