Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I flipped the steaks on the grill, the sizzle brought me back to summer evenings spent with friends, laughter mingling with the aroma of charred meat and fresh herbs. One of my favorite dishes that perfectly captures this magic is Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing. This high-protein, low-carb delight showcases juicy, tender flank steak paired with ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with a sweet balsamic reduction. Not only is it quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, but it also transforms any gathering into a celebration of summer’s best flavors. Ready to impress your family and friends while enjoying a healthy meal? Let’s fire up that grill and explore this vibrant, mouthwatering recipe together! What Makes This Dish a Must-Try? Bold flavors come alive in this dish, where juicy grilled flank steak meets fresh Caprese ingredients for an unforgettable meal. Quick preparation means you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying summer evenings with loved ones. Versatile serving options allow for pairings with light salads or grilled veggies, making it perfect for any occasion. Health-conscious yet indulgent, this recipe is high in protein and low in carbs, catering to diverse dietary preferences. If you’re seeking fresh ideas, check out my delicious Garlic Butter Steak or explore the tangy goodness of Korean Ramen Grilled. Transform your dinner experience with this flavorful dish! Grilled Flank Steak Caprese Ingredients For the Steak • Flank Steak – A rich source of protein; choose USDA Choice for the best flavor. • Olive Oil – Helps keep the meat moist and enhances the flavor during grilling. • Garlic (minced) – Adds a savory depth; fresh garlic is always a great choice. • Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; opt for kosher or sea salt for a better texture. • Black Pepper – Adds a hint of spice; freshly cracked pepper gives the best flavor. For the Caprese Salad • Cherry Tomatoes – Provide sweetness and acidity; cut them in half for easier eating. • Fresh Mozzarella Balls – Adds creaminess; you can substitute with sliced large mozzarella if needed. • Fresh Basil (chopped) – Keeps things vibrant and fragrant; the freshest basil elevates the dish. For the Balsamic Dressing • Balsamic Glaze – Complements the dish with a sweet and tangy flavor; try reducing balsamic vinegar with honey for a homemade touch. Embrace the flavors of summer with this Grilled Flank Steak Caprese and enjoy a dish that will surely delight your guests! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Flank Steak Caprese Step 1: Marinate the Steak In a large zip-top bag, combine ¼ cup olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Add the flank steak, ensuring it’s well coated in the marinade. Seal the bag, removing excess air, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or for maximum flavor, up to 8 hours. This marination not only enhances taste but also tenderizes the meat for your Grilled Flank Steak Caprese. Step 2: Preheat the Grill About 15 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F to 450°F). Oil the grates to prevent sticking, using a paper towel dipped in oil, held with tongs. Ensure the grill is hot before placing the marinated flank steak on it. The high temperature will create beautiful grill marks and seal in the juices for flavor. Step 3: Grill the Steak Once the grill is preheated, remove the flank steak from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place it on the grill and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until a meat thermometer reads 130-135°F. Look for a nicely charred surface and juices pooling on top, indicating that your steak is ready for a satisfying Grilled Flank Steak Caprese. Step 4: Rest and Slice After grilling, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This technique is key to achieving tenderness and making your grilled masterpiece shine in the Caprese presentation. Step 5: Prepare the Caprese Salad In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes, 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, and ½ cup chopped fresh basil. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season lightly with salt to enhance the flavors. Toss gently until everything is well-coated. This vibrant Caprese salad perfectly complements the heartiness of the Grilled Flank Steak and adds a fresh touch. Step 6: Serve and Drizzle On a large platter, artfully arrange the sliced flank steak alongside the caprese salad. For the finishing touch, drizzle ¼ cup balsamic glaze over the meat and salad. The sweet and tangy glaze will elevate your Grilled Flank Steak Caprese, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate, perfect for summer dining with friends and family. Grilled Flank Steak Caprese Variations Let your creativity shine by customizing this dish with your favorite ingredients and flavors! Alternate Cuts: Swap flank steak for skirt or flat iron steak for similar flavors and textures. Herb Twist: Substitute fresh basil with arugula for a peppery kick or mint for a refreshing touch. Cheesy Delight: Use creamy burrata or ricotta instead of mozzarella for a rich creaminess that melts beautifully. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the Caprese salad for a zingy bite that elevates the flavor profile. Zesty Marinade: Incorporate lime or lemon juice into the marinade for a citrusy twist that brightens the steak’s flavor. As delightful as the main dish is, consider pairing it with a colorful side salad, like a vibrant Berry Caprese Salad for a refreshing contrast. This combination of tastes and textures will make for a memorable meal filled with summer vibrancy! Storage Tips for Grilled Flank Steak Caprese Room Temperature: It’s best to serve the Grilled Flank Steak Caprese immediately after preparation. Leftovers should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Fridge: Store leftover steak and salad components in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the freshness and flavors of each ingredient. Freezer: If you want to store the steak for a longer period, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It can last up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on a grill or stovetop. Reheating: To enjoy leftover steak, reheat it gently in a skillet over low heat or slice it and enjoy it cold in wraps or salads. The fresh Caprese elements are best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal taste. Make Ahead Options Preparing your Grilled Flank Steak Caprese in advance is an excellent way to save time on busy days! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours ahead, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply; simply place it in the marinade and refrigerate until ready to grill. The Caprese salad components—cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil—can be prepped 1-2 days in advance; store them separately in airtight containers and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, grill the marinated steak as directed, let it rest, slice it, and quickly toss the salad ingredients together. This way, you’ll have a delightful, restaurant-quality dish ready in no time! What to Serve with Grilled Flank Steak Caprese Elevate your summertime gatherings with delightful sides that perfectly balance the robust flavors of this juicy, hearty dish. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: These colorful skewers of bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms provide a smoky contrast and add delightful crunch. Perfect for soaking up the leftover balsamic glaze! Garlic Herb Rice: Light and fluffy rice infused with garlic and fresh herbs offers a lovely neutral base, letting the savory steak shine through without overpowering the meal. Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette brightens the plate, cutting through the richness of the steak and creamy mozzarella. It’s a fresh, zesty touch! Creamy Polenta: Smooth, buttery polenta serves as a comforting, creamy bed for the steak, absorbing the balsamic flavors and adding a rich texture to each bite. Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc beautifully complements the freshness of the Caprese elements while enhancing the steak’s savory notes. Perfect for warm evenings! Brownie Sundae: Finish with a decadent brownie sundae topped with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce, rounding off your meal with a sweet note that everyone will love. Fresh Fruit Salad: A lively fruit salad offers a refreshing sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory steak, making it a delightful palate cleanser to enjoy between bites. Expert Tips for Grilled Flank Steak Caprese Marinate Properly: For maximum flavor, marinate the flank steak for at least 1 hour; up to 8 hours is ideal. This enhances tenderness and infuses your Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with rich taste. Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked steak. Aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare; this keeps the meat juicy and tender. Slice Against the Grain: Always cut the steak against the grain after resting. This prevents toughness and ensures each bite is tender, making for a delightful Grilled Flank Steak Caprese experience. Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest mozzarella and basil for your Caprese salad. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and texture, making your dish shine. Serve Immediately: Enjoy the dish soon after preparation for the best texture and taste. Reheating can affect the quality of the steak and salad components. Grilled Flank Steak Caprese Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best flank steak? When selecting flank steak, look for USDA Choice or Prime cuts for optimal flavor and tenderness. The meat should have a bright red color with minimal dark spots or excessive marbling. If flank steak isn’t available, skirt steak or flat iron steak can be excellent alternatives that still provide great taste and texture. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover Grilled Flank Steak Caprese components separately in airtight containers. The steak can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, while the Caprese salad ingredients are best consumed within 1-2 days for freshness. Always refrigerate leftovers promptly, as they shouldn’t sit out for more than 2 hours. Can I freeze the grilled steak? Absolutely! To freeze leftover steak, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before gently warming it on a grill or stovetop, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. What should I do if my steak is tough? If you find that your grilled flank steak is tough, it may be due to slicing with the grain instead of against it. Always slice flank steak against the grain to break down the muscle fibers, which enhances tenderness. Also, marinating the steak for a longer time can help with softening the texture. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, the Grilled Flank Steak Caprese is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that your balsamic glaze is free from any gluten-containing additives. As always, check the packaging of your ingredients, especially those that might be less obvious, to ensure they meet your dietary needs. How can I incorporate other dietary needs into this dish? If you’re focusing on healthier alternatives, consider using reduced-fat mozzarella, or for a vegan variation, substitute with grilled portobello mushrooms for the steak and vegan cheese options. Fresh herbs can add great flavors without extra calories, making this dish adaptable for various dietary preferences while keeping the essence of the Grilled Flank Steak Caprese intact. Grilled Flank Steak Caprese: Summer's Juicy Flavor Duo No ratings yet Grilled Flank Steak Caprese combines juicy grilled steak, fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic dressing for a delightful summer dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsMarination Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Steak1 pound Flank Steak Choose USDA Choice for best flavor.¼ cup Olive Oil Helps keep the meat moist.3 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic is preferred.1 teaspoon Salt Kosher or sea salt recommended.½ teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly cracked gives best flavor.For the Caprese Salad2 cups Cherry Tomatoes Cut in half for easier eating.1 cup Fresh Mozzarella Balls Substitute with sliced large mozzarella if needed.½ cup Fresh Basil (chopped) The freshest basil elevates the dish.For the Balsamic Dressing¼ cup Balsamic Glaze Try reducing balsamic vinegar with honey for a homemade touch. Equipment grillMixing Bowlzip-top bagTongscutting board Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large zip-top bag, combine ¼ cup olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Add the flank steak, ensuring it’s well coated in the marinade. Seal the bag, removing excess air, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours.About 15 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F to 450°F). Oil the grates to prevent sticking.Once the grill is preheated, remove the flank steak from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place it on the grill and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare.After grilling, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice the steak thinly against the grain.In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes, 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, and ½ cup chopped fresh basil. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season lightly with salt.On a large platter, artfully arrange the sliced flank steak alongside the caprese salad. Drizzle ¼ cup balsamic glaze over the meat and salad. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesUsing fresh ingredients and proper marination will enhance the flavor of your Grilled Flank Steak Caprese. Serve immediately for the best experience. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
