Balsamic Grilled Steak Caprese Recipe

Welcome to the ultimate summer dish: Grilled Steak Caprese Balsamic! This recipe is a symphony of flavors where juicy steak meets cool mozzarella and charred tomatoes, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic reduction. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a special weeknight treat, this dish is sure to impress without keeping you stuck in the kitchen for hours.

I first tried this Grilled Steak Caprese Balsamic recipe during a laid-back family barbecue, and it quickly became a crowd favorite. The combination of sweet tomatoes, salty cheese, and savory steak perfectly captures the essence of summer on a plate. Each bite, adorned with fresh basil straight from the garden, is a celebration of seasonal ingredients that bring joy to your taste buds.

If you’re looking for a versatile yet show-stopping dish that marries the best of Italian tradition with American barbecue flair, this Grilled Steak Caprese Balsamic is the answer. From using quality flank steak to experimenting with different cheeses and seasonal produce, this recipe invites you to get creative and savor the vibrant flavors of summer in every bite.

Quick Benefits

• Tender and Flavorful: Flank steak absorbs marinades well, resulting in rich, beefy flavor that pairs perfectly with the Caprese elements.
• Fresh and Easy: The dish combines juicy steak, cool mozzarella, and charred tomatoes for a fresh, exciting meal that’s simple to prepare.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Recipe offers ingredient substitutions like different cuts of steak, cheeses, and sweeteners, making it adaptable to personal preferences and ingredient availability.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Components can be stored separately, allowing for easy meal prep with juicy steak that stays tender for up to three days.

Why You’ll Love This Balsamic Grilled Steak Caprese Recipe Recipe

• The combination of juicy steak, cool mozzarella, charred tomatoes, and balsamic reduction creates a dish bursting with big flavors that feel fresh and exciting.
• Perfect for summer dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is easy to make yet impressive in presentation, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
• The sweet, sun-warmed tomatoes paired with salty cheese and steak evoke the essence of summer on a plate, offering a taste that’s both comforting and vibrant.
• Store leftovers easily with components in separate airtight containers, ensuring the steak stays juicy for up to three days while still maintaining excellent flavor.
• The flexibility in ingredient swaps (such as using skirt steak, burrata cheese, or maple syrup) allows for personalization based on what’s available, making it adaptable to individual preferences.
• With tips on presentation ideas like serving on a bed of arugula or preparing mini steak caprese sliders, the recipe offers creative variations for different servings or occasions.
• Embrace the fusion of Italian and American cuisines with this twist on the classic caprese salad, elevating the dish with a modern touch through the balsamic reduction.
• Experiment with seasonal variations like using heirloom tomatoes or grilling peaches, along with alternative herbs like arugula or mint, to add an exciting spin to the traditional flavors.
• The ability to freeze grilled and sliced steak for easy reheating makes this recipe a convenient option for quick meals or unexpected gatherings, without compromising on taste or quality.
• Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this grilled steak caprese recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite, bringing the essence of summer to your table effortlessly.

Ingredients for Balsamic Grilled Steak Caprese Recipe

Marinade

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 large garlic clove, minced

Main components

• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
• 2 pounds flank steak
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, thinly sliced
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, diced

Pro Tips for Balsamic Grilled Steak Caprese Recipe

Pro Tip 1: For a perfectly marinated and juicy steak, let the flank steak sit in the balsamic marinade for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat fully, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Pro Tip 2: When grilling the steak, make sure to let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This gives the juices a chance to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and succulent bite with every slice.

Pro Tip 3: To elevate the presentation of your grilled steak caprese, consider drizzling a little extra balsamic reduction over the finished dish just before serving. This not only adds a beautiful glossy finish but also intensifies the balsamic flavor for an extra pop of taste.

How to Make Balsamic Grilled Steak Caprese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Flank Steak

Place flank steak in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the marinade over the steak, making sure it is fully coated. Refrigerate, covered, for at least 8 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F.

Step 4: Grill the Steak

Remove steak from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill for 3 to 5 minutes per side until desired doneness. Rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Grill the Tomatoes

Grill cherry or grape tomatoes for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and blistered.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Cut flank steak into thin strips against the grain. Place on a serving platter and add grilled tomatoes, diced mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with leftover marinade and serve promptly.

Storage Tips

To store the finished dish, it is best to keep the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The grilled steak can stay juicy for up to three days when stored this way. However, it is recommended to add fresh mozzarella each time you assemble the dish, as it is best enjoyed fresh. Grilled tomatoes may soften a bit in the fridge but will still taste delicious when combined with the other components.

If you have leftovers, consider freezing the grilled and sliced steak in a zip-top bag. This allows for easy reheating in a pan when you want to pull together a quick caprese platter. However, it is not advisable to freeze the mozzarella or tomatoes, as their textures may suffer. By storing and handling the components properly, you can enjoy this grilled steak caprese dish multiple times and savor its delicious flavors over several days.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have flank steak available, skirt steak or flat iron steak can be suitable substitutes as they offer a similar texture and flavor profile. Additionally, if you’re out of honey, maple syrup can be used as a replacement in the balsamic marinade for a touch of sweetness. When it comes to the cheese component, burrata cheese can stand in for fresh mozzarella, or you can opt for tearing a large ball of mozzarella into small pieces for a similar effect.

Feel free to experiment with different types of tomatoes if cherry or grape tomatoes aren’t on hand. Heirloom tomatoes, particularly in late summer, can add a vibrant burst of color to the dish. For a unique twist, consider grilling peaches alongside tomatoes to infuse a hint of sweetness and complexity. If basil is out of season, arugula or mint can be used as a flavorful substitute to complement the dish’s overall taste.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider assembling individual steak caprese skewers by layering bite-sized pieces of grilled steak, cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella onto small skewers. Drizzle a little balsamic reduction over the skewers and garnish with fresh basil before serving. This presentation is perfect for parties or gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy these delicious flavors in a convenient and visually appealing way.

Another serving idea is to build a vibrant steak caprese salad bowl by tossing arugula with grilled steak slices, cherry tomatoes, diced fresh mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle the balsamic reduction dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve the salad in a large bowl or individual portions for a light and refreshing meal that showcases the summery flavors of this dish.

FAQs for Balsamic Grilled Steak Caprese Recipe

Can I use a different cut of meat if I cannot find flank steak?

If you cannot find flank steak, try skirt steak or flat iron for a similar texture and flavor.

Can I substitute honey with another ingredient?

Yes, if you are out of honey, you can use maple syrup as a substitute in the balsamic marinade.

Can I use prepared balsamic glaze instead of making my own balsamic reduction?

Yes, prepared balsamic glaze can be used as a shortcut, but making your own with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey adds a fresh touch to the dish.

How should I store leftovers of this grilled steak caprese dish?

If you have leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The steak stays juicy for up to three days, mozzarella is best added fresh each time, and the grilled tomatoes will soften but still taste great.

Conclusion

Grilled Steak Caprese Balsamic is truly a celebration of summer on a plate, blending the smoky goodness of grilled steak with the fresh and vibrant flavors of caprese salad. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. The balsamic reduction adds a touch of sophistication to this classic combination, making it feel both comforting and special.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your ingredients and presentation when making Grilled Steak Caprese Balsamic. Experiment with different types of cheese, seasonal produce, or even try grilling peaches alongside the tomatoes for a unique twist. This recipe is versatile and forgiving, so feel free to tailor it to your preferences and what’s available in your kitchen. And remember, the joy of cooking lies in sharing delicious meals with loved ones, so invite your friends and family to gather around the table and savor every bite of this delightful dish.

Balsamic Grilled Steak Caprese Recipe

“Juicy grilled steak meets fresh caprese salad with a balsamic twist – a showstopping yet effortless dish perfect for weeknights or gatherings.”

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Prep Time20 min

Cook Time10 min

Total Time30 min

CuisineItalian American

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings (1 large platter)

Ingredients

Marinade

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 large garlic clove, minced

Main components

• 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
• 2 pounds flank steak
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, thinly sliced
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, diced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl until well combined.
2. Marinate the Flank Steak: Place flank steak in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the marinade over the steak, making sure it is fully coated. Refrigerate, covered, for at least 8 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F.
4. Grill the Steak: Remove steak from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill for 3 to 5 minutes per side until desired doneness. Rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing.
5. Grill the Tomatoes: Grill cherry or grape tomatoes for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and blistered.
6. Assemble and Serve: Cut flank steak into thin strips against the grain. Place on a serving platter and add grilled tomatoes, diced mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with leftover marinade and serve promptly.