Name: Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds flank steak; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups cherry tomatoes; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls; ½ cup fresh basil, chopped; 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 50 reviews

If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances smoky richness, fresh garden flavors, and a tangy-sweet pop, then let me introduce you to the incredible Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing Recipe. This dish brings together tender grilled flank steak with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all tied together with a luscious balsamic glaze that elevates each bite. Whether you’re after a healthy weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next barbecue, this recipe is a total game-changer that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white plate on a white marbled surface. On the plate, there are several slices of cooked meat arranged in a semi-circle, each slice showing a dark brown grilled outside and a pink inside. Next to the meat, there is a layer of small red cherry tomatoes and white mozzarella balls, mixed with chopped green basil leaves. A dark sauce is drizzled over the meat and some parts of the plate. The glossy texture of the sauce contrasts with the matte look of the meat, tomatoes, and cheese. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The secret behind this Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each element plays a starring role, contributing freshness, creaminess, and that signature tangy finish to the plate.

1½ pounds flank steak: Choose a well-marbled flank for maximum flavor and tenderness after grilling.
3 tablespoons olive oil: A good quality olive oil ensures your marinade coats the steak beautifully and adds richness.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic amplifies the savory depth of the marinade with a bit of punch.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural flavors in the steak and salad.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and balances the sweetness of the balsamic glaze.
2 cups cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they offer a vibrant color and fresh burst in every bite.
8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls: The creamy mozzarella provides a cooling, luxurious texture to complement the steak.
½ cup fresh basil, chopped: Basil’s fragrant herbal notes brighten the entire dish and make it irresistibly aromatic.
3 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar): This sweet-tart drizzle is the magic touch that pulls all the flavors together beautifully.

How to Make Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Flank Steak

Start by whisking together olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Add the flank steak and make sure it’s completely coated in the marinade. Pop it in the refrigerator for at least an hour—longer if you can—so the steak soaks up all those flavors. This step is what infuses the meat with its irresistible savory notes.

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. When ready, pull the steak from the marinade and place it directly on the grill. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, depending on how you like your steak done. The goal is to get those beautiful grill marks that bring smoky depth, all while keeping the meat juicy.

Step 3: Rest and Slice

Once grilled, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting locks in the juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. Remember to slice the flank steak against the grain—this technique is key to achieving the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Caprese Salad

While the steak rests, toss together the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped fresh basil in a bowl. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt to season. This fresh Caprese creates the perfect balance to the rich steak, offering juicy, creamy, and herbaceous elements all in one bite.

Step 5: Assemble and Drizzle with Balsamic

Arrange the sliced flank steak alongside or atop the Caprese salad on a serving platter. Just before serving, generously drizzle the entire dish with your balsamic glaze or reduced balsamic vinegar. This final touch adds the luscious, tangy-sweet dimension that truly makes this Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing Recipe unforgettable.

How to Serve Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing Recipe

A white plate filled with slices of medium-rare steak arranged in a fan shape on one side, showing a pink center and seared brown edges. On the other side, there are small round white balls of mozzarella cheese mixed with small bright red cherry tomatoes, topped with fresh green basil strips and a drizzle of dark brown balsamic glaze. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Want to elevate the presentation? Sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper and a few extra torn basil leaves over the top for a burst of color and fragrance. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also add that professional finish and an enhanced crunch.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pair it with grilled asparagus, a crisp green salad, or some crusty garlic bread to round out your meal. The lightness of the Caprese paired with the hearty steak allows you to keep sides fresh and simple, never overshadowing the star of the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning dinner party, serve this salad-steak combo on a large wooden board or rustic platter to bring a casual, farm-to-table vibe. Alternatively, layer the steak and Caprese into individual mason jars for an adorable, portable presentation perfect for picnics or outdoor gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover steak and Caprese salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. The steak will stay tender if sliced thinly, and the salad components will remain fresh for up to two days. Keep the balsamic dressing separate until ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

While flank steak freezes well, the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes do not fare as nicely after thawing. If you plan to freeze leftovers, slice the cooked steak and freeze it separately in a vacuum-sealed bag. Thaw gently in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the steak slices gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or briefly in a microwave, just until warmed through to avoid drying out. Refresh the Caprese salad with new basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving, so the flavors remain bright and fresh.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal due to its flavor and quick cooking time, skirt steak or hanger steak work wonderfully as well. Just adjust grilling time according to the cut thickness.

How do I make my own balsamic glaze?

Reducing balsamic vinegar with a touch of honey over low heat until it thickens into a syrupy consistency is easy and yields a homemade balsamic glaze bursting with flavor.

Is it necessary to marinate the steak?

Marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness, but if you’re short on time, seasoning well and grilling directly still delivers a delicious result.

Can I prepare this dish indoors?

Definitely! If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or broiler works great for cooking the steak. Just watch closely for char and cook to your preferred doneness.

Can I substitute fresh mozzarella balls with something else?

Fresh mozzarella slices from a ball are a fine alternative, or you could use burrata for an even creamier texture. Avoid shredded mozzarella as it won’t provide the same fresh taste or texture.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Flank Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing Recipe is such a joy to make and even more rewarding to eat. With its beautiful colors, delicious layers of flavor, and simple preparation, it’s become a favorite in my kitchen and I’m sure it will become one in yours too. Give it a try next time you want to impress without stress—you really can’t go wrong with this winning combo!