This Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak is a stunning fusion of smoky, juicy grilled flank steak and fresh Italian flavors. Topped with cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and drizzled with tangy balsamic glaze, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for summer grilling or an elegant dinner, it’s quick to prepare, loaded with flavor, and ideal for sharing with family or guests.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 1 lb flank steak

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (for drizzling)

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

2. Marinate the Steak: Place the steak in a resealable bag or dish, pour in the marinade, coat evenly, and refrigerate for 1–4 hours.

3. Preheat Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high and oil the grates.

4. Grill the Steak: Remove steak from marinade and grill for 5–7 minutes per side or until desired doneness (130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium).

5. Rest and Slice: Let steak rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.

6. Prepare Caprese Topping: In a bowl, gently combine tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

7. Assemble: Arrange sliced steak on a platter, top with Caprese mixture, and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately.

Nutrients (Per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 350 kcal

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 23g

• Saturated Fat: 8g

• Carbohydrates: 6g

• Sugar: 3g

• Fiber: 1g

• Cholesterol: 80mg

• Sodium: 520mg

Why Flank Steak is the Perfect Choice

Flank steak is a lean, flavorful cut of beef that grills quickly and absorbs marinades beautifully. It’s ideal for quick summer meals because it requires minimal preparation yet delivers big on texture and flavor. The key to cooking flank steak well lies in marinating and slicing it properly. A good marinade, like the one in this recipe featuring olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard, helps to tenderize the meat while infusing it with flavor. After grilling, slicing the steak thinly against the grain ensures a tender bite every time.

Unlike ribeye or filet mignon, which are prized for their tenderness and marbling, flank steak brings a more pronounced beefy flavor. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice quality, making it a smart choice for family meals or casual backyard gatherings. Plus, its wide, flat shape makes it perfect for serving on platters with colorful toppings like the Caprese mixture.

The Beauty of a Caprese-Inspired Topping

The Caprese topping is where the Italian inspiration really comes to life. Traditionally made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, Caprese salad is a celebration of simplicity and balance. When paired with grilled steak, this topping adds brightness and creaminess that complements the meat’s smoky intensity. The sweetness of cherry tomatoes contrasts beautifully with the savory steak, while the mozzarella offers a creamy texture that brings all the components together.

Using fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) and halving them creates the perfect size for mingling with halved cherry tomatoes. Fresh basil, chopped just before serving, adds a fragrant, peppery note that elevates the entire dish. When these ingredients come together atop warm slices of grilled steak, they become more than a salad—they become a warm-weather feast that’s rich in flavor and visual appeal.

The Impact of Balsamic Glaze

Balsamic glaze is the finishing touch that transforms this dish from simple to stunning. Made by reducing balsamic vinegar until it becomes thick and syrupy, the glaze adds a punch of sweet acidity that balances the fat of the steak and the creaminess of the mozzarella. Drizzled lightly over the assembled platter, it creates a glossy sheen and introduces a gourmet flourish that feels both intentional and indulgent.

If you don’t have balsamic glaze on hand, it’s easy to make by simmering balsamic vinegar with a touch of brown sugar until it reduces. The result is a condiment you’ll want to use on everything—from grilled vegetables to roasted meats to even desserts like strawberries and ice cream.

Ideal for Grilling Season and Beyond

Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak is tailor-made for grilling season, when outdoor cooking becomes a joy and fresh produce is at its peak. However, this dish is just as suitable for year-round enjoyment thanks to its adaptability. If grilling outdoors isn’t an option, the steak can be cooked on a stovetop grill pan or under a broiler with equally delicious results. The Caprese topping requires no cooking, making this a quick-prep option that fits seamlessly into busy schedules.

Because it’s a one-platter dish, it also makes for easy serving and cleanup. Whether you’re hosting friends on the patio, preparing a romantic dinner at home, or simply feeding your family with flair, this recipe checks all the boxes for flavor, ease, and presentation.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This steak pairs beautifully with light, summery sides like grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad. For a more indulgent spread, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or creamy polenta. To keep the focus on the freshness of the Caprese elements, opt for sides that won’t compete with their bold yet delicate flavors.

For drinks, a glass of Chianti, Pinot Noir, or even a dry rosé would enhance the meal without overpowering it. The acidity in these wines echoes the tartness of the balsamic glaze and complements the richness of the steak.

If you’re looking to scale this dish for a larger group, it doubles easily. Simply increase the quantity of steak and toppings and serve on a larger platter. You can also serve it deconstructed, letting guests assemble their own bites with slices of steak, mozzarella, tomato, and basil.

Health Benefits and Nutrition Profile

This recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious. With approximately 350 calories per serving, it offers a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Flank steak provides a generous source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which support energy metabolism and immune health. Mozzarella adds calcium and protein, while tomatoes contribute vitamin C and antioxidants such as lycopene.

Using olive oil and fresh ingredients makes this dish a heart-healthy option, especially when paired with a vegetable-rich side. The moderate use of cheese and balsamic glaze ensures that the dish remains light, making it suitable for a variety of diets. For a lower-fat version, consider using part-skim mozzarella or omitting the oil in the Caprese topping.

Conclusion

Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak is a dish that proves gourmet doesn’t have to mean complicated. With its smoky, juicy steak base and vibrant Italian-inspired topping, it delivers a restaurant-quality experience using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s versatile, seasonal, and packed with flavor, making it a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

This dish captures the best of both worlds—the indulgence of a perfectly grilled steak and the light, fresh flavors of a Caprese salad. Whether you’re looking for a showstopping entrée for your next dinner party or a quick yet impressive weeknight meal, this recipe offers something for everyone. It’s a celebration of contrast and balance: warm and cool, savory and sweet, hearty and refreshing.

Once you try Balsamic Caprese Grilled Steak, it just might become your signature summer dish—and a reason to fire up the grill even when it’s not BBQ season.