Chef Mitchell preparing Grilled Steak Caprese Delight
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered my passion for this dish while visiting Italy, where the freshness of ingredients made a lasting impression. After experimenting with different flavors and techniques, I perfected this recipe that embodies the essence of Italian cooking. It's become a family favorite, and I love sharing it with friends during summer barbecues. The vibrant colors and delicious taste always bring smiles to the table."

With over a decade of experience in Italian cuisine, I specialize in crafting authentic dishes that celebrate fresh ingredients. My culinary journey began in a bustling Italian kitchen, where I learned the art of flavor and presentation. I take pride in creating dinner recipes that are easy to replicate yet full of flavor.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Grilled Steak Caprese Delight served on a plate

Why This Grilled Steak Caprese Delight Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The marinated flank steak is grilled to perfection, ensuring a juicy, flavorful bite. The freshness of the caprese salad, with ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, complements the savory steak, creating a delightful contrast.

The technique of marinating the steak not only enhances its flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making it incredibly juicy. Grilling at the right temperature ensures that you achieve those beautiful grill marks while keeping the inside perfectly cooked. This recipe is a celebration of simple, quality ingredients.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, allow the steak to marinate for a few hours or even overnight. This enhances the depth of flavor and tenderizes the meat further. Always let the steak rest after grilling, as this allows the juices to redistribute for a more succulent bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the steak and marinate it a day in advance. Just grill it fresh before serving. The caprese salad can also be made ahead; just toss it together right before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

If you can't find flank steak, you can substitute it with skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye. Each will impart a slightly different flavor and tenderness but will work well with this recipe.

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F. Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly once removed from the grill.

Yes, you can freeze the grilled steak. Ensure it is wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil and stored in an airtight container. It is best enjoyed within three months.

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. A light pasta dish or a glass of red wine would also complement the flavors wonderfully.

When stored in an airtight container, the Grilled Steak Caprese Delight will last for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

You can prepare the marinade and steak ahead of time, but it's best to grill the steak fresh to maintain its juiciness. The caprese salad can be prepped in advance as well; just assemble it right before serving.

To reheat the steak, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a skillet on medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The steak is dry and lacks moisture.

Solution: Ensure not to overcook the steak and let it rest after grilling to allow juices to redistribute. Marinating also helps retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The exterior of the steak doesn't have a good sear.

Solution: Make sure your grill is hot enough before placing the steak on it. Avoid flipping it too often to allow for good caramelization.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The steak is overcooked and tough.

Prevention: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Remove the steak from the grill when it’s 5 degrees below your target temperature.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The center of the steak is undercooked.

Recovery: If you encounter this, you can return the steak to the grill for a few more minutes until the desired temperature is reached.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The outside of the steak is burnt while the inside is undercooked.

Prevention: Make sure to control the grill's heat and move the steak to a cooler part of the grill if it's browning too quickly.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If too sweet, add a pinch of salt or a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If too salty, serve with a side of bland starch like rice or potatoes to absorb some saltiness.

Bland: If bland, add more seasoning or a drizzle of balsamic reduction to enhance the flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Grilled Steak Caprese Delight

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Steak Caprese Delight

The key ingredients for this recipe include high-quality flank steak, which adds rich flavor and tenderness when grilled correctly. Fresh mozzarella and ripe cherry tomatoes provide a burst of freshness that complements the savory steak. Additionally, aromatic basil ties all the flavors together, making this dish truly Italian.

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is crucial for achieving the best results. Look for tomatoes that are in season for maximum sweetness and mozzarella that is creamy and flavorful. The better the ingredients, the more delicious your Grilled Steak Caprese Delight will be.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Flank Steak: Choose flank steak that has a nice marbling of fat for flavor and tenderness. Make sure to cut against the grain for the best texture when serving.
  • Fresh Mozzarella: Opt for fresh mozzarella that is soft and creamy. Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it lacks the flavor and texture of fresh varieties.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Select ripe cherry tomatoes that are firm and vibrant in color. They should have a sweet aroma, indicating they are at peak ripeness.
Cooking process for Grilled Steak Caprese Delight

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Grilled Steak Caprese Delight is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Start by marinating the steak to infuse it with flavor and tenderness. Preheating the grill is essential for achieving the perfect sear.

After grilling, let the steak rest to ensure juiciness, and while it rests, prepare the caprese salad. This refreshing salad adds a beautiful contrast and balance to the savory steak, making the dish a delightful experience.

Key Technique for Perfect Grilled Steak Caprese Delight

The most important technique for this recipe is marinating the flank steak. This not only enhances flavor but also tenderizes the meat. Additionally, grilling at the right temperature to get a nice sear while keeping the inside juicy is crucial for a perfect result.

Grilled Steak Caprese Delight

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic reduction
    For drizzling
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
    Adds brightness

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs flank steak
    Marinated for flavor
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes
    Halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella
    Cubed
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
    For garnish
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
    For marinating
  • 3 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
    Adds depth

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Steak

    In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Add the flank steak and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Prepare the Grill

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

  3. Grill the Steak

    Place the marinated flank steak on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time for your desired doneness.

  4. Make the Caprese Salad

    In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil leaves, balsamic vinegar, and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine.

  5. Rest the Steak

    Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

  6. Slice the Steak

    Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips.

  7. Assemble the Dish

    On a serving platter, arrange the sliced steak and top with the caprese salad mixture. Garnish with arugula.

  8. Serve

    Serve immediately and enjoy your Grilled Steak Caprese Delight!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, place the Grilled Steak Caprese Delight in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to preserve its freshness, avoid mixing the salad components until you're ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve the Grilled Steak Caprese Delight with crusty garlic bread and a side salad. Consider pairing it with a light red wine or a refreshing iced tea to complement the flavors.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with different cuts of steak or add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the grill. You can also switch up the cheese with burrata for an extra creamy texture.