
This grilled flank steak with balsamic caprese mixes smoky, savory, and fresh tastes perfectly. The tender steak is the hearty base while the bright caprese salad on top adds a fresh, colorful pop. A rich balsamic glaze finishes it off, turning simple things into a vibrant, tasty meal.
I whipped this up first to make a laid-back BBQ better and it quickly became a must-have at summer get-togethers.
What You Need
- Flank steak: 1.5 to 2 pounds, firm and nicely marbled for a tender, juicy cook
- Salt and pepper: classic seasonings to bring out all the flavors
- Garlic powder: a gentle boost of garlicky aroma without being strong
- Olive oil: adds richness and lets the salad ingredients blend smoothly
- Balsamic vinegar: thick, slightly sweet, the base for the glossy glaze
- Honey: softens balsamic’s sharpness with a sweet touch
- Fresh garlic: minced for a bold, fresh kick in the glaze
- Cherry tomatoes: halved, look for ripe and juicy for flavor bursts
- Fresh mozzarella: cut thick, it melts a bit over warm steak for creaminess
- Fresh basil: finely chopped to bring bright green freshness
Step-by-step Guide
- Start With Seasoning:
- Generously rub salt, pepper, and garlic powder all over the steak. Let it sit out at room temp for 20 minutes so flavors soak in and the meat cooks evenly.
- Heat Up The Grill:
- Set your grill to medium-high heat. This is key to searing the steak and locking juices inside without overdoing it.
- Make The Balsamic Glaze:
- Mix balsamic vinegar, honey, and fresh minced garlic in a small pan. Let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until thick and shiny like syrup. This step brings out intense flavor and a pretty glaze.
- Grill The Steak:
- Cook the steak about 5 to 6 minutes each side aiming for medium-rare. Change time up if you like it more or less done. Once off the grill, rest it for 10 minutes so it stays juicy and tender.
- Mix The Caprese Salad:
- Toss halved tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and chopped basil with olive oil in a bowl. This blends freshness and herbiness perfectly.
- Serve It Up:
- Slice the rested steak thin across the grain to keep it tender. Pile the caprese salad on top and drizzle the balsamic glaze all over for a tasty, elegant finish.

One of the best things is how the glaze sweetens the savory steak. It always takes me back to summer evenings grilling and sharing laughs with family around string lights.
How To Store It
Keep leftover steak wrapped tight in foil or sealed container to lock in moisture
The balsamic glaze stores well in the fridge inside a sealed jar and can be gently warmed before using
Keep the caprese salad parts separate until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh and crunchy
Switch Up Ingredients
Try burrata instead of mozzarella for a creamy, fancy twist
Add some crushed red pepper flakes in the glaze if you want a little spicy kick
Mix in a handful of arugula for a peppery, fresh green boost in the salad
Great Things To Serve With It
A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly with the balsamic’s tang
Crunchy garlic bread or grilled focaccia is awesome to soak up the glaze and salad juices
A simple green salad or roasted veggies on the side keeps things light and balanced
Seasonal Swaps
Summer is perfect for garden-fresh tomatoes and basil
Darker months call for roasted cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic for warmth
Try swapping basil with fresh thyme or oregano to change up the flavor a bit

Making this showed me how basic ingredients done well can turn out amazing. Enjoy making it and every bite.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → When’s the best time to rest flank steak before grilling?
Give your seasoned flank steak about 20 minutes to rest before grilling so flavors settle and the meat warms up a bit for even cooking.
- → How long should I grill flank steak for medium-rare?
Cook the steak about 5 to 6 minutes on each side over medium-high heat to get that warm pink center you want.
- → What’s the trick to thickening balsamic glaze?
Keep simmering the balsamic vinegar, honey, and garlic on low heat until it’s reduced by half and thick like syrup.
- → Can marinating the steak improve flavor?
Definitely! Let it soak for 2 to 4 hours in olive oil, garlic, and balsamic to get more tender and flavorful.
- → Why slice flank steak against the grain?
Cutting across the grain shortens the muscle fibers so every bite feels tender and easier to chew.