Description
A fresh and satisfying salad featuring juicy grilled flank steak, fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and a sweet-tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick, elegant weeknight meal or impressing guests.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds flank steak
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
- Salt, about 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper, about ½ teaspoon
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves (about 25g), torn
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Optional: 4 cups mixed greens (arugula or baby spinach)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Place the flank steak in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it. Rub it all over and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- While the steak marinates, pour ½ cup balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons honey into a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce until thick and syrupy, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (130°F/54°C internal temperature). Use tongs to flip just once. Adjust cooking time if you prefer more done.
- Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- While the steak rests, halve the cherry tomatoes, drain mozzarella balls, and tear fresh basil leaves. If using mixed greens, toss them lightly with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain. Arrange steak slices over mixed greens or on a large platter. Scatter tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil over the top.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze generously over the salad. Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately.
Notes
Marinate steak at room temperature for even cooking and tenderness. Let steak rest 5-10 minutes after grilling to lock in juices. Slice steak thinly against the grain for tenderness. Balsamic glaze can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Use a meat thermometer to achieve perfect medium-rare. Burrata can substitute fresh mozzarella for extra creaminess. Double the balsamic glaze if desired.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the salad
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 520
- Fat: 24
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 38
Keywords: grilled flank steak, Caprese salad, balsamic glaze, easy dinner, summer salad, steak salad, fresh mozzarella, healthy grilling