Balsamic Flank Steak

If you’re looking for a delicious and quick dinner idea that impresses without keeping you in the kitchen all night, let me share my absolute favorite: Balsamic Flank Steak! This dish brings together tender steak, grilled zucchini, and creamy whipped feta topped with a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to serve something special without a fuss. Trust me, this meal is bound to become a staple in your home!

The combination of flavors in this recipe is simply irresistible. The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the flank steak and the fresh taste of grilled zucchini. Plus, it’s quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes! Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this Balsamic Flank Steak.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the savory taste of flank steak combined with the creamy feta.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate the steak the night before for an even deeper flavor. Just grill it when you’re ready!
• Flavor-Packed: The balsamic glaze adds a sweet-tangy punch that elevates the dish beyond ordinary grilled steak.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe fits perfectly into a balanced diet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For this Balsamic Flank Steak, you’ll need:

For the Marinade

• 1.5 lb flank steak
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 4 cloves minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 3 Tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
• 3 Tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (plus more as needed)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Grilled Zucchini

• 3 large zucchini (ends trimmed and cut into thick slices lengthwise)
• 2-3 Tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher salt to taste

For the Whipped Feta

• 8 ounces feta cheese (in brine)
• 3 Tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Now that we have our ingredients lined up, let’s explore some variations to make this dish your own!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try chicken breast or tofu for a lighter option while still enjoying that delicious marinade.
• Add more veggies: Bell peppers or asparagus would be great additions for even more color and flavor on the grill.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick that spice lovers will adore.
• Try different cheeses: Goat cheese or ricotta can be delightful alternatives to feta if you’re looking for something creamier.

How to Make Balsamic Flank Steak

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a large plastic bag or shallow dish, combine Dijon mustard, minced garlic, onion powder, soy sauce, olive oil, and half of your balsamic vinegar. Season both sides of your flank steak with salt and pepper before adding it to the marinade. Let it soak up those flavors for at least 2 hours—or overnight if you can wait! This step ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Step 2: Heat Up the Grill

When it’s time to cook, brush your grill grates with oil and set it to high heat (about 450°F). Remove your marinated flank steak from its cozy bath; shake off any excess marinade but keep it aside for later. This will create your flavorful balsamic glaze later on!

Step 3: Grill Time!

Place that beautiful steak on the hot grill. Close the lid and cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare perfection. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of about 135°F—this allows for some carryover cooking while resting. When you flip that steak over, toss on your zucchini slices brushed lightly with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt.

Step 4: Let It Rest

Once everything is grilled to perfection, remove both steak and zucchini from the grill onto a clean cutting board. Allow them to rest for about 10 minutes—this helps retain juices in your steak so each slice is tender and juicy.

Step 5: Make That Glaze

While your meat rests, take that reserved marinade we saved earlier and pour it into a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring it to a rolling boil (165°F or higher) to ensure it’s safe to eat. Then reduce heat and simmer until thickened—about 2-3 minutes should do!

Step 6: Whip Up Feta Cream

In a blender or food processor, combine feta cheese with heavy cream or milk until smooth. This creamy topping adds such richness!

Step 7: Plate It Up

Brush half of your lovely balsamic glaze over the sliced flank steak cut against the grain. On each plate, spread some whipped feta at the bottom before layering on slices of grilled steak and zucchini. Drizzle with remaining glaze—and there you go! A stunning dish ready for everyone at your table.

Now all that’s left is to enjoy every flavorful bite of this delightful Balsamic Flank Steak!

Pro Tips for Making Balsamic Flank Steak

Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or trying out your cooking skills for the first time, these tips will ensure your balsamic flank steak turns out perfectly every time!

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the steak to marinate overnight can enhance the flavor and tenderness even further. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes!

• Use a Meat Thermometer: For precise cooking, using a meat thermometer is key. It ensures that your steak reaches the perfect doneness without overcooking it.

• Let It Rest: Resting the steak for 10 minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier bite.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality balsamic vinegar make a noticeable difference in flavor. Don’t skimp on quality when it comes to your ingredients.

• Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to tweak the marinade by adding herbs or spices that you enjoy. This flexibility can make each grilling experience unique!

How to Serve Balsamic Flank Steak

Presenting your balsamic flank steak in an inviting way can turn a simple meal into an exquisite dining experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest brings brightness and balances the savory elements of the steak beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a hint of lemon makes for a nutritious and colorful pairing.
• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil and garlic adds an elegant touch alongside your grilled steak.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort and richness that pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of balsamic flank steak.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled until charred provides a delightful crunch and sweetness that rounds out your meal perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy an incredible meal featuring balsamic flank steak. Remember, cooking is all about enjoyment—so have fun with it!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Balsamic Flank Steak recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for delicious meals throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh and tasty:

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover steak and zucchini in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the balsamic glaze separate in a small container to drizzle fresh when serving.

Freezing

• Wrap the flank steak tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• You can freeze the grilled zucchini separately if desired.
• For best quality, consume within 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat steak, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Zucchini can be reheated on the stovetop over medium heat for a few minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Drizzle with extra balsamic glaze after reheating for added flavor.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Balsamic Flank Steak.

Can I use a different cut of meat for Balsamic Flank Steak?

Absolutely! While flank steak is great because of its flavor and tenderness, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as different cuts may require different cooking methods.

How do I know when my Balsamic Flank Steak is done?

The best way to check doneness is using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, look for an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). Remember that the steak will continue cooking while resting!

What can I serve with Balsamic Flank Steak?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Can I marinate Balsamic Flank Steak overnight?

Yes! Marinating overnight enhances the flavors greatly. Just remember to keep it covered in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Balsamic Flank Steak as much as I do! It’s a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s quick enough for any weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Don’t forget to savor every bite and share your experience with family and friends. Happy cooking!