Balsamic Flank Steak

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, then this Balsamic Flank Steak is just what you need! It’s become one of my go-to recipes, especially on busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet simple to prepare. The marinated flank steak is grilled to perfection and served over tender zucchini with a creamy whipped feta that takes everything to the next level. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly find a special place in your recipe rotation!

This meal is perfect for family gatherings or even casual dinners with friends. With its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation, it feels like a special occasion but comes together in under 30 minutes. Plus, who can resist a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: This meal can be on your table in just 30 minutes!
• Flavor-packed: The marinade infuses the steak with amazing flavor, making every bite unforgettable.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the juicy steak and creamy feta.
• Grill-friendly: Perfect for outdoor grilling, bringing that smoky goodness right to your plate.
• Versatile: Serve it with different veggies or sides to keep things fresh!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, ensuring you create a dish that’s both tasty and nourishing. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need for this delightful Balsamic Flank Steak.

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 the brine)
• 3 Tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Variations

This Balsamic Flank Steak recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast or tofu for a lighter option that still packs great flavor.
• Change up the veggies: Experiment with asparagus or bell peppers instead of zucchini for variety.
• Add some spice: Toss in some chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you like a little heat in your meals.
• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version of this marinade.

How to Make Balsamic Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by mixing together the Dijon mustard, minced garlic, onion powder, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), olive oil, and balsamic vinegar in a large plastic bag or shallow dish. This marinade will help tenderize the flank steak while infusing it with delicious flavors. Once everything is combined, season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper before adding it to the marinade. Let it soak up those flavors for at least 2 hours—or even overnight if you have time!

Step 2: Grill the Steak

When it’s time to fire up the grill, brush those grates with oil and preheat your outdoor grill to high heat (about 450°F). Remove your marinated flank steak from the bag and shake off any excess marinade—don’t discard it just yet! Place the steak on the hot grill and close the lid. Cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side until it reaches medium-rare doneness (135°F internal temperature). This step ensures your steak is juicy while allowing those grill marks to form beautifully.

Step 3: Grill the Zucchini

As you flip your steak during grilling, take this chance to add sliced zucchini on another part of the grill. Brush them lightly with olive oil and sprinkle some kosher salt on top. Grill these beauties for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re tender and have nice charred marks. Pressing down slightly with tongs helps create those lovely grill impressions.

Step 4: Rest & Make Glaze

Once your steak is done cooking, remove both it and the zucchini from the grill onto a clean cutting board. Let them rest for about 10 minutes; this allows juices in the meat to redistribute for maximum tenderness. Meanwhile, take that reserved marinade from earlier and pour it into a medium saucepan. Bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat—this step makes sure it’s safe to eat—then reduce to simmer until it thickens into a glaze that coats the back of a spoon perfectly.

Step 5: Whip Up Feta Cream

While all that goodness is resting away, grab your blender or food processor! Add in your feta cheese along with heavy cream (or milk) and blend until everything becomes smooth and creamy. This whipped feta adds an incredible richness that pairs perfectly with our grilled components.

Step 6: Assemble & Serve

Now comes one of my favorite parts! Brush half of that sweet balsamic glaze over your sliced flank steak before cutting it thinly against the grain—this makes every bite tender! On each plate, spoon some whipped feta as a base layer first; then top it off with slices of grilled steak followed by those yummy zucchini pieces. Drizzle generously with remaining balsamic glaze for an extra punch of flavor before diving in!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Balsamic Flank Steak—it’s sure to impress everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Balsamic Flank Steak

Cooking a perfect balsamic flank steak is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish and impress your family or guests.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the flank steak to marinate overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat, making each bite juicy and delicious.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For a perfectly cooked steak, invest in a meat thermometer. This ensures that you achieve your desired doneness without overcooking, keeping the meat flavorful and tender.
• Resting Time is Key: Letting the steak rest for at least 10 minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier final product.
• Customize Your Marinade: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices like rosemary or thyme in your marinade for extra layers of flavor that match your taste preferences.
• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill not only sears the meat quickly but also helps lock in those beautiful grill marks and juicy flavors. Make sure it’s preheated to high heat before placing your steak on it.

How to Serve Balsamic Flank Steak

Presenting your balsamic flank steak beautifully can make all the difference at mealtime. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the balsamic glaze.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkling of lemon zest adds brightness and acidity, balancing out the richness of the feta and steak.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: Light, fluffy quinoa mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a citrus dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the steak.
• Roasted Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and roasted until slightly charred makes for an elegant side that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower infused with roasted garlic offers a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes while still being comforting and satisfying.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing adds a crunchy texture and freshness that balances out the hearty meal.

With these tips for serving and garnishing in mind, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable dining experience centered around this delightful balsamic flank steak! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This balsamic flank steak recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, flavorful dinner throughout the week. You can easily store leftovers or even freeze them for later use.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover flank steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep grilled zucchini separate in another container to maintain its texture.
• Consume leftovers within 3-4 days for the best flavor and quality.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the flank steak thinly against the grain and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Consider freezing individual portions for easy meal access.
• Use within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen steak overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, covered, using short intervals to avoid drying out.
• Grill or sauté zucchini on medium heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other cuts of beef instead of flank steak?

Yes! While flank steak is ideal for its flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with skirt steak or sirloin. Adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.

How do I make a balsamic glaze for Balsamic Flank Steak?

To make a balsamic glaze, simply simmer reserved marinade over medium-high heat until it thickens. This adds a rich layer of flavor to your Balsamic Flank Steak.

Is this Balsamic Flank Steak recipe gluten-free?

Yes! If you use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, this recipe can be made gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure your ingredients are safe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Balsamic Flank Steak as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience filled with vibrant flavors that come together beautifully. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it alone after a long day, I’m confident you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to try this recipe soon!