Balsamic Flank Steak

One of my new grilling favorites is this balsamic flank steak served over grilled zucchini and creamy whipped feta and drizzled with a sweet and tangy delicious balsamic glaze. It’s a full meal you can make in 30 minutes or less with tons of flavor (the balsamic glaze is delicious!). Perfect for family dinners, summer barbecues, or impressing guests, this dish stands out with its balance of savory and sweet flavors.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Balsamic Flank Steak
• Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
• Step 2: Preheat the Grill
• Step 3: Grill the Flank Steak
• Step 4: Prepare Zucchini
• Step 5: Resting Period
• Step 6: Make Balsamic Glaze
• Step 7: Whip Feta
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Balsamic Flank Steak
• On a Bed of Greens
• With Grilled Vegetables
• Over Creamy Polenta
• In Tacos
• As Part of a Charcuterie Board
• How to Perfect Balsamic Flank Steak
• Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Flank Steak
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Balsamic Flank Steak
• Reheating Balsamic Flank Steak
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I choose flank steak?
• Can I use another cut of beef?
• What sides pair well with Balsamic Flank Steak?
• How do I make my own balsamic glaze?
• Can I marinate for longer than overnight?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and Dijon mustard creates a deep flavor profile that enhances the flank steak.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over grilled zucchini for a light meal or pair it with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or salad.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the flank steak and healthy fats from olive oil, this dish is satisfying without being heavy.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of grilled zucchini and the creamy feta make for a beautiful plate that’s sure to impress.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results when making this balsamic flank steak, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Plastic bag or shallow dish (for marinating)
• Mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Blender or food processor
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides high heat needed for that perfect sear on the flank steak.
• Plastic bag or shallow dish: Makes marinating easy and ensures even coating of flavors on the steak.
• Blender or food processor: Essential for creating a smooth whipped feta, adding creaminess to your dish.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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
– 3 large zucchini (ends trimmed and cut into thick slices lengthwise)
– 2-3 Tablespoons olive oil
– Kosher salt to taste
– 8 ounces feta cheese (in the brine)
– 3 Tablespoons heavy cream or milk

How to Make Balsamic Flank Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Add the dijon, garlic, onion powder, soy sauce, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar together in a large plastic bag or shallow dish. Season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper then add the steak to the marinade let it marinate for 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

When you’re ready to grill, brush the grill grates with oil and heat the outdoor grill to high heat (450°F). Remove the flank steak from the marinade and shake off excess but do not discard marinade. You need to cook down the glaze.

Step 3: Grill the Flank Steak

Add the flank steak to the hot grill and close the lid. Cook for 3-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare steak, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.

Step 4: Prepare Zucchini

Brush zucchini with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt. When you flip the steak, add sliced zucchini to grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until tender and charred.

Step 5: Resting Period

Remove steak and zucchini to a clean cutting board and let them rest for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Make Balsamic Glaze

While resting, take reserved marinade to a medium saucepan. Bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Reduce to simmer; let thicken into a glaze for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Whip Feta

Add feta cheese and heavy cream into a blender or food processor; blend until smooth.

Step 8: Serve

Brush half of balsamic glaze on top of sliced steak against grain. Spoon whipped feta on plates, top with grilled steak, zucchini, drizzle remaining glaze, then enjoy!

How to Serve Balsamic Flank Steak

Balsamic flank steak is a flavorful dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you prefer a simple plate or an elaborate presentation, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• A fresh salad with mixed greens and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the steak.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pairing with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and asparagus enhances the meal’s color and nutrition.

Over Creamy Polenta

• Serving the steak over creamy polenta creates a comforting texture that complements the balsamic glaze beautifully.

In Tacos

• Shred the grilled flank steak and serve it in corn tortillas topped with avocado and salsa for a delicious twist.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Slice the steak thinly and serve alongside cheeses, olives, and nuts for an impressive charcuterie spread.

How to Perfect Balsamic Flank Steak

Achieving the perfect balsamic flank steak involves a few key techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your steak is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allow the flank steak to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat helps achieve a nice sear while keeping the inside tender.
• Let It Rest: Resting the meat for 10 minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain shortens muscle fibers, making each slice more tender.
• Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 135°F for medium-rare.
• Thicken the Glaze: Reducing the marinade into a glaze not only enhances flavor but also makes it safe to consume.

Best Side Dishes for Balsamic Flank Steak

Pairing side dishes with balsamic flank steak can enhance your dining experience. Here are some of the best options that complement this savory dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that balances the tanginess of the steak.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts add crunch and earthy flavors that pair well with balsamic notes.
3. Couscous Salad – A light couscous salad mixed with herbs and lemon offers a refreshing contrast to rich meats.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a burst of flavor and texture; brush with butter and sprinkle with salt for added taste.
5. Quinoa Pilaf – This protein-packed side, tossed with vegetables, brings fiber and substance to your plate.
6. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with olive oil deliver bright flavors that complement grilled steak.
7. Sautéed Spinach – Lightly sautéed spinach seasoned simply makes for a nutritious addition that’s quick to prepare.
8. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, enhancing your overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Balsamic Flank Steak, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Ignoring marinating time: Skipping or shortening the marinating time can lead to less flavor. Aim for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum taste.
• Overcooking the steak: Cooking it too long will result in a tough texture. Use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare.
• Neglecting grill prep: Not preparing the grill can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Always preheat and oil the grates before placing the steak on them.
• Forgetting to let the steak rest: Cutting into the steak right away can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for 10 minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.
• Not adjusting glaze consistency: If your balsamic glaze is too thin, it won’t stick well. Ensure it’s cooked down until it coats the back of a spoon.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Balsamic Flank Steak in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Balsamic Flank Steak

• Wrap cooked steak tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Balsamic Flank Steak

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place steak on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place sliced steak on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cook slices until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose flank steak?

Look for flank steak that is bright red with minimal fat. It should feel firm but not hard.

Can I use another cut of beef?

Yes! You can substitute skirt steak or sirloin if flank steak is not available.

What sides pair well with Balsamic Flank Steak?

Grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement this dish nicely.

How do I make my own balsamic glaze?

Simmer balsamic vinegar over medium heat until reduced by half and thickened to your preference.

Can I marinate for longer than overnight?

While you can marinate longer, be cautious as too much acid can break down the meat too much and affect its texture.

Final Thoughts

Balsamic Flank Steak is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it over various vegetables or grains, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding herbs or spices that you love!