Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings family and friends together. I remember the first time I grilled flank steak marinated in balsamic vinegar as a novice cook, and I was amazed by how uncomplicated and gratifying it was. The aroma filling my kitchen had everyone gathering around, eagerly anticipating a delicious dinner. This dish has since become a staple in my home cooking repertoire, and I believe it will be a gratifying addition to yours as well.
The key components in this recipe, which includes 1 flank steak weighing about 1.5 to 2 pounds, 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup olive oil, 3 cloves of minced garlic, and a blend of dried rosemary and thyme, create an incredible flavor profile. The balsamic vinegar lends a sweet and tangy twist, while the garlic and herbs inject deeper notes, giving the steak a well-rounded taste. The marinade not only amplifies the steak’s natural flavor but also tenderizes it, making every bite a tender delight.
Prepare to be impressed by how straightforward the method is. You whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl. After that, the flank steak is placed in a zip-top bag, bathed in the marinade, and left to soak for at least two hours or overnight for even more fabulous taste. Next, a quick preheat of your grill to medium-high heat is required. Grill the steak for 5 to 7 minutes on each side for that perfect medium-rare doneness. Let it rest briefly before slicing against the grain, and then serve it alongside your favorite sides.
This recipe shines in numerous scenarios. Whether it’s a warm summer evening spent outdoors or a cozy family dinner, Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak is perfect for almost any occasion. It’s also great for gatherings or potlucks, promising to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe is ready in no time with minimal effort.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with easily accessible ingredients that require little prep time.
- Comfort Food: Flank steak grilled to perfection is sure to warm your heart.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with different sides and sauces for variety.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The marinade provides a fantastic flavor profile, suitable for all palates.
Flank Steak Tips
Selecting the right flank steak is essential for this dish. When you shop for flank steak, look for a piece that has a nice marbling of fat running through it. This fat enhances flavor and tenderness. Additionally, the color should be a rich red, indicating freshness. Be sure to ask your butcher for advice; they can help you find a high-quality cut.
Options for Substitutions
- Soy Sauce: Swap balsamic vinegar for soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Oil: If you prefer, you can use vegetable oil instead of olive oil.
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh rosemary and thyme instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
- Different Cuts: Try this marinade with other cuts like skirt steak or chicken for variety.
- Garlic Powder: Substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.
- Honey: Add a bit of honey to the marinade for additional sweetness.
Watch Out for These Mistakes
Common pitfalls can hinder your grilling experience. Overcooking the flank steak is one of the most frequent mistakes. Since flank steak is best enjoyed medium-rare, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare.
Another common issue is neglecting to let the steak rest after grilling. Resting for about 10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy steak. Slicing too soon will lead to a dry texture.
Finally, if you skip the marination step, you will miss out on the incredible flavors this simple marinade provides. While it may seem tempting to skip this process for speed, taking the time to marinate will significantly enhance the taste.
What to Serve With Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak Recipe?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini, complement the flavor of the steak beautifully. A light mixed greens salad drizzled with a simple vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch. Additionally, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread would make excellent accompaniments for a more hearty meal.
Storage Instructions
Store: If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the cooked steak, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: To reheat, warm the steak on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave for quick reheating, but be cautious to avoid toughening the meat.
Recipe Info
Preparation Time: 10 minutes (plus marination time)
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marination)
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 1200-1400
- Protein: 90-100g
- Fat: 60-80g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
Ingredients
- 1 flank steak (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
Place the flank steak in a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or for best results, overnight.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Before cooking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat so the grill is hot enough to sear the steak.
Step 4: Prepare for Grilling
Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the marinade once you’re done; it has done its job.
Step 5: Grill the Steak
Place the steak on the grill. Grill for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, depending on your grill’s heat.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Once done, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Then, slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the grilled flank steak with your choice of sides. Enjoy the delicious flavors you have prepared together.
In conclusion, Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak is an excellent and simple recipe that will delight your family and friends. From its straightforward preparation to its incredible flavor, this dish is sure to brighten any meal. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, and I would love to hear your thoughts or any twists you’ve added. Happy cooking, and explore more recipes that fit your next gathering perfectly!
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Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting grilled flank steak marinated in balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs, perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 flank steak (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well blended.
- Place the flank steak in a zip-top bag, pour the marinade over it, ensure it’s well coated, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the steak from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and discard the marinade.
- Grill the steak for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, depending on your grill’s heat.
- Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Serve the grilled flank steak with your choice of sides.
Notes
Ensure to let the steak rest after grilling to keep it juicy and tender. Pair with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
