There is something incredibly satisfying about a perfectly grilled steak infused with bold, tangy, and garlicky flavors. This Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak Recipe captures all of that and more, delivering a dish that’s juicy, tender, and packed with personality. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to share with friends and family on a warm evening, offering a brilliant balance between the acidity of balsamic vinegar and the richness of garlic that transforms simple flank steak into an unforgettable main course.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this vibrant and flavorful steak, the ingredients are delightfully straightforward yet powerful enough to elevate this dish to memorable new heights. Each component plays a key role in building that perfect balance of taste, texture, and aroma.
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak: Choose a fresh cut for optimal tenderness and flavor absorption.
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar: Adds a rich, tangy sweetness that tenderizes the meat beautifully.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Keeps the steak moist and helps carry the flavors deep into the meat.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings an umami depth and a touch of saltiness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides that classic punch of robust, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances acidity with subtle sweetness and aids caramelization.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a creamy, sharp layer of flavor that perks up the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme: Offers herbal notes that complement the steak’s richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Lends a gentle heat and enhances overall seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the steak.
How to Make Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, rosemary (or thyme), black pepper, and salt in a medium bowl. This marinade combines tangy, sweet, savory, and herbal flavors that soak into the flank steak, making each bite incredibly tasty.
Step 2: Marinate the Flank Steak
Place your flank steak into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least two hours or, better yet, overnight. Marinating longer really allows the flavors to penetrate deep, tenderizing the meat and enhancing every bite.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill ensures a beautiful sear that locks in all the juices and flavor, creating that irresistibly charred crust on the outside.
Step 4: Grill the Steak
Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, then place it on the grill. Cook for about 4 to 6 minutes per side, depending on your preferred level of doneness. Keep an eye on it—you want a lovely crust but still juicy inside.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
After grilling, let your steak rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Then slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness and the best eating experience.
How to Serve Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives adds a vibrant pop of green and a fresh note that complements the steak’s rich flavors beautifully. A dash of flaky sea salt right before serving can also enhance the savory notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
This flank steak pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini, which echo the grilling method and add wonderful textures. Roasted potatoes or a fresh garden salad with a zesty dressing also work brilliantly to balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try making steak tacos with warm tortillas, fresh avocado, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a fun twist. Or slice thinly and add to a mixed greens salad topped with feta and cherry tomatoes for a lighter yet satisfying dinner. Sandwich lovers? A crusty baguette with caramelized onions and a smear of horseradish sauce makes an unforgettable steak sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any steak leftover, wrap it tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
The grilled flank steak freezes well for up to 2 months. Slice it before freezing for convenience, and wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil or use a vacuum-sealed bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
To keep your steak tender when reheating, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven wrapped loosely in foil. Avoid high heat to prevent drying it out. Adding a splash of beef broth or water before covering can help retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Yes! While flank steak works wonderfully because of its flavor and structure, skirt steak or hanger steak can be great alternatives. Just adjust cooking times slightly depending on thickness.
Is it necessary to marinate the steak overnight?
Marinating overnight is ideal because it infuses deeper flavor and tenderizes the meat more effectively, but if you’re short on time, even 2 hours will make a noticeable difference.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just be sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the recipe gluten-free without compromising on flavor.
What if I don’t have a grill—can I cook this indoors?
Definitely. You can broil the steak in your oven, about 4 to 5 minutes per side, keeping a close watch to get a nice crust without overcooking.
How do I ensure the steak stays juicy and tender?
Marinating is key, along with not overcooking the steak. Also, resting it after cooking allows juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak Recipe feels like a secret weapon in the kitchen—simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers reliable flavor and an impressive presentation. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite steak to grill over and over again!
Print
Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Grilled Balsamic and Garlic Flank Steak recipe features tender, marinated flank steak infused with a rich blend of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs. Perfectly grilled to enhance smoky flavors, this steak is ideal for summer meals, served as a main course alongside your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Flank Steak and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (use gluten-free soy sauce if desired)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, dried rosemary or thyme, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Marinate the Steak: Place the flank steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the steak, ensuring it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure a nice sear and even cooking.
- Grill the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for 4 to 6 minutes on each side, adjusting the time based on your preferred level of doneness.
- Rest the Steak: Transfer the grilled steak to a plate and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and maintain tenderness.
- Serve: Slice the steak thinly against the grain and serve warm. It pairs wonderfully with sides like grilled vegetables, salads, or inside tacos and sandwiches.
Notes
- Marinating the steak overnight greatly enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- This flank steak is versatile and can be used in tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
- If a grill is not available, you can broil the steak in the oven for 4 to 5 minutes per side as an alternative cooking method.
