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Steak Caprese with Balsamic Dressing

A quick and elegant dinner featuring juicy steak topped with fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy balsamic dressing.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Steak
  • 1.5 to 2 lb flank steak or skirt steak (you can use sirloin or ribeye if preferred) Use any preferred cut of steak.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Season generously.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar Taste varies; high-quality balsamic will be richer and sweeter.
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup Use honey for a sweeter dressing.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional) Adds a little tang.
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil For the dressing.
For Assembly
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 3 medium tomatoes, sliced)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or torn into bite-size pieces Allow to sit at room temperature before using.
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced Fresh basil is key.
  • Flaky sea salt to taste (optional, for finishing) Use just before serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring the steak to room temperature. Pat dry with paper towels and season both sides with kosher salt and pepper.
  2. Let the steak sit for about 15–20 minutes while making the dressing.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard if using.
  2. Slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil while whisking until the dressing emulsifies.
  3. Taste and adjust sweetness and tang as desired.
Cook the Steak
  1. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp olive oil.
  2. Sear the steak for 3–5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness.
Rest and Slice
  1. Transfer the steak to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest for 8–10 minutes.
  2. Slice thinly across the grain into 1/4-inch slices.
Assemble Caprese
  1. Place sliced steak on a serving platter and scatter halved tomatoes and mozzarella over it.
  2. Drizzle half of the balsamic dressing over everything and toss or arrange basil leaves on top.
Finish and Serve
  1. Drizzle remaining dressing before serving and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.

Notes

Do not skip resting the steak to redistribute juices. For extra char, finish on a hot grill for 1–2 minutes per side. The dressing can be made in advance.