Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or looking to impress dinner guests, this flavorful recipe brings together juicy beef, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy twist that elevates any meal. The combination of balsamic marinated flank steak paired with grilled zucchini and whipped feta creates a delightful balance of tastes and textures. It’s one of those dishes that looks as good as it tastes, making it worth making every time.
Grilled Balsamic Flank Steak with Zucchini
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A flavorful recipe combining juicy beef, vibrant grilled zucchini, and creamy whipped feta for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 4 ounces feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Meanwhile, slice the zucchini and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature.
- Grill the steak for about 6-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- While the steak grills, place zucchini on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until tender and lightly charred.
- Blend feta and heavy cream until smooth in a small bowl.
- Serve sliced flank steak on a platter, topped with grilled zucchini and dollops of whipped feta.
Notes
Feel free to substitute fresh thyme with other herbs like rosemary or oregano. When reheating leftovers, slice the steak and gently warm in a skillet.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Why you’ll love this dish
The marriage of tender flank steak with the smokiness of grilled zucchini is hard to beat. The balsamic marinade not only enhances the beef’s natural flavors but also adds a slight tang, which complements the savory creaminess of whipped feta perfectly.
“This dish nailed it for our family gathering! Everyone raved about the perfect combination of flavors.”
You’ll appreciate how the freshness of the zucchini balances out the richness of the steak, not to mention that it’s visually stunning when plated. Plus, it’s an excellent way to enjoy seasonal veggies while treating yourself to a delicious and hearty meal.
The cooking process explained
Preparing this dish is as satisfying as it is delicious. You start by marinating the flank steak, allowing it to soak up all those balsamic flavors. While the steak rests, you’ll grill fresh zucchini until tender and slightly charred. Lastly, whip up feta cheese with a touch of cream to add a luscious dimension to your plate.
Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 15 min | Total Time: 30 min
What you’ll need
- Flank steak, about 1 pound
- Balsamic vinegar, ¼ cup
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons
- Garlic, 3 cloves, minced
- Fresh thyme, 2 teaspoons
- Zucchini, 2 medium, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- Feta cheese, 4 ounces
- Heavy cream, 2 tablespoons
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute fresh thyme with any herbs you have on hand, like rosemary or oregano. The flavors will still shine through beautifully!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for a deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Meanwhile, slice the zucchini and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature while the grill heats up.
- Grill the steak for about 6-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, depending on thickness. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- While the steak grills, place zucchini on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until tender and lightly charred.
- In a small bowl, blend feta and heavy cream until smooth — a hand mixer or food processor works great here!
- Serve sliced flank steak on a platter, topped with grilled zucchini and dollops of whipped feta.
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish shines when served hot off the grill, but it’s versatile too! Pair it with a refreshing side salad or enjoy it with warm pita bread for a casual feel. For a hearty touch, consider adding roasted potatoes or a quinoa salad; both pair wonderfully with the grilled flavors.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When it comes to reheating, slice the steak and gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to retain its juiciness. The zucchini is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have any leftovers, they can be quickly reheated in the microwave.
Helpful cooking tips
To prevent the steak from becoming tough, always slice it against the grain. This breaks up the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender bite. Marinating for a shorter time can still infuse flavor, but longer is better for tender cuts like flank steak.
Creative twists
If you’re looking to add a twist, consider swapping zucchini for asparagus or bell peppers, both of which grill beautifully and offer different flavor profiles. You can also experiment with different cheese by using ricotta instead of feta for a creamier texture.
FAQ
Can I substitute flank steak with another cut?
Yes! Skirt steak or sirloin can work well in this recipe if flank steak isn’t available.
How can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can marinate the steak a day ahead and slice the zucchini beforehand; just keep everything covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.
What’s the best way to serve the feta?
Dolloping the whipped feta directly onto the sliced steak allows for delightful bites that combine all the flavors together. Alternatively, serve it in a separate bowl for guests to add as they please.