Why Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto Steals Dinner

Discover the bold flavors of Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto, a simple recipe that turns dinner into a gourmet feast. This dish combines perfectly seared, tender flank steak with the creamy richness of burrata cheese and the vibrant, herbaceous punch of fresh pesto. With its exciting contrast of textures and fresh ingredients, this meal is sure to steal the show at your next dinner, melding rustic charm with sophisticated flavors in a way that’s both effortless and unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless gourmet: This recipe transforms basic ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish with minimal fuss.
• Bold and balanced flavors: The smoky grilled steak pairs beautifully with creamy burrata and fresh pesto for a harmonious bite.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether a casual weeknight or a special gathering, it impresses every time.
• Quick to prepare: The steak cooks fast on the grill, making this an ideal recipe for busy cooks craving flavor.
• Nutritious and satisfying: Packed with protein and fresh herbs, it’s a balanced meal full of vibrant nutrients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto features a handful of simple, yet key ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the flavors, textures, and visual appeal that make this dish so irresistible.

• Flank steak: A lean, flavorful cut that grills quickly and stays tender when sliced thinly against the grain.
• Burrata cheese: Provides a luscious, creamy texture that contrasts with the grilled meat perfectly.
• Fresh basil pesto: Adds vibrant green color and aromatic herbal brightness, making every bite pop.
• Olive oil: Used for marinating and brushing the steak to enhance juiciness and flavor.
• Garlic: Infuses the marinade with rich, savory notes that elevate the steak’s depth.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the marinade and pesto with a touch of zesty acidity.
• Sea salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the steak and accompaniments.

Variations for Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Its simple foundation makes it easy to adapt while keeping the delicious core intact.

• Swap out the pesto: Use sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for a different flavor profile.
• Different cheese options: Substitute burrata with fresh mozzarella or ricotta for a milder creaminess.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the marinade for a heat kick.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace the flank steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or eggplant slices.
• Add nuts to pesto: Incorporate walnuts or pecans instead of the traditional pine nuts for a unique twist.

How to Make Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a simple, flavorful marinade for the flank steak. This mix tenderizes and infuses the meat with vibrant aromas.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Place the flank steak in a shallow dish or zip-top bag, pour the marinade over it, and let it soak in the flavors for at least 30 minutes—up to 2 hours for deeper taste.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Get your grill or grill pan hot, aiming for medium-high heat. A properly heated grill ensures those signature sear marks and locks in the steak’s juices.

Step 4: Grill the Steak

Cook the flank steak for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. Aim to keep it medium-rare or medium to maintain tenderness.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling. This helps redistribute the juices before slicing thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Step 6: Assemble with Burrata and Pesto

Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter, add dollops of fresh burrata cheese, and drizzle with vibrant basil pesto. The creamy cheese and herbaceous sauce enhance every bite with fresh complexity.

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto

• Resting is key: Never skip resting the steak after grilling to retain juiciness and tenderness.
• Slice against the grain: This technique makes the steak easier to chew and maximizes tenderness.
• Use fresh pesto: Homemade or store-bought, fresh pesto dramatically boosts flavor compared to dried herbs.
• Control grill heat: Avoid charring by maintaining medium-high heat for even cooking without burning.
• Burrata timing: Add the burrata right before serving to keep its fresh, creamy texture intact.

How to Serve Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice brighten the dish, enhancing its vibrant colors and layers of flavor. Adding toasted pine nuts or crushed red pepper flakes can also create delightful texture contrasts.

Side Dishes

Pair the steak with grilled vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers, a crisp green salad, or even creamy polenta for a comforting complement. Light lemon-infused quinoa or garlic roasted potatoes also make fabulous sides that soak up flavorful drips.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the steak and burrata arranged over a wooden board for a rustic look or plated with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of elegance. Consider serving with small bowls of pesto on the side so everyone can customize their flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover steak, burrata, and pesto in airtight containers and store in the refrigerator. Keep the components separate if possible to maintain burrata’s creamy texture and pesto’s freshness for up to 3 days.

Freezing

While the flank steak can be frozen after cooking, burrata and pesto freeze poorly due to changes in texture. Freeze only the steak wrapped tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Warm leftover steak gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking, then add fresh burrata and pesto afterward to preserve their fresh qualities. Avoid microwaving to keep flavors vibrant and textures intact.

FAQs

Can I use another cut of steak?

Yes, you can use skirt steak or sirloin, but flank steak remains a favorite because of its lean texture and bold flavor, which pairs perfectly with burrata and pesto.

How do I make homemade pesto?

Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth. Adjust ingredients to taste, and feel free to swap pine nuts for walnuts or pecans for different flavors.

Is burrata cheese hard to find?

Burrata is increasingly available in most grocery stores with a good cheese section or specialty markets. When unavailable, fresh mozzarella is a suitable substitute but yields a less creamy texture.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the steak a few hours in advance and make the pesto earlier in the day, but it’s best to assemble the burrata and steak just before serving to enjoy optimal texture and flavor.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A medium-bodied red like a Chianti or a fruity Pinot Noir complements the grilled beef and creamy burrata without overpowering the fresh pesto notes.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dinner that feels special yet remains delightfully simple, Grilled Flank Steak with Burrata & Pesto is your new go-to. Its combination of smoky meat, creamy cheese, and zesty pesto is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for elevating everyday meals or impressing guests with ease. Give it a try and savor every bite of this flavorful, fresh, and totally satisfying dish.

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