Name: Balsamic Flank Steak with Grilled Zucchini and Whipped Feta
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound flank steak (Affordable and perfect for marinating.); 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (Adds flavor and caramelization.); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; to taste salt and pepper; 2 medium zucchinis (Slice into half-inch thick rounds.); 1/2 cup feta cheese; 1/4 cup cream or Greek yogurt (Creates a creamy topping.); to taste honey (Optional, for sweetness.); to taste lettuce (For serving as a salad.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Flavors that Take You Places

There’s something undeniably captivating about the scent of grilled meat wafting through the air on a warm summer evening. It’s one of those aromas that can instantly transport you to a backyard barbecue or a cozy al fresco restaurant in the heart of Tuscany. One of my favorite ways to embrace that feeling is with Balsamic Flank Steak served alongside grilled zucchini and a creamy, whipped feta that elevates the entire dish to something truly special.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity combined with the depth of flavor. When I make this dish, I’m not just cooking; I’m reliving some of my fondest culinary memories, especially those evenings spent with friends and family during lazy summers.

The Ingredients That Make It Shine

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients. You’ll start with a 1-pound flank steak, which is not only affordable but also perfectly suited for marinating. The marinade begins with a robust 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar—this will give the steak flavor and a beautiful caramelized crust as it grills. Toss in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 minced cloves of garlic, and some salt and pepper to taste, and you’ve got the perfect marinade to infuse the meat.

Then comes the star of the vegetable show: 2 medium zucchinis. When grilled, they add a subtle smokiness that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the steak. As a final touch, you’ll whip together 1/2 cup of feta cheese with either 1/4 cup of cream or Greek yogurt, creating a deliciously creamy topping. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of honey can be added for that hint of sweetness. Oh, and let’s not forget some lettuce if you wish to serve it as a light salad!

Crafting the Perfect Marinade

The first step of this culinary journey is to prepare the marinade. Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. The aroma of the garlic mingling with the bright vinegar is one of my favorite pre-cooking moments. Just like that, the marinade is ready, and it’s time to immerse the flank steak.

I usually let it soak for at least 30 minutes, but if you can manage a few hours or even overnight, the steak will be even more flavorful. Just make sure to remember to take it out of the fridge about 20 minutes before cooking—it helps to bring the meat to room temperature for a more even cook.

Grilling Brilliance

While that flank steak is soaking up all those delicious flavors, it’s a good time to prepare your grill. You want it nice and hot, perfect for searing the steak. Depending on your grill, preheating might take some time, so, while the grill heats up, slice those zucchinis into nice thick rounds. I usually opt for about half an inch; this ensures they won’t fall through the grill but will still get nice grill marks and tenderness.

Once the grill is ready, toss the flank steak on there. The sizzle is music to a cook’s ears! For a medium-rare finish, cook it for about 5-7 minutes on each side, but adjust the time according to your preference. A meat thermometer can be incredibly helpful here; 130-135°F is the sweet spot for medium-rare. After taking it off the heat, give it some time to rest—this is crucial for juicy results.

While the steak is resting, it’s time to grill that zucchini. Just place those slices on the grill for about 2-3 minutes per side. You want them to be tender, with lovely grill marks but not falling apart. These zucchini slices become the perfect bed for your sliced flank steak.

Whipped Feta: Where Creaminess Meets Flavor

Now for the whipped feta! This is truly where the magic happens. Toss the feta cheese into a food processor with your cream or Greek yogurt and blend it until it’s silky smooth. It transforms into a creamy delight that nicely complements both the meat and the grilled veggies. If you’re in the mood for a touch of sweet amidst the savory, drizzling some honey into the mixture can add that lovely contrast that keeps things exciting on the palate.

When everything is ready, it’s time to assemble! Slice the flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. Place the slices on top of the grilled zucchini and generously dollop the whipped feta over the top. If you have some balsamic glaze or reduction, a drizzle of that will elevate the dish even further. Sometimes, I sprinkle over fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, just to add a touch of color and freshness.

A Meal Worth Sharing

I often serve this dish over a bed of lettuce when I’m feeling like making it a light meal or salad. It imparts a nice crunch and freshness, turning it into something great for warm weather dining.

Now, let me share a little trick I’ve learned along the way: leftovers! If you’re lucky enough to have any, storing them in the fridge is easy. Just keep them in a sealed container, and they’ll stay good for a couple of days. The flavors also meld beautifully overnight, making the leftovers an even tastier option for lunch the next day.

Final Thoughts: Making It Your Own

One of the things I adore about this recipe is how adaptable it is. If you’re feeling a bit zesty, consider throwing in some grilled bell peppers or swapping the feta for goat cheese for a different flavor profile. You can also make it work for busy weeknights by marinating the steak in advance. The balsamic marinade keeps everything fresh and tasty, ensuring dinner is quick and stress-free.

As you can see, Balsamic Flank Steak with Grilled Zucchini and Whipped Feta is more than just a dish; it’s an experience filled with flavor, memories, and delightful textures. Each bite weaves together the lusciousness of the steak, the smokiness of the zucchini, and that creamy feta, creating a symphony of tastes that will undoubtedly impress anyone lucky enough to share it with you. So, gather some friends, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy every moment (and bite) of this delightful culinary adventure!