Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 14g22%
- Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
- Protein 1g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
There’s something downright exciting about a summer barbecue with friends and family. Picture this: juicy steaks sizzling on the grill, their rich aroma wafting through the air, sending everyone into a salivating frenzy. And let’s be real—what’s a great steak without a killer marinade that brings it all together?
That's where my flavor-packed balsamic steak marinade comes into play. It’s the kind of dish that pairs perfectly with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even a side of creamy mashed potatoes. Trust me, this is how you make a memorable meal.
Marinades are truly the secret weapon of home cooks. They elevate meats, infusing them with vibrant flavors while tenderizing them in the process. With a heart of balsamic vinegar, this marinade strikes a beautiful balance between tangy and sweet.
You'll find that this balsamic steak marinade is a simple way to achieve restaurant-quality steaks right from your own grill or kitchen.
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Balsamic steak marinade is a blend of various ingredients designed specifically to enhance the flavor of steak before cooking. Its base, balsamic vinegar, brings a delightful sweetness and acidity that penetrates the meat. Coupled with other flavors like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic, this mixture transforms ordinary cuts of beef into extraordinary culinary delights. This marinade can be used on various cuts, from flank steak to sirloin, ensuring versatility in its application.
What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity combined with depth of flavor. The marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also contributes a delicious complexity that enhances the natural beefy taste without overpowering it. Plus, it’s a make-ahead wonder! You can marinate the steak the night before or in the morning, giving you time to enjoy your day. It’s like a hug for your steak—easy to whip up, and the result is a juicy, flavorful bite that both friends and family will rave about.
To create this amazing balsamic steak marinade, you'll need the following ingredients:
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adds a kick!)
- Pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Feel free to adjust the quantities according to your taste preferences, but these measurements will provide a fantastic balance of flavors.
Ingredients From : allrecipes.com/recipe
Now, let’s dive into the easy steps for making this flavorful marinade. It’s quick and straightforward, making it a breeze to prepare. The whole process takes just a few minutes!
Start by pulling out all your ingredients. Have them at arm's length; it makes the process smoother. Since the entire marinade is made in one bowl, there’s no need to fuss over multiple dishes.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Whisk these together until they are well blended. The marriage of these ingredients offers a sweet and savory base for your steak.
Next, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes into the mixture. Both add layers of flavor and a touch of heat that enhances the overall taste of the steak. Give it another good whisk to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
Finally, season the marinade with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember, the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce already have salt, so go easy on it. Taste the marinade and adjust the spices as needed based on your preference. Whisk one last time before you’re ready to move on.
Place your steak in a large resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. Pour the marinade over the meat, and make sure it’s well-coated. Seal it up and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If time allows, let it marinate for several hours, or even overnight for maximum flavor. The longer, the better!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic always beats jarred. It brings more flavor.
- Experiment with Different Cuts of Beef: This marinade works well with various cuts, like flank, ribeye, or sirloin.
- Don’t Skip the Marinade Time: Even a short marination of 30 minutes packs in lots of flavor, but aim for several hours or overnight for best results.
- Save Leftover Marinade: You can also use the leftover marinade as a sauce by simmering it on the stovetop to kill any bacteria.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost.
You bet! If you have leftover marinade, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure it’s properly sealed to avoid any unwanted contamination. Alternatively, if you’re batching ahead, this marinade can also be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge when you’re ready to use it again.
Here are some fabulous accompaniments that elevate your meal to the next level:
- Grilled Vegetables: From zucchini and bell peppers to mushrooms and asparagus, grilled veggies complement the flavors beautifully.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons make a refreshing side.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These creamy, buttery potatoes serve as a hearty base for your steak.
- Quinoa Salad: Packed with nutrients, a light quinoa salad adds texture and heartiness.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with spices is a simple yet satisfying side that pairs well with the flavors of the steak.
If you’re in a pinch or are looking to switch things up, consider these substitutes:
- Red Wine Vinegar For Balsamic Vinegar: It offers a similar acidity but with a slightly sharper flavor.
- Coconut Aminos For Soy Sauce: A fantastic option for those avoiding gluten and wanting a sweeter taste.
- Apple Cider Vinegar For Balsamic: Adds a fruity flavor and good acidity, ideal if you want something unique.
- Honey or Maple Syrup For Sugar/Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter note in your marinade, these are great natural substitutes.
- Spicy Mustard For Dijon: If you're craving a bit more heat, this adds a lovely kick to your marinade.
This balsamic steak marinade is a simple yet effective way to amplify your steak game. It’s packed with flavor, versatile enough to pair with various meats, and super easy to prepare. Whether you’re celebrating a summertime barbecue or just want a delicious weeknight meal, you can’t go wrong with this recipe.
So, grab your ingredients, fire up that grill, and get ready to impress your family and friends with a steak that’s bursting with flavor. Enjoy every juicy, savory bite!
Marinades are truly the secret weapon of home cooks. They elevate meats, infusing them with vibrant flavors while tenderizing them in the process. With a heart of balsamic vinegar, this marinade strikes a beautiful balance between tangy and sweet.
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic always beats jarred. It brings more flavor.
- Experiment with Different Cuts of Beef: This marinade works well with various cuts, like flank, ribeye, or sirloin.
- Don’t Skip the Marinade Time: Even a short marination of 30 minutes packs in lots of flavor, but aim for several hours or overnight for best results.
- Save Leftover Marinade: You can also use the leftover marinade as a sauce by simmering it on the stovetop to kill any bacteria.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost.
I'm Natasha Dunford, a registered dietitian from Rochelle Park, NJ, and the creator of Simple Easy Meals. My passion is helping busy individuals create delicious, nutritious meals that are easy to make and packed with flavor. Through my blog, I aim to simplify meal prep and inspire confidence in the kitchen!