Ingredients
Steak and Rub
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/4 pounds strip steak, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Additional Ingredients
- 8 ounces grape tomatoes
- 6 ounces mozzarella pearls
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to 400°F and prepare a fire using pecan or hickory wood to lend a smoky flavor to the steak pieces and tomatoes.
- Make the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper to create the flavorful rub.
- Coat the Steak: Place the cut strip steak pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the steak and toss to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
- Apply the Rub: Sprinkle the dry rub mixture over the oiled steak pieces. Toss thoroughly to coat each piece well with the rub for maximum flavor.
- Grill Steak and Tomatoes: Arrange the steak bites and grape tomatoes on the grill over indirect heat. Close the grill lid and cook them for about 4 minutes to start the cooking process and infuse smoky flavor.
- Flip and Continue Grilling: Remove the tomatoes from the grill and flip the steak pieces. Continue grilling the steak until it reaches your desired doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F.
- Assemble the Appetizers: Using appetizer picks, thread a grape tomato, followed by a mozzarella pearl, and then a grilled steak bite. Repeat the pattern as desired for each skewer.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by garnishing the appetizer picks with minced fresh basil. Serve these vibrant Steak Caprese Appetizers immediately to enjoy their warm, smoky flavors.
Notes
- For best smoky flavor, use pecan or hickory wood chips as recommended.
- Ensure your grill is properly preheated to 400°F to achieve a good sear without overcooking.
- Check steak internal temperature with a meat thermometer for perfect doneness—135°F is ideal for medium-rare.
- You can substitute strip steak with other tender cuts like sirloin if preferred.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the mozzarella pearls at their best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
