Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are smoky, juicy, and just the right amount of spicy. Perfect for summer gatherings or a weeknight dinner, these tacos are sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of grilled steak and fresh avocado salsa creates a vibrant dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The smoky grilled steak paired with zesty avocado salsa brings a delightful taste to every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Great for casual dinners, parties, or even meal prep; these tacos fit any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and lean protein, this recipe is a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or additional salsas for extra flair.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delicious tacos, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or grill
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or grill: Ideal for achieving that perfect sear on the steak while enhancing its flavor.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts for both meat and veggies, making prep easier.
• Mixing bowl: Great for combining ingredients like spices and marinades before applying them to the steak.

Ingredients

These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are smoky, juicy, just the right amount of spicy and absolutely bursting with flavour.

For the Avocado Salsa:

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1 pound tomatillos (husks peeled and rinsed well)
• ½ yellow onion (sliced in half)
• 2 cloves garlic (skins peeled)
• 1 jalapeño (sliced in half, seeds removed for mild heat)
• ¼ cup water
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime (around 2 tablespoons, plus more to taste)
• ½ teaspoon dry oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)

For the Steak:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 16 ounces skirt steak (cut into 6-inch sections; substitute flap steak or flank steak)
• Juice of 1 orange (around ¼ cup)
• Juice of 1 large lime (around 2 tablespoons)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro (divided in half)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon freshly-cracked black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dry oregano

For Serving:

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 6 green onions
• 6 corn tortillas
• ¼ cup finely chopped white onion (for serving)

How to Make Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Step 1: Prepare the Avocado Salsa

• Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add tomatillos, yellow onion halves, garlic cloves, jalapeño halves, and water. Cook until tomatillos are soft.
• Remove from heat; stir in cilantro, lime juice, oregano, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

• In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, half of the chopped cilantro, paprika, kosher salt, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and dry oregano.
• Place the skirt steak in the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak up all those flavors.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

• Preheat your grill or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
• Grill the marinated steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked to your liking. Let it rest before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

• Warm corn tortillas on the grill or stovetop until pliable.
• Slice the grilled steak into thin strips.
• On each tortilla, layer sliced steak and top with avocado salsa. Add white onions and remaining chopped cilantro if desired.

Now you’re ready to serve these delightful Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos can be served alongside different accompaniments to enhance their flavor and appeal.

Fresh Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra zing when squeezed over the tacos.

Salsas and Sauces

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh tomato salsa that adds crunch and acidity.
• Chipotle Sauce: A smoky sauce that complements the grilled steak beautifully.

Toppings

• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: For a creamy element, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Pickled Red Onions: These provide a tangy contrast to the savory steak.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with herbs makes a perfect pairing.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add richness and depth to the meal.

How to Perfect Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

To achieve the best flavor and texture from your Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa, consider these tips for perfection.

• Bold Marinade: Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate deeply.
• Proper Heat: Ensure your grill is hot before cooking; this helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
• Resting Time: Let the steak rest after grilling; this keeps it juicy when sliced.
• Warm Tortillas: Warm your corn tortillas on the grill before assembling; this enhances their flavor and texture.
• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh produce for your avocado salsa; it makes all the difference in taste.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Charred corn on the cob topped with creamy sauce, cheese, and spices.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado dressed in lime juice.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip seasoned with lime juice, cilantro, and salt—perfect for scooping!
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with lime juice and fresh cilantro for added zest.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make a classic appetizer.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa, veggies, and spices offer a hearty option alongside tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Not marinating the meat: Skipping this step can lead to bland tacos. Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the steak: This can make your steak tough and dry. Aim for medium-rare for juicy results, using a meat thermometer if needed.
• Ignoring the toppings: Toppings like avocado salsa elevate your tacos. Don’t skimp on fresh ingredients; they add flavor and texture.
• Using stale tortillas: Old tortillas can ruin the entire taco experience. Always use fresh corn tortillas for the best taste and pliability.
• Forgetting about seasoning: Lack of seasoning can lead to flat flavors. Use spices like cumin and paprika generously for a flavorful kick.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep meat and salsa separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tacos in foil and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, adding a little oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa.

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Yes, you can substitute flank steak or flap steak if skirt steak is unavailable. Just ensure it’s well-marinated.

What can I serve with Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa?

You can pair these tacos with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I make the avocado salsa?

Simply blend tomatillos, onion, garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, oregano, and salt until smooth for a delicious salsa.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and chop ingredients ahead of time. Just assemble before serving.

Final Thoughts

These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are a delightful mix of flavors perfect for any occasion. The versatility allows you to customize toppings or spice levels to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it may become your new favorite!