Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are the perfect mix of smoky, juicy flavors and a touch of spice that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos are sure to impress. The combination of grilled steak and fresh avocado salsa makes them not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with rich flavors from the grilled steak and zesty avocado salsa.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or parties; everyone loves a good taco!
• Healthy Option: Made with fresh ingredients, this recipe is lighter than traditional tacos while still being satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or toppings to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious grilled steak tacos, you’ll need some essential tools that make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides the ideal cooking surface for achieving that smoky flavor and perfect grill marks on the steak.
• Cutting board: Essential for safely preparing your ingredients while keeping your workspace organized.
• Sharp knife: A good knife ensures clean cuts for your vegetables and meat, making prep easier.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining your avocado salsa ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

For these Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa, gather the following ingredients:

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 Filling

• 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

How to Make Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Step 1: Prepare the Salsa

Start by blending your salsa ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Tomatillos, yellow onion, garlic, jalapeño, water, cilantro, lime juice, dry oregano, and kosher salt.
2. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

In another bowl:
1. Mix together orange juice, lime juice, chopped cilantro, paprika, kosher salt, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and dry oregano.
2. Add skirt steak pieces to the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat:
1. Remove steak from marinade and discard excess liquid.
2. Grill each piece for about 4–5 minutes per side or until desired doneness is reached.
3. Once cooked through, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 4: Warm Tortillas

While the steak rests:
1. Warm corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet until pliable.

Step 5: Assemble Tacos

To assemble each taco:
1. Place sliced steak on a warm tortilla.
2. Top generously with avocado salsa and sprinkle with green onions and chopped white onion.
3. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side if desired.

Enjoy these Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa as an easy yet flavorful meal option!

How to Serve Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard barbecue, the way you serve them can enhance the experience.

Toppings to Enhance Flavor

• Fresh Cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an extra burst of freshness.
• Lime Wedges – Serve lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos to brighten up the flavors.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spice.

Accompaniments for a Complete Meal

• Refried Beans – This classic side is hearty and complements tacos well.
• Mexican Street Corn – Grilled corn with mayo, cheese, and chili powder makes a delicious pairing.
• Rice and Beans – A simple dish that provides additional substance and protein.

Drinks to Pair

• Margaritas – A classic choice that enhances the festive vibe of your taco night.
• Agua Fresca – Refreshing fruit-infused water can be a lighter, non-alcoholic option.

How to Perfect Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Perfecting your Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out great every time.

• Use High-Quality Meat – Choose fresh skirt steak or flank steak for tender and flavorful results.
• Marinate Overnight – Marinating your steak overnight allows flavors to penetrate deeply, enhancing taste.
• Preheat Your Grill – Ensure your grill is hot before cooking; this helps achieve those perfect grill marks.
• Slice Against the Grain – After grilling, slicing the meat against the grain ensures each bite is tender.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

To elevate your meal experience, consider these delightful side dishes. They pair well with Grilled Steak Tacos and add variety to your table.

1. Chips and Guacamole – Crunchy tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole make a great appetizer.
2. Pico de Gallo – Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness and crunch.
3. Mexican Rice – Flavored rice cooked with spices and vegetables complements tacos beautifully.
4. Grilled Veggies – Seasonal veggies grilled alongside your steak can add some color and health benefits.
5. Black Bean Salad – A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and bell peppers brings nutrition to your plate.
6. Cabbage Slaw – A crunchy slaw dressed in lime juice offers a nice contrast to the warm tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa, a few common mistakes can hinder your taco experience. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is perfect.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the steak properly can lead to less flavor. Use a mixture of lime juice and spices to enhance the meat’s taste.
• Overcooking the steak: Cooking steak too long will make it tough and dry. Aim for medium-rare to keep it juicy and tender.
• Using stale tortillas: Old tortillas can ruin your tacos’ texture. Always use fresh corn tortillas for the best results.
• Neglecting toppings: Forgetting to prepare your toppings, like fresh cilantro or onions, can make tacos bland. Have everything ready before assembling your tacos.
• Ignoring balance in flavors: Failing to balance spicy, salty, and fresh components can leave tacos one-dimensional. Adjust seasonings and add lime juice for brightness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your grilled steak tacos in an airtight container.
• They will remain fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each taco for about 1-2 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of steak is best for Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa?

Skirt steak is ideal due to its flavor and tenderness when grilled. Flank or flap steak are great alternatives as well.

Can I make the avocado salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the avocado salsa a few hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container to prevent browning.

What toppings pair well with these grilled steak tacos?

In addition to avocado salsa, you may enjoy adding crumbled cheese, sour cream, or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor.

How spicy are these Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa?

The spice level depends on how much jalapeño you use. For milder heat, remove the seeds before adding it to the salsa.

Final Thoughts

These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different toppings or adjusting the spice level according to your taste. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering; it’s sure to impress!