Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner. The combination of smoky steak and refreshing avocado salsa creates a delightful explosion of flavors that will please everyone at the table. Easy to make and packed with fresh ingredients, these tacos are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, these tacos are an excellent choice for busy days.
• Fresh Flavors: The vibrant avocado salsa complements the juicy grilled steak, offering a refreshing taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add toppings like cheese or sour cream to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These tacos are great for parties and gatherings, allowing guests to assemble their own delicious creations.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are some must-have tools for preparing Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: This tool is crucial for achieving that irresistible smoky flavor on the steak.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing vegetables and steak easier, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to prepare different components without mixing flavors until you’re ready.

Ingredients

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

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 (for serving)

How to Make Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Step 1: Prepare the Avocado Salsa

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatillos, yellow onion, garlic, jalapeño, water, cilantro, lime juice, oregano, and kosher salt.
2. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

1. In a bowl, mix together orange juice, lime juice, half of the chopped cilantro, paprika, salt, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano.
2. Add skirt steak to the marinade. Coat well and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Remove steak from marinade and discard excess marinade.
3. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until desired doneness.
4. Let it rest before slicing against the grain into thin strips.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

1. Warm corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
2. Fill each tortilla with sliced steak.
3. Top generously with avocado salsa and sprinkle with remaining chopped cilantro and white onion.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa!

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. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

Fresh Lime Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos for an extra zesty flavor.

Crumbled Cheese

• Add crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for a creamy texture and salty bite.

Pickled Jalapeños

• Serve pickled jalapeños on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick of heat.

Sliced Radishes

• Garnish with thinly sliced radishes for a crunchy, peppery addition that brightens the dish.

Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt complements the spicy flavors and adds creaminess.

Extra Avocado Salsa

• Serve additional avocado salsa on the side for generous scooping, enhancing every bite.

How to Perfect Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Creating flawless Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa is easier than you think. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for fresh skirt steak or flank steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Marinate for Flavor: Allow your steak to marinate in citrus juices and spices for at least 30 minutes to deepen the taste.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before cooking; this helps achieve a perfect sear on your steak.
• Rest the Meat: After grilling, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
• Warm Your Tortillas: Lightly toast corn tortillas on the grill or stovetop to enhance their flavor and flexibility.
• Customize Your Salsa: Feel free to add other ingredients like mango or pineapple for a unique twist on your avocado salsa.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Pairing sides with your Grilled Steak Tacos can enhance the meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
   Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime provides sweet and savory flavors.

2. Black Bean Salad
   A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro makes for a nutritious side full of protein.

3. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and lime juice complements the tacos perfectly while adding freshness.

4. Guacamole and Chips
   Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips offers a classic appetizer that everyone loves.

5. Pico de Gallo
   Fresh tomato salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds brightness and crunch alongside tacos.

6. Grilled Vegetables
   Mixed seasonal vegetables grilled until tender provide a deliciously smoky side option that pairs well with steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making grilled steak tacos doesn’t have to be complicated, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your tacos turn out perfectly.

• Using overcooked steak: Overcooking the steak can lead to a tough texture. Aim for medium-rare and use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Skipping marination: Not allowing the steak to marinate can result in bland flavors. Marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling for maximum taste.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using stale tortillas or old produce will diminish flavor. Always use fresh corn tortillas and ripe avocados for the best results.
• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
• Not balancing flavors in salsa: A bland salsa can ruin your tacos. Adjust lime juice and seasoning until you achieve a balanced flavor that complements the steak.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled steak tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last up to 3 days if properly stored.

Freezing Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

• For longer storage, freeze the components separately (steak, toppings, tortillas).
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap tacos in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate; heat in 30-second intervals until warm, about 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add tacos without oil, and warm for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making grilled steak tacos with avocado salsa.

How do I make Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa spicy?

You can increase the heat by adding more jalapeños or incorporating a dash of hot sauce into your salsa.

Can I use different meats for Grilled Steak Tacos?

Absolutely! You can substitute skirt steak with chicken, turkey, or lamb based on your preference.

What toppings go well with Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa?

Consider adding diced tomatoes, crumbled cheese, or sliced radishes for extra flavor and texture.

How do I ensure my avocado stays fresh in the salsa?

To keep avocados from browning, mix them with lime juice right before serving.

Final Thoughts

These grilled steak tacos with avocado salsa are not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try for a flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy!