Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are a delicious blend of smoky, juicy steak paired with fresh avocado salsa, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these tacos deliver vibrant flavors and satisfying textures that everyone will love. Their unique combination of spices and fresh ingredients ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can serve up these tacos in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The marinated steak and zesty avocado salsa create a delightful taste sensation.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding or removing jalapeños to suit your preference.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These tacos are great for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or outdoor parties.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh produce like tomatillos and cilantro elevates the taste and nutrition profile.

Tools and Preparation

To create these tasty grilled steak tacos, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the steak, enhancing its smoky flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining the marinade ingredients and keeping things organized during prep.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps in slicing the steak and vegetables accurately.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping the steak on the grill without losing any juices.

Ingredients

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

For the 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 Salsa

In a mixing bowl, combine:
– The tomatillos, yellow onion halves, garlic cloves, jalapeño, water, cilantro, lime juice, dried oregano, and kosher salt. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning with more lime juice if desired. Set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

In another bowl, mix:
– Orange juice, lime juice, half of the chopped cilantro, paprika, kosher salt, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and dry oregano. Add skirt steak sections into the marinade. Ensure they are well-coated. Let sit for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

• Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard excess liquid. Grill each section for about 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

• Warm corn tortillas on the grill briefly until pliable. Slice grilled steak into thin strips. Top each tortilla with sliced steak and spoon over generous amounts of avocado salsa. Garnish with green onions and white onion as desired.

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 and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

With Fresh Green Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the flavors of the tacos beautifully.

Topped with Cheese

• Crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheese adds a creamy texture and enhances the overall taste.

Accompanied by Lime Wedges

• Serve fresh lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors and adds freshness to each bite.

Garnished with Pickled Onions

• Adding pickled onions provides a sweet and tangy contrast that pairs perfectly with the smoky steak.

Served with Extra Avocado Salsa

• Offering extra avocado salsa for dipping or drizzling allows guests to customize their tacos according to their taste preferences.

Paired with Hot Sauce

• For those who enjoy spice, provide a selection of hot sauces to enhance the flavor profile of your tacos.

How to Perfect Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Making Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa is straightforward, but these tips will help you achieve perfection every time.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use high-quality skirt steak or flank steak for juicy and flavorful tacos.
• Marinate for Flavor: Marinating the steak in citrus juices not only tenderizes it but also infuses it with flavor.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before cooking. This helps achieve a nice sear while keeping the meat juicy.
• Rest Before Slicing: Let the grilled steak rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender slices.
• Warm Your Tortillas: Lightly warming your corn tortillas on the grill adds flavor and makes them more pliable.
• Balance Your Flavors: Adjust salt and acid levels according to your taste. A little extra lime juice can enhance freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving these delicious side dishes alongside your Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa.

1. Mexican Rice
   Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices offers a filling complement to your tacos.
2. Black Beans
   Seasoned black beans provide protein and fiber, making them a nutritious side option.
3. Corn Salad
   A refreshing corn salad with lime dressing adds sweetness and crunch, perfect for balancing flavors.
4. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole made from ripe avocados enhances texture and flavor richness when served alongside tacos.
5. Grilled Vegetables
   Assorted grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition, creating a vibrant plate.
6. Chips and Salsa
   Crunchy tortilla chips paired with salsa make for an enjoyable snack before diving into those tasty tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the steak can lead to bland flavor. Always allow time for marination to ensure a juicy and flavorful taco.
• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking your steak too long makes it tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for medium-rare.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using old or canned ingredients can diminish the salsa’s freshness. Opt for fresh tomatillos, cilantro, and avocados for vibrant flavors.
• Forgetting to Rest the Meat: Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling causes juices to escape. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Cold tortillas can break or tear easily. Warm them on a skillet or grill before serving to enhance flexibility and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

• Freeze the cooked steak and salsa separately in airtight containers.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What type of steak is best for Grilled Steak Tacos?

Flank steak or skirt steak works best due to its tenderness and flavor when grilled.

Can I make avocado salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salsa a few hours ahead. Just add lime juice right before serving to keep it fresh.

What toppings pair well with Grilled Steak Tacos?

Consider adding cheese, sour cream, or pickled jalapeños as delicious toppings to customize your tacos!

How do I store leftover avocado salsa?

Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best used within 24 hours.

Final Thoughts

These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are not only delicious but also customizable! Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust spice levels according to your taste. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, these tacos promise satisfaction in every bite!