Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are a vibrant and delicious option for any occasion. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or casual gatherings, these tacos are sure to impress. The combination of juicy steak and fresh avocado salsa creates a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. With easy preparation and grilling, this recipe highlights the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine while accommodating various preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor explosion: The combination of grilled steak and zesty avocado salsa delivers a mouthwatering experience.
• Quick preparation: Ready in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Versatile serving options: Great as a main dish or as part of a taco bar for parties.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, it’s a nutritious choice.
• Customizable toppings: Add your favorite toppings to make each taco unique.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor on the steak.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients for the avocado salsa seamlessly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cutting of vegetables and meat for even cooking.

Ingredients

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

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 Tacos

• 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
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil

For Serving

• 6 green onions
• 6 corn tortillas
• ¼ cup finely chopped white onion

How to Make Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Follow these simple steps to prepare your delicious Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa:

Step 1: Prepare the Salsa

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add avocado oil.
2. Sauté tomatillos, yellow onion, garlic, and jalapeño until softened.
3. Add water and simmer for about 5 minutes until tomatillos are tender.
4. Remove from heat; blend mixture with cilantro, lime juice, oregano, and salt until smooth.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

1. In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, cilantro, paprika, kosher salt, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, and avocado oil.
2. Add skirt steak sections to the marinade; let sit for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Grill marinated steak sections for about 4-5 minutes per side or until desired doneness.
3. Remove from grill; let rest before slicing against the grain.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet until pliable.
2. Fill each tortilla with sliced steak and top with avocado salsa.
3. Garnish with green onions and chopped white onion as desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa!

How to Serve Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your taco experience.

With Fresh Toppings

• Lime wedges – Squeeze fresh lime juice over tacos for an extra zesty kick.
• Sour cream – Add a dollop of sour cream to balance the spice and add creaminess.
• Pickled jalapeños – For those who love heat, pickled jalapeños provide an excellent burst of flavor.

On a Platter

• Taco bar setup – Arrange grilled steak tacos on a large platter with all toppings separately for guests to customize their tacos.
• Creative garnishes – Use edible flowers or microgreens for an eye-catching presentation.

As Party Appetizers

• Mini taco bites – Use smaller tortillas and cut the steak into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking.
• Skewers – Thread the grilled steak onto skewers alongside grilled vegetables for a fun finger food option.

How to Perfect Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

To ensure your Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa turn out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold marination – Marinate the skirt steak overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness.
• High heat grilling – Preheat your grill to high heat for that perfect sear, locking in juices and flavor.
• Resting time – Allow the steak to rest after grilling. This ensures it retains its juices when sliced.
• Fresh ingredients – Use ripe avocados and fresh herbs for the salsa to achieve vibrant flavors.
• Warm tortillas – Lightly warm corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet just before serving to make them more pliable and tasty.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Steak Tacos can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Mexican Rice – A flavorful rice dish seasoned with tomatoes, garlic, and spices complements the tacos perfectly.
2. Black Beans – Cooked black beans add protein and fiber while enhancing the overall dish with their earthy flavor.
3. Corn Salad – A refreshing corn salad mixed with cilantro, lime, and diced peppers adds crunch and sweetness.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions bring color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole made from ripe avocados pairs beautifully with tacos and adds richness.
6. Chips & Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh tomato salsa make a great appetizer before diving into the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa can be a delicious meal, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Overcooked Steak: Overcooking the steak can lead to a tough texture. To avoid this, cook the steak to medium-rare and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

• Skipping Marination: Not marinating the steak can result in bland flavor. Take time to marinate your steak with spices and juices for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling.

• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using old or wilted vegetables can ruin your salsa. Always choose fresh produce for the best taste and texture in your avocado salsa.

• Ignoring Tortilla Quality: Using low-quality tortillas can affect the overall experience of your tacos. Opt for fresh corn tortillas for a soft and flavorful base.

• Forgetting to Taste: Skipping the tasting step before serving can mean missing out on flavor adjustments. Always taste your avocado salsa and adjust seasonings, especially lime juice and salt.

• Not Preheating the Grill: Grilling on a cold surface can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Make sure to preheat your grill for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled steak tacos in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep avocado salsa in a separate container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

• Wrap each taco tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze without avocado salsa added.

Reheating Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add tacos and warm them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa:

How do I choose the right steak for grilling?

Choose cuts like skirt steak, flank steak, or flap steak as they are flavorful and tender when grilled correctly.

Can I make avocado salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare avocado salsa up to a few hours in advance. Just add lime juice right before serving to prevent browning.

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

Popular toppings include crumbled cheese, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or additional cilantro for extra flavor.

Are there any alternatives to corn tortillas?

Yes! You can use flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps if you’re looking for a low-carb option.

How spicy is the jalapeño in this recipe?

The spiciness of jalapeño varies; removing seeds reduces heat. Adjust according to your preference by using less or omitting it altogether.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are not just tasty but also versatile! You can customize them by adding different toppings or adjusting spice levels based on your taste preferences. Enjoy these tacos at gatherings or as a delightful family dinner; they’re sure to impress everyone!