Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood by the grill, the tantalizing aroma of smoky meat danced through the air, reminding me of sun-soaked summer gatherings. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Smoky Grilled Steak Tacos with Creamy Avocado Salsa. These tacos are not only incredibly quick to whip up, making them ideal for a busy weeknight, but they also pack a bold punch of flavor that will delight your taste buds. The perfectly marinated steak, kissed by the grill’s flames, reaches a juicy tenderness that pairs beautifully with the luscious avocado salsa. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply craving a satisfying homemade meal, this recipe is bound to impress. Are you ready to elevate your taco night to the next level? Why are these tacos a game-changer? Quick and Easy: This recipe is designed for busy nights, allowing you to create delicious grilled steak tacos in under 30 minutes. Bursting with Flavor: The marinated steak is smoky and juicy, while the creamy avocado salsa adds a fresh zing, creating an explosion of taste in every bite. Versatile Enjoyment: Feel free to customize your tacos with different steak cuts or adjust the spice level to cater to your family’s preferences. You can even amp up the crunch with some cabbage or pickled onions! Perfect for Gatherings: These tacos are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any cookout or family dinner. Pair them with a refreshing margarita or some Mexican street corn for a complete fiesta. Healthy & Wholesome: With balanced nutrition at approximately 350 calories per serving, these tacos are a guilt-free treat that doesn’t compromise on flavor – just what you need to satisfy that taco craving! Enjoy your next taco night with confidence! Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa Ingredients • Discover the key flavors that make these tacos irresistible! For the Salsa Avocado Oil – Enhances flavor and helps in sautéing; substitute with olive oil for a different taste. Tomatillos – Provide a tart, fresh flavor for the salsa; substitute with green tomatoes if unavailable. Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; use red onion for a sharper taste. Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh is preferred, but powdered garlic can be used cautiously. Jalapeño – Provides heat; remove seeds for a milder flavor or substitute with a milder pepper. Water – Helps cook the salsa ingredients until tender; no substitutes needed. Fresh Cilantro – Adds freshness and herbaceous notes; flat-leaf parsley can be used if needed. Lime Juice – Offers acidity and brightness; fresh lime is best, but bottled juice can work in a pinch. Dry Oregano – Provides earthy flavor; can be substituted with Italian seasoning. Kosher Salt – Enhances taste; regular salt can be used, adjusting to taste. Ripe Avocado – Creamy texture for salsa; may substitute with sour cream for richness. For the Steak Skirt Steak – Main protein component; alternatives include flap steak, flank steak, or ribeye for flavor. Orange Juice – Adds sweetness and balances acidity; use pineapple juice for a tropical twist. Paprika, Onion Powder, Black Pepper, Smoked Paprika, Ground Cumin – A blend of spices to infuse flavor; adjust according to preference. For Assembling Green Onions – Adds crunch and mild onion flavor; scallions can be used as a substitute. Corn Tortillas – Traditional wrap; flour tortillas can be used for a softer texture. White Onion – For garnishing; use red onion for a different flavor profile. With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating mouthwatering Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa that your friends and family will rave about! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa Step 1: Prepare the Salsa Verde Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 4 halved tomatillos, 1 chopped yellow onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 chopped jalapeño. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the tomatillos are charred and softened. Pour in 1/4 cup of water, cooking until tender, about 5 more minutes. Remove from heat and blend with 1/2 cup cilantro, juice of 2 limes, 1 teaspoon oregano, and 1 teaspoon salt, then mix in 1 diced ripe avocado. Refrigerate salsa until ready to use. Step 2: Marinate the Steak In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of skirt steak with 1/4 cup orange juice, the juice of 1 lime, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, and a blend of spices, including 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1 teaspoon each of onion powder and black pepper. Toss to coat and let the steak marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 6 hours for deeper flavor, in the refrigerator. Step 3: Cook the Steak Preheat your grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat, about 400°F. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and lightly coat it with oil. Grill the steak for about 4 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 125°F for medium-rare. About 2 minutes before the steak is done, add sliced green onions to the grill to char, enhancing their sweetness. Step 4: Warm Tortillas While the steak is resting, warm the corn tortillas directly on the grill or in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side, until pliable and slightly charred. This step is crucial for achieving the authentic flavor of your Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa and will make them easier to fold. Step 5: Assemble Tacos Thinly slice the rested steak against the grain and layer it inside each warmed tortilla. Generously top with the creamy avocado salsa and a sprinkling of diced white onion or additional cilantro. For an extra hit of flavor, serve each taco with charred green onions and lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top before enjoying. Tips for the Best Grilled Steak Tacos Rest the Steak: Allow the steak to rest for at least 6 minutes after cooking to lock in its juiciness, enhancing the overall flavor of your grilled steak tacos. Perfect Tortilla Warming: Warm corn tortillas directly over an open flame for a delightful char. This adds authentic flavor and makes them pliable for easy folding. Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the heat to your liking by modifying the jalapeño quantity. Removing the seeds can also help achieve milder grilled steak tacos for those who prefer less heat. Marination Time Matters: For the best flavor, let the steak marinate for at least 1 hour but up to 6 hours. This infuses the meat with fantastic smoky, citrusy flavors. Alternative Cooking Methods: If you don’t have access to a grill, a cast-iron skillet or carbon-steel pan works beautifully to achieve that perfect sear on your steak. Finish with Freshness: Always top your tacos with extra cilantro or diced onions for a burst of freshness that complements the hearty flavors, completing your grilled steak tacos experience. What to Serve with Smoky Grilled Steak Tacos with Creamy Avocado Salsa Imagine transforming your taco night into a festive feast, where each bite is complemented by vibrant sides and refreshing drinks. Mexican Street Corn: This creamy side dish brings a delightful crunch and rich flavor, enhancing the sweet and smoky notes of the tacos. Every bite feels like a summer celebration! Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and lime, this salad adds a zesty crunch that perfectly balances the richness of the steak and salsa. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime offers a bright flavor that pairs beautifully with the tacos’ smoky and spicy elements. Guacamole and Chips: Creamy, flavorful guacamole served with crisp tortilla chips is another layer of indulgence that complements the tacos wonderfully. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa, filled with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, adds an extra burst of brightness, making each bite of taco an adventure. Margaritas: A refreshing lime margarita, perhaps with a hint of jalapeño, ties the meal together and enhances the Mexican-inspired theme perfectly. Churros: For dessert, crispy churros dusted with cinnamon sugar bring a sweet conclusion that contrasts deliciously with the savory tacos. These side options not only elevate your meal but also create a festive atmosphere, ensuring your taco night is memorable for all! Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa Variations Feel free to get creative with these tacos, making them uniquely yours with these delightful twists! Dairy-Free: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt in the avocado salsa for a lighter, tangy alternative that’s still rich and creamy. Heat Adjustment: For a milder dish, replace jalapeño with bell pepper or simply omit the seeds. This will bring the flavor without too much kick! Texture Boost: Add shredded cabbage for an extra crunch, or try crispy bacon bits to elevate your taco experience with a savory twist that’ll make you smile. Flavor Fusion: Mix in salsa verde with the avocado salsa for an additional layer of flavor that brightens each bite. The combination is a delightful surprise! Steak Variation: Experiment with different cuts of beef like flank steak or tender ribeye. Each will bring its own wonderful flavor and tenderness, just find your favorite! Tropical Twist: Substitute orange juice with pineapple juice in the marinade for a sweet, tropical flair that complements the dish beautifully. Smokier Delight: Enhance the smoky flavor by adding smoked sea salt to both the salsa and the steak marinade. It’s a great way to amp up that grill essence. These variations will not only keep your grilled steak tacos exciting but will also cater to the diverse preferences of your guests or family. For even more delicious ideas, you might enjoy trying my Balsamic Steak Gorgonzola or a fresh take on the Steak Avocado Corn – both perfect on taco night! Make Ahead Options These Smoky Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dinner with minimal effort on busy weeknights! You can prepare the avocado salsa up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep its vibrant flavor intact. Additionally, marinate the skirt steak for up to 24 hours ahead of time, which will deepen its flavors beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the steak and warm the tortillas, assembling the tacos in just a few minutes for restaurant-quality results right at home. Enjoy the time-saving benefits of these make-ahead options! How to Store and Freeze Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa Room Temperature: Tacos are best enjoyed fresh. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety. Fridge: Store any leftover grilled steak tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain their texture, separate the salsa from the tacos before storing. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat before serving. Reheating: To enjoy your frozen tacos, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the grill or in a skillet until warmed through. This will help retain the juicy quality of the grilled steak. Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa Recipe FAQs How do I select the best steak for my tacos? Absolutely! For the juiciest and most flavorful tacos, I recommend using skirt steak. Look for cuts that are bright red with a good amount of marbling. Other great alternatives include flank steak or ribeye, which also work beautifully in this recipe. Choose steaks that are fresh without dark spots or odd odors. How should I store leftover tacos? Very! Store any leftover grilled steak tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the textures intact, I suggest separating the salsa from the tacos before storing. This way, the tortillas won’t get soggy, and you can enjoy them fresh upon reheating. Can I freeze the grilled steak tacos? Definitely! For freezing, wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the tacos overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the grill or in a skillet until warmed through, maintaining that juicy tenderness. What if the salsa is too spicy for my taste? If the salsa turns out spicier than you’d like, don’t fret! You can mellow it out by adding more diced avocado or a dollop of sour cream to the mixture. This will help balance out the heat and create a creamier texture. You can also try adding more lime juice or a sprinkle of sugar to cut through the spice. What are some common issues when making the salsa? If you find your salsa is too runny, try adding more diced avocado to thicken it up. Alternatively, let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit, as this can help it firm up. On the other hand, if the salsa tastes flat, a splash of extra lime juice or a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors beautifully. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! These grilled steak tacos are inherently gluten-free, especially when making them with corn tortillas. Just check that your other ingredients, such as spices and oils, are gluten-free to maintain that dietary requirement. Enjoy your flavorful tacos without worry! Smoky Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa Bliss Enjoy these Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa, a flavorful dish packed with smoky goodness and fresh ingredients. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsMarinating Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 tacosCourse: DinnerCuisine: MexicanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salsa2 tablespoons Avocado Oil Substitute with olive oil for a different taste.4 Tomatillos Substitute with green tomatoes if unavailable.1 Yellow Onion Use red onion for a sharper taste.2 cloves Garlic Fresh is preferred, powdered can be used cautiously.1 Jalapeño Remove seeds for milder flavor.1/4 cup Water1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro Flat-leaf parsley can be used if needed.2 tablespoons Lime Juice Fresh lime is best, bottled juice can work.1 teaspoon Dry Oregano Can be substituted with Italian seasoning.1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.1 Ripe Avocado May substitute with sour cream for richness.For the Steak1 pound Skirt Steak Alternatives include flap steak, flank steak, or ribeye.1/4 cup Orange Juice Use pineapple juice for a tropical twist.1 teaspoon Paprika Adjust according to preference.1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adjust according to preference.1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to preference.1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adjust according to preference.1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adjust according to preference.For Assembling2 Green Onions Scallions can be used as a substitute.8 Corn Tortillas Flour tortillas can be used for a softer texture.1 White Onion Use red onion for a different flavor profile. Equipment Frying pangrillMixing bowlblenderSpatula Method Prepare the Salsa VerdeHeat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add 4 halved tomatillos, 1 chopped yellow onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 chopped jalapeño. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the tomatillos are charred and softened. Pour in 1/4 cup of water, cooking until tender, about 5 more minutes. Remove from heat and blend with 1/2 cup cilantro, juice of 2 limes, 1 teaspoon oregano, and 1 teaspoon salt, then mix in 1 diced ripe avocado. Refrigerate salsa until ready to use.Marinate the SteakIn a large bowl, combine 1 pound of skirt steak with 1/4 cup orange juice, the juice of 1 lime, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, and a blend of spices, including 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1 teaspoon each of onion powder and black pepper. Toss to coat and let the steak marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 6 hours for deeper flavor, in the refrigerator.Cook the SteakPreheat your grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat, about 400°F. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and lightly coat it with oil. Grill the steak for about 4 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 125°F for medium-rare. About 2 minutes before the steak is done, add sliced green onions to the grill to char.Warm TortillasWhile the steak is resting, warm the corn tortillas directly on the grill or in a skillet for about 30 seconds on each side. This step is crucial for achieving the authentic flavor of your Grilled Steak Tacos.Assemble TacosThinly slice the rested steak against the grain and layer it inside each warmed tortilla. Generously top with the creamy avocado salsa and a sprinkling of diced white onion or additional cilantro. Serve each taco with charred green onions and lime wedges on the side. Nutrition Serving: 1tacoCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg NotesAllow the steak to rest for at least 6 minutes after cooking for optimal juiciness. Warm corn tortillas over an open flame for an authentic taste. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
