Grilled Steak Tacos Avocado Salsa: Recipe & Delicious Guide

Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, perfectly grilled steak, nestled in a warm tortilla, and topped with a vibrant, creamy avocado salsa. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

Tacos, a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, have a rich history dating back centuries. Originally a simple and portable food for laborers, they’ve evolved into a global phenomenon, with countless variations reflecting regional flavors and culinary creativity. The addition of grilled steak elevates the humble taco to a gourmet delight, while the avocado salsa adds a refreshing twist that perfectly complements the richness of the meat.

What makes Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa so irresistible? It’s the symphony of flavors and textures. The smoky char of the grilled steak, the soft warmth of the tortilla, and the cool, creamy avocado salsa create a harmonious balance that’s simply divine. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! Perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a lively weekend gathering, or even a sophisticated backyard barbecue. The ease of preparation and the customizable nature of this dish make it a crowd-pleaser every time. So, grab your grill and get ready to create some taco magic!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Steak:
• 2 (8-ounce) ribeye steaks, about 1-inch thick
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Avocado Salsa:
• 2 ripe avocados, pitted and diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Tacos:
• 12 corn tortillas
• Optional toppings: crumbled cotija cheese, sour cream, hot sauce, lime wedges

Preparing the Steak Rub

Okay, let’s get started! First, we’re going to make a fantastic rub for our ribeye steaks. This rub is packed with flavor and will give the steaks a beautiful crust when grilled.

1. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the salt – it really helps to bring out the flavor of the steak.
3. Mix all the spices together until well combined.

Seasoning and Preparing the Steaks

Now, let’s get those steaks ready for the grill. This is where the magic happens!

1. Pat the ribeye steaks dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Excess moisture will steam the steak instead of searing it.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of each steak.
3. Generously rub the spice mixture all over both sides of each steak, making sure to coat them evenly. Press the rub into the steak so it adheres well.
4. Let the steaks rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat and helps the steak cook more evenly. Don’t skip this step!

Making the Avocado Salsa

While the steaks are resting, let’s whip up a fresh and vibrant avocado salsa. This salsa is the perfect complement to the rich, savory steak.

1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocados, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño (if using).
2. Add the freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, and cumin.
3. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Gently mix all the ingredients together, being careful not to mash the avocados too much. You want to keep some texture in the salsa.
5. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more lime juice for extra tang or a pinch more salt to bring out the flavors.
6. Cover the salsa and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. This will help the flavors meld together and keep the avocado from browning.

Grilling the Steaks

Alright, it’s grilling time! This is where we transform those seasoned steaks into juicy, flavorful perfection.

1. Preheat your grill to high heat. You want the grill grates to be nice and hot so you can get a good sear on the steaks.
2. Clean the grill grates thoroughly with a wire brush. This will prevent the steaks from sticking.
3. Lightly oil the grill grates with a high-heat oil, such as canola or vegetable oil. This will further help prevent sticking.
4. Place the steaks on the hot grill grates.
5. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steaks are cooked to your liking.
   • For medium-rare: 130-135°F
   • For medium: 135-145°F
   • For medium-well: 145-155°F
   • For well-done: 155°F and above (though I don’t recommend cooking ribeye to well-done!)
6. Once the steaks are cooked to your desired doneness, remove them from the grill and place them on a cutting board.
7. Let the steaks rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Don’t skip this step – it’s crucial!

Slicing the Steaks

Now that the steaks have rested, it’s time to slice them up and get ready for the tacos!

1. Using a sharp knife, slice the steaks against the grain into thin strips. Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making the steak more tender and easier to chew.

Warming the Tortillas

While the steak is resting, or after you’ve sliced it, warm up those tortillas. Warm tortillas are much more pliable and flavorful than cold ones.

1. There are several ways to warm tortillas:
   • On a dry skillet: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds per side, until softened and slightly browned.
   • In the microwave: Wrap a stack of tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through.
   • On the grill: Briefly grill each tortilla for about 15-20 seconds per side, until softened and slightly charred.
2. Keep the warmed tortillas wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and pliable until you’re ready to assemble the tacos.

Assembling the Tacos

Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for – assembling the tacos! This is where you get to customize your tacos to your liking.

1. Place a few slices of grilled steak in the center of each warmed tortilla.
2. Top with a generous spoonful of the avocado salsa.
3. Add any optional toppings you like, such as crumbled cotija cheese, sour cream, hot sauce, or lime wedges.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are truly a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss. From the smoky char of the perfectly grilled steak to the creamy, vibrant freshness of the avocado salsa, every bite is a celebration of textures and tastes. I genuinely believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s not just about following instructions; it’s about creating an experience. It’s about bringing people together around a delicious, satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

Why are these tacos a must-try? Because they offer a restaurant-quality experience in the comfort of your own home. The combination of tender, juicy steak and the bright, zesty avocado salsa is simply irresistible. Plus, the recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking.

Looking for some serving suggestions? I love to serve these tacos with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete and satisfying meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese adds an extra layer of richness. And don’t forget the lime wedges! A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up all the flavors and adds a final touch of zing.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with variations to make this recipe your own. If you’re feeling adventurous, try marinating the steak in a blend of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika for an extra kick of flavor. You could also swap out the avocado salsa for a mango salsa or a pineapple salsa for a sweeter, more tropical twist. For a vegetarian option, grilled halloumi cheese or portobello mushrooms would be fantastic substitutes for the steak. And if you’re watching your carbs, you can easily serve the steak and salsa over a bed of lettuce for a delicious and healthy taco salad.

Another variation I’ve enjoyed is adding a quick pickled red onion. The acidity cuts through the richness of the steak and avocado, adding a delightful tang. Simply thinly slice a red onion and soak it in a mixture of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt for about 30 minutes. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference!

Don’t be intimidated by the grilling process. With a little practice, you’ll be grilling steak like a pro in no time. Just remember to preheat your grill properly, season the steak generously, and don’t overcook it. A medium-rare to medium doneness is ideal for maximum tenderness and flavor. And remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes after grilling before slicing it against the grain. This will help to keep the juices inside and ensure a more tender and flavorful taco.

I’m so confident that you’ll love these Grilled Steak Tacos that I can’t wait for you to try them! So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal.

Once you’ve made them, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments – I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration. Happy cooking!