Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa
These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are a delightful way to elevate your taco night. Perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion where flavor takes center stage, these tacos feature smoky steak paired with a refreshing avocado salsa. The combination of zesty lime and creamy avocado brings a unique twist to classic tacos, making them irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor: Each bite is packed with the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors.
- Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve as a casual dinner or dress them up for a festive gathering — they fit any occasion!
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with fresh produce like tomatillos and avocado, this dish is both healthy and satisfying.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice levels or toppings to suit your taste preferences, making it enjoyable for everyone.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare these Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa, you’ll need some essential tools that will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Provides the high heat needed for perfectly searing the steak, enhancing its flavor with those signature grill marks.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients for the salsa and marinating the steak, keeping everything organized.
- Chef’s knife: A sturdy knife allows for precise cutting of vegetables and meat, ensuring even cooking and presentation.

Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa:
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
Step 1: Prepare the Salsa
Start by making the avocado salsa that will accompany your tacos.
- In a blender or food processor, combine:
- Tomatillos
- Yellow onion
- Garlic cloves
- Jalapeño
- Water
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime juice
- Dry oregano
- Kosher salt
- Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning with additional lime juice or salt as necessary.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
While the salsa chills in the fridge, marinate your steak.
- In a mixing bowl:
- Combine orange juice, lime juice, chopped cilantro, paprika, kosher salt, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and dry oregano.
- Add skirt steak sections to the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes while you prepare your grill.
Step 3: Grill the Steak
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove steak from marinade (discard marinade) and place on the grill.
- Grill each side for about 4–5 minutes or until desired doneness. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain.
Step 4: Warm Tortillas
While the steak rests:
- Heat corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side until warm and pliable.
Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos
Now it’s time to put everything together!
- Slice grilled steak into strips.
- On each tortilla:
- Layer sliced steak,
- Top with avocado salsa,
- Add chopped green onions,
- Finish off with white onions.
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 dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your taco experience.
With Fresh Toppings
- Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herby flavor that complements the tacos perfectly.
- Diced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes provide a juicy burst and color to your tacos.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A creamy addition that balances the spices in the steak.
On a Taco Bar
- DIY Assembly: Set up a taco bar where guests can assemble their own tacos with various toppings.
- Extra Salsas: Include different types of salsa for added variety, such as mango salsa or pineapple salsa.
With Squeeze of Lime
- Fresh Lime Wedges: Offer lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their tacos, enhancing the flavor with fresh acidity.
As Part of a Festive Meal
- Serve with Drinks: Pair your tacos with refreshing beverages like iced tea or fruit-infused water for a festive feel.
- Family Style: Present all ingredients on the table for a communal dining experience, encouraging everyone to dig in together.
How to Perfect Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Perfecting your Grilled Steak Tacos requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.
- Bold Marinade: Marinate your steak for at least one hour before grilling to infuse rich flavors.
- High Heat for Searing: Grill on high heat for short periods to achieve a nice char without overcooking.
- Resting Time is Key: Allow the grilled steak to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.
- Warm Tortillas: Warm your corn tortillas on the grill briefly before serving. This enhances their flavor and makes them more pliable.
- Balance Flavors: Always taste and adjust seasoning in your avocado salsa to find the perfect balance between tangy and spicy.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Pairing side dishes with Grilled Steak Tacos can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish well.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices adds a filling element alongside tacos.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a hearty side that pairs beautifully with steak tacos.
- Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of corn, bell peppers, and lime brings sweetness and crunch to the table.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers grilled until tender make a colorful addition.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances flavor and provides an additional layer of richness when served alongside tacos.
- Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa create an enjoyable starter or snack before the main course.
- Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw dressed lightly adds freshness and textural contrast to the meal.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges baked until crispy are an excellent comfort food side option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling steak tacos can be an exciting culinary experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes that affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Skipping marination: Not allowing your steak to marinate can result in bland flavor. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the spices soak in.
- Overcooking the steak: Cooking the steak too long makes it tough. Aim for a medium-rare finish, around 130°F (54°C), for juicy results.
- Neglecting the tortilla: Using cold or stale tortillas can ruin your tacos. Warm your corn tortillas on a skillet before assembling.
- Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to dull tacos. Be generous with spices and taste as you go for balanced flavors.
- Not letting the steak rest: Slicing immediately after cooking causes juices to run out. Let your steak rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover grilled steak tacos in an airtight container.
- They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa
- Wrap individual tacos in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place tacos in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa.
How do I choose the right cut of beef for grilled steak tacos?
Selecting cuts like skirt steak, flap steak, or flank steak will yield tender and flavorful results when grilled properly.
Can I make these tacos spicy?
Absolutely! Adjust the spiciness by adding more jalapeños or including spicy salsa alongside the avocado salsa.
How do I prepare avocado salsa?
Simply blend or mash ripe avocados with tomatillos, onions, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and jalapeños for a fresh topping.
What can I serve with Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa?
Pair these delicious tacos with sides like black beans, Mexican rice, or corn salad for a complete meal experience.
Final Thoughts
These Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering. With their smoky flavor and vibrant toppings, they are sure to please everyone at the table. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite toppings or using different meats!
Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa are a vibrant and flavorful addition to your taco night, perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. These tacos feature juicy, smoky steak paired with a refreshing avocado salsa that elevates every bite. The combination of zesty lime, creamy avocado, and fresh tomatillos creates a unique twist on traditional tacos, making them irresistible. Customizable for every palate, these tacos are sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (8 tacos) 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 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
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 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)
- ½ 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
- 6 green onions
- 6 corn tortillas
- ¼ cup finely chopped white onion
Instructions
- Prepare the salsa by blending tomatillos, yellow onion, garlic, jalapeño, water, cilantro, lime juice, oregano, and salt until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Marinate the steak in a mixture of orange juice, lime juice, cilantro, paprika, salt, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano for at least 15 minutes.
- Grill the marinated steak over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked to your liking. Let rest before slicing.
- Warm corn tortillas on the grill until pliable.
- Assemble tacos with sliced steak, avocado salsa, chopped green onions, and white onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (200g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
