Grilled Steak Tacos with Avocado Salsa

The sizzling sound of skirt steak hitting the grill mingles with the fresh aroma of zesty avocado salsa, creating a vibrant kitchen experience. This recipe for grilled steak tacos with avocado salsa takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delicious meal that works every time. The combination of tender steak and refreshing salsa elevates these tacos to a whole new level.

These grilled steak tacos are perfect for casual dinners, quick lunches, or festive gatherings. You can make the salsa in advance and store it in the fridge to save time when preparing your tacos.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The charred skirt steak provides a perfect smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh toppings.
• Creamy avocado salsa adds a refreshing burst of flavor that lightens up the dish.
• Simple and quick to prepare, making taco night a breeze.
• Perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings.

What You’ll Need

Gather the ingredients to make this flavorful dish.

For the Salsa Verde

• 2 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 lb 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 tbsp, plus more to taste)
• ½ tsp dry oregano
• ½ tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)

For the Grilled Steak

• 1 ripe avocado
• 16 oz 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 tbsp)
• ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro (divided in half)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp freshly-cracked black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp dry oregano
• 2 tbsp avocado oil

For Serving

• 6 green onions
• 6 corn tortillas
• ¼ cup finely chopped white onion (for serving)

Use fresh tomatillos for the best flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Flank steak or flap steak for skirt steak.
• Lime juice can replace orange juice.
• Red onion instead of white for serving.
• Fresh cilantro can be omitted if desired.

How to Make It

Create delicious grilled steak tacos with ease by following these simple steps.

Prepare the salsa verde

Combine the avocado oil, tomatillos, onion halves, garlic, and jalapeño in a saucepan. Add the water and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Blend the salsa

Simmer for about 10 minutes or until tomatillos are soft. Then, transfer the mixture to a blender and add cilantro, lime juice, oregano, and salt. Blend until smooth and taste for seasoning.

Marinate the steak

In a bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, half of the chopped cilantro, paprika, kosher salt, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and dry oregano. Add the skirt steak and coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.

Grill the steak

Preheat a grill or grill pan over high heat. Once hot, add the marinated steak and grill for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or cook to your desired doneness.

Warm the tortillas

While the steak grills, place the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds per side until warm and slightly charred.

Assemble the tacos

Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain. Place slices of steak in warm tortillas, top with avocado salsa, diced green onions, and chopped white onion.

How to Store It

Fridge: 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, steak texture changes when frozen.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure the grill is very hot before cooking the steak for optimal searing.
• Allow the steak to rest before slicing to retain the juices.
• Adjust the heat of the salsa by leaving some jalapeño seeds if you prefer extra spice.
• Serve immediately after assembling for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these tacos with a refreshing margarita.
• Serve with a side of Mexican rice or beans.
• Enjoy them during summer cookouts or taco nights with friends and family.