Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos

Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos are the perfect combination for a delightful summer dinner. These tacos showcase juicy, grilled skirt steak paired with flavorful Mexican street corn, creating a taste sensation that’s ideal for family gatherings, casual get-togethers, or simply indulging on a warm evening. The vibrant flavors and textures make this dish not just delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of seasoned skirt steak and zesty elote ensures every bite is packed with taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether as a main course or in smaller portions for a taco bar, these tacos suit any occasion.
• Grill-Friendly: Perfect for outdoor cooking enthusiasts, this recipe allows you to enjoy the joys of grilling.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: With its flavors reminiscent of Mexican street food, it’s sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Medium bowl
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: This is essential for achieving that smoky flavor and perfect char on the skirt steak and corn.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy board provides a safe surface for slicing the steak and preparing ingredients.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for both the steak and corn.

Ingredients

For the Corn Mixture

• 2 medium ears corn (husks removed)
• 2 tablespoons light mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish)
• 1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder
• 1/2 lime (juice of)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Skirt Steak Tacos

• 1 pound skirt steak (trimmed of fat)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup finely crumbled Cotija (queso fresco or feta cheese)
• 1 lime (cut into wedges for serving)

How to Make Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos

Step 1: Season the Steak

Season the skirt steak on both sides with kosher salt and cumin. This simple seasoning enhances the meat’s natural flavors.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

Heat your grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, clean and oil the grates. Grill the corn, turning occasionally until it is slightly charred, about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Elote Mixture

Transfer the grilled corn to a cutting board. Once cool enough to handle, cut the corn off the cob into a medium bowl. Mix in light mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, ancho chili powder, lime juice, and salt. Set this flavorful mixture aside.

Step 4: Cook the Skirt Steak

Increase your grill’s flame to high heat. Add the seasoned steaks to the grill and cook for about 1.5 to 2 minutes on each side for medium-rare or longer based on your desired doneness.

Step 5: Grill Tortillas

Remove the steak from the grill and set aside on a cutting board. Next, grill the tortillas until their edges become charred, approximately 30 to 60 seconds on each side.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Thinly slice the cooked skirt steak across the grain. Place slices over each tortilla, top them with elote mixture, sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese, garnish with cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos as a fun meal that brings fresh flavors right to your table!

How to Serve Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos

Serving grilled skirt steak and elote tacos is an opportunity to impress your guests or enjoy a cozy family dinner. The combination of flavors—savory steak with sweet, spicy corn—makes for a delightful experience.

Presentation Ideas

• Serve on a large platter for a communal feel, allowing everyone to build their own tacos.
• Add colorful toppings like sliced radishes or diced avocado for visual appeal.

Accompaniments

• Pair with fresh lime wedges to enhance flavor.
• Offer a selection of salsas, such as pico de gallo or spicy salsa verde, for added zest.

Garnishing Options

• Sprinkle extra cilantro on top for freshness.
• Use crumbled Cotija cheese as a savory finish.

How to Perfect Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos

To ensure your grilled skirt steak and elote tacos are perfect every time, follow these essential tips.

• Choose the right cut: Select high-quality skirt steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Marinate the steak: Letting the steak marinate enhances its taste; consider using lime juice or spices.
• Preheat the grill: A hot grill ensures nice char marks and seals in juices.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs elevate the dish’s overall flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your grilled skirt steak and elote tacos can elevate your meal even further. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the bold flavors of the tacos.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy beans add richness and are a classic Mexican side.
3. Guacamole: Freshly made guacamole provides a cool contrast to the warm tacos.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with homemade salsa make for an enjoyable appetizer.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies charred on the grill add color and healthiness to your plate.
6. Corn Salad: A refreshing salad with lime dressing echoes the elote flavors while adding brightness.
7. Cabbage Slaw: Crisp slaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the steak.
8. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa enhances all flavors while offering zesty freshness.

These sides will round out your meal beautifully!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the steak properly can lead to bland tacos. Always season your skirt steak generously with salt and cumin for maximum flavor.

• Overcooking the steak: Cooking the steak too long can result in tough meat. Aim for medium-rare by grilling for just 1.5 to 2 minutes per side.

• Neglecting the corn: If you don’t grill the corn long enough, it won’t develop that delicious charred flavor. Make sure to grill until it’s slightly charred, about 10 minutes.

• Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can ruin your taco experience. Heat them on the grill until charred at the edges for better texture and warmth.

• Not letting the steak rest: Cutting into the steak right after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let it rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep tortillas separate from the filling for best results.

Freezing Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos

• Place cooled steak and elote in freezer-safe bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cuts of meat for these tacos?

Yes! While skirt steak is ideal, you can substitute flank steak or even chicken if preferred.

What is elote?

Elote is a traditional Mexican street corn dish. It features grilled corn topped with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.

How do I customize my Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos?

Feel free to add toppings like avocado, salsa, or jalapeños for an extra kick!

Can I prepare these tacos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the elote mixture and marinate the skirt steak a day in advance for convenience.

What should I serve with Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos?

Pair them with fresh salsa, guacamole, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos are a delightful blend of flavors perfect for summer dinners. Their versatility allows you to customize them with your favorite toppings or sides. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of Mexico right at home!