Name: Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 medium ears of 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; 1 pound skirt steak (trimmed of fat); 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 8 corn tortillas corn tortillas; 1/2 cup finely crumbled Cotija (queso fresco or feta cheese); 1 lime cut into wedges for serving

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of smoky, grilled flavors and the bright crunch of fresh ingredients, which is why Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos holds a special place in my heart. Picture a warm summer evening, the sun setting just right, and the grill sizzling with marinated skirt steak and fresh corn. This dish brings people together, whether for a casual family dinner or a lively gathering with friends. As the aroma wafts through the air, you can’t help but feel excited about the meal ahead.

Every bite of these tacos bursts with flavors, combining the juicy skirt steak with sweet, charred corn, zesty lime, and creamy mayonnaise. It’s a sensational taste experience that captures the essence of summer. I remember the first time I made these tacos; it was an impromptu barbecue, and everyone couldn’t stop raving about them. The joy on their faces as they took their first bites was priceless, and it’s moments like those that make this recipe a go-to in my kitchen.

The best part? You don’t need any special skills to create this masterpiece. With just a few fresh ingredients and a grill, you can whip up a meal that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant. So grab your apron, fire up that grill, and let’s dive into the world of Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos. You won’t regret it!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
480 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
25 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Grater

Why This Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos Hits Different

Bold Flavors

One of the reasons I absolutely love Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos is the incredible flavor profile. The marinade of salt, cumin, and lime infuses the steak with a delightful taste, while the charred corn adds a sweet crunch. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that dance together on your palate.

Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is key to making these tacos stand out. The combination of grilled corn, cilantro, and zesty lime elevates the dish and adds a vibrant touch. You can truly taste the difference when you use quality produce. Freshness not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish more visually appealing.

Quick and Easy

In just a few simple steps, you can have these tacos ready to serve. The beauty of Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos lies in its simplicity. With a prep time of only 15 minutes and cook time of approximately 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Perfect for Summer

Nothing says summer quite like a barbecue. These tacos are ideal for outdoor gatherings, family cookouts, or even a simple dinner on the patio. The smoky flavors combined with fresh ingredients make them a refreshing choice when the weather heats up.

Customizable

What I love about these tacos is how customizable they are. You can adjust the toppings to suit your taste—add more cilantro for freshness or a drizzle of hot sauce if you want a kick. You could even swap the Cotija cheese for a different cheese if you prefer. The possibilities are endless!

Great for Sharing

Finally, Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos are meant to be shared. They’re perfect for gatherings and parties, allowing everyone to build their own tacos exactly how they like them. Seeing everyone enjoying the same meal creates a wonderful sense of community.

Recipe Ingredients for Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos

When it comes to crafting the perfect Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos, the ingredients you choose play a crucial role in achieving that delightful flavor. Each component not only complements the others but also adds its own unique touch to the dish. The sweet, smoky corn, the savory skirt steak, and the creamy elements work together beautifully to create a taco experience that’s both satisfying and delicious.

2 medium ears of corn, husks removed: Freshly grilled to perfection, these add a sweet crunch to your tacos.
2 tablespoons light mayonnaise: This creamy base enhances the flavor of the corn and adds a rich texture.
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of flavor and a vibrant green color.
1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder: A hint of smokiness and spice that elevates the flavor profile.
1/2 lime, juice of: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish, making it refreshing.
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
1 pound skirt steak, trimmed of fat: The star of the show, this cut is tender and perfect for grilling.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: For seasoning the steak before grilling.
1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the steak.
8 corn tortillas: These are the perfect vehicle for all the delicious fillings.
1/2 cup finely crumbled Cotija, queso fresco or feta cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and balances the flavors.
1 lime, cut into wedges for serving: Fresh lime wedges are essential for squeezing over the finished tacos.

Making Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos

Creating Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos is a delightful process that brings together a medley of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Start by seasoning the steaks on both sides with kosher salt and cumin. Make sure to rub the seasoning in well to enhance the flavor. This will create a savory crust when grilled.
Next, heat your grill over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks.
Now it’s time to grill the corn. Place the ears of corn on the grill, turning occasionally until they are slightly charred, about 10 minutes. The grilling process brings out the natural sweetness of the corn.
Once the corn is grilled, transfer it to a cutting board. Allow it to cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a medium bowl.
In the bowl with the cut corn, mix in the light mayonnaise, cilantro, ancho chili powder, lime juice, and kosher salt. Stir until well combined and set aside. This mixture is the elote that will top your tacos.
Next, increase the flame on the grill to high. Place the seasoned steaks on the grill and cook for about 1 and a half to 2 minutes on each side for medium rare. Adjust the cooking time to achieve your desired doneness.
Once cooked to your liking, set the steaks aside on a cutting board to rest. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time you slice.
While the steaks rest, grill the corn tortillas until the edges become charred, about 30 to 60 seconds on each side. This step adds a nice smoky flavor and warms them up.
Now it’s time to slice the rested steak thinly across the grain. This technique helps to keep the meat tender and easy to chew.
To assemble your tacos, place slices of the grilled steak over the warm corn tortillas. Top generously with the elote mixture, sprinkle with Cotija cheese, and garnish with additional cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.

Enjoy Your Tacos!

Now that your Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos are ready, gather your family or friends and dig in! The combination of flavors is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for more.

Things Worth Knowing

Resting your steak: Allowing the cooked steak to rest ensures it stays juicy. This is crucial for retaining moisture.
Grill temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated adequately for a good sear. A hot grill creates those lovely grill marks.
Freshness matters: Use the freshest ingredients available for the best flavor. Fresh corn, herbs, and a good cut of steak can elevate the dish.
Customize toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado or a spicy salsa to enhance the flavor of your tacos.

Helpful Notes about Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos

To ensure your experience with Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos is seamless, here are some helpful tips:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the steak.
Freezing: While it’s best to enjoy these tacos fresh, you can freeze the grilled steak for up to a month. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Pairing: These tacos are perfect with a side of Mexican rice or a refreshing corn salad. They make for a complete meal!
Variations: Consider swapping the steak for grilled chicken or shrimp for a different flavor experience.
Serving suggestion: Serve the tacos with a side of pico de gallo or a spicy salsa for an added kick.

Perfect Matches for Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos

When it comes to serving Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some fantastic suggestions:

Mexican Rice: A flavorful side of Mexican rice complements the tacos perfectly. Its seasoned grains soak up the delicious taco juices.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add a comforting element to your plate, making for a hearty meal.
Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad with lime and herbs pairs wonderfully, echoing the fresh corn in the tacos.
Guacamole: A scoop of fresh guacamole can enhance the creaminess of the tacos, balancing flavors beautifully.
Chips and Salsa: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips and a zesty salsa as an appetizer. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Seasonal Fruits: Fresh fruits like watermelon or mango served on the side can provide a sweet contrast to the savory tacos.
Occasions: These tacos are perfect for summer barbecues, casual family dinners, or festive gatherings. They bring a fun, lively vibe to any occasion.

FAQ

For Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos, skirt steak is the best choice due to its tenderness and flavor. It’s ideal for quick grilling, which helps to keep it juicy. However, if you want to try something different, flank steak or even grilled chicken could work well. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is tender and flavorful.

While Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some components ahead. For instance, you can grill the steak and corn in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them gently before serving. The elote mixture can also be prepared ahead of time and stored until you’re ready to assemble the tacos.

The beauty of Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos is in their versatility. Aside from the grilled corn topping, consider adding fresh avocado, pico de gallo, or even pickled onions for an extra punch of flavor. A drizzle of spicy salsa or a sprinkle of crumbled cheese can elevate the taste and make your tacos even more delightful!

Absolutely! You can easily make a vegetarian version of Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos by replacing the steak with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or portobello mushrooms. These alternatives provide a hearty texture and flavor. You can still enjoy the delicious elote mixture on top, making it a satisfying option for vegetarian guests.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Grilled Skirt Steak and Elote Tacos embody the vibrant flavors of summer in every bite. This dish is perfect for gatherings, bringing friends and family together over a delicious meal. I encourage you to try making these tacos; the combination of grilled steak and fresh ingredients is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process and share the joy of good food with those you love!