If you love bold, fresh flavors wrapped up in a warm tortilla, then this Grilled Flank Steak Tacos with Cilantro and Avocado Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Juicy, perfectly seasoned flank steak meets creamy avocado and zesty cilantro for a taco experience that’s vibrant, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make. With just a handful of essential ingredients, this dish delivers big on color, texture, and flavor in every bite—trust me, once you try it, you’ll be craving these tacos all week long!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role: from the smoky spices that coat the steak, to the refreshing cilantro and creamy avocado that bring brightness and balance. These few items combine to create a perfectly harmonious plate that’s easy to assemble yet feels special.
- Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky sweetness that highlights the grilled flavor of the steak.
- Ground Cumin: Brings warmth and earthiness, essential for that authentic taco flavor.
- Garlic Powder: Infuses a gentle garlicky aroma without overpowering the other spices.
- Chili Powder: Introduces a mild kick for depth and complexity.
- Sea Salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps tenderize the meat when used in divided amounts.
- Dried Oregano: Offers herbaceous notes that brighten the meat’s seasoning.
- Onion Powder: Adds a subtle savory sweetness to the spice mix.
- Ground Black Pepper: For its distinctive sharp heat and to balance the richness of the steak.
- Flank Steak: A lean, flavorful cut that grills beautifully and slices perfectly for tacos.
- Olive Oil: Keeps the steak juicy and helps the seasoning stick while also giving the toppings a light coating.
- Small Red Onion: Finely diced for a mild crunch and a pop of rich color.
- Chopped Cilantro: Brightens each bite with fresh, citrusy notes.
- Ripe Avocado: Adds creamy texture and coolness to balance the smoky, spicy steak.
- Lime Juice: Brings a tangy brightness that lifts all the flavors together.
- Small Flour Tortillas: The perfect soft but sturdy base, warm and ready to hold all those delicious ingredients.
- Optional Toppings: Crumbled queso fresco, sliced jalapeños, or extra lime juice to personalize each taco just the way you like it.
How to Make Grilled Flank Steak Tacos with Cilantro and Avocado Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Grill
Start by heating your grill or grill pan to medium high heat, around 375 degrees F. This ensures a perfect sear that locks in the steak’s juices while developing those irresistible grill marks we all love.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine paprika, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, half of the sea salt, oregano, onion powder, and black pepper. This spice blend is the heart of the Grilled Flank Steak Tacos with Cilantro and Avocado Recipe, delivering rich, smoky, and earthy flavors to the steak.
Step 3: Season the Steak
Brush both sides of the flank steak with a tablespoon of olive oil to keep it moist while grilling. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously on both sides, then gently pat it in so all those delicious spices hug the meat tightly.
Step 4: Grill the Steak
Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side. Aim for medium doneness, meaning the internal temperature registers between 135 and 145 degrees F. This ensures a juicy, flavorful steak that’s perfect for slicing thin and tender.
Step 5: Rest the Steak
Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing every bite stays moist and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Step 6: Prepare the Avocado and Cilantro Topping
While the steak rests, toss together the remaining salt, a tablespoon of olive oil, the finely diced red onion, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and lime juice in a bowl. This topping adds fresh, creamy, and tangy notes that perfectly complement the smoky steak.
Step 7: Warm the Tortillas
Heat your flour tortillas on the grill, a stovetop burner, or in a hot pan until they become warm and slightly crispy at the edges. Warm tortillas are essential to scoop up all the filling effortlessly without tearing.
Step 8: Slice the Steak
Cut the rested flank steak into 1/4-inch strips against the grain for maximum tenderness. If the strips seem too thick for the tortillas, simply cut them in half—perfect bite-sized pieces make for easy eating.
Step 9: Assemble and Serve
Layer the steak strips on the warmed tortillas, then top generously with the avocado and cilantro mixture. If you like, add crumbled queso fresco, sliced jalapeños, or an extra squeeze of lime for that final burst of flavor. Serve these tacos immediately for the best taste and texture.
How to Serve Grilled Flank Steak Tacos with Cilantro and Avocado Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like crumbled queso fresco provide a creamy, salty contrast to the smoky steak, while sliced jalapeños add a spicy crunch. A light drizzle of extra lime juice over the top brightens every bite, making the dish feel fresh and lively.
Side Dishes
These tacos pair wonderfully with simple sides like Mexican street corn, a crisp cabbage slaw, or a cool black bean salad. These sides add texture and a colorful variety that rounds out the meal beautifully without overpowering the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on presentation, serve these tacos on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of garnishes and toppings for everyone to customize their own. You can even serve them with lime wedges and hot sauce on the side, transforming a casual meal into a festive taco night experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover steak strips and avocado topping can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping them apart helps retain the avocado’s freshness and prevents the tortillas from getting soggy.
Freezing
While fresh is best, you can freeze cooked, sliced flank steak for up to 3 months. Store it in a freezer-safe container or bag without the avocado topping, which should be prepared fresh due to its delicacy.
Reheating
Reheat steak strips gently in a hot skillet over medium heat until warmed through, avoiding overcooking to keep them tender. Warm tortillas separately, and add the avocado topping fresh after reheating for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Flank steak is ideal because of its flavor and texture, but skirt steak or hanger steak can also work well. Just be sure to slice thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the flour tortillas for corn tortillas or your favorite gluten-free alternative to keep the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diners.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use an instant-read thermometer aiming for 135 to 145 degrees F for medium doneness, resulting in juicy, flavorful meat perfect for tacos.
Can I prepare the toppings in advance?
Yes, but add the avocado and lime juice mixture just before serving to keep the avocado from browning and maintain its fresh flavor.
What are some good beverage pairings?
A cold Mexican lager, margarita, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the smoky, tangy flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold, fresh flavors yet comes together quickly and easily, you’ve got to try this Grilled Flank Steak Tacos with Cilantro and Avocado Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a celebration on a plate, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends. Give it a go—you’ll love the smoky steak, vibrant toppings, and the happy smiles around your table.
