Name: Skirt Steak Tacos with Cilantro and Lime
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice; 2 tablespoons canola oil, divided; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 ½ pounds skirt steak, cut into ½-inch pieces; 12 mini flour tortillas, warmed; ¾ cup diced red onion; ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves; 1 lime, cut into wedges

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These skirt steak tacos are a flavorful and zesty treat, combining tender marinated skirt steak with fresh, aromatic toppings like cilantro, lime, and red onion. The savory marinade with reduced sodium soy sauce, lime juice, and a blend of spices adds depth to the steak, while the mini flour tortillas serve as the perfect base. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or preparing a quick weeknight meal, these tacos are sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Skirt steak is known for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked properly, and this recipe brings out the best of it. The marinade adds just the right amount of savory, tangy, and spicy notes that complement the beef perfectly. Paired with fresh toppings like cilantro, lime, and red onion, these tacos are a fantastic combination of juicy meat, refreshing flavors, and satisfying texture. Quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, these tacos are a must-try for anyone who loves Mexican-inspired cuisine.

Skirt Steak Tacos with Cilantro and Lime

Ingredients

2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
2 tablespoons canola oil, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 ½ pounds skirt steak, cut into ½-inch pieces
12 mini flour tortillas, warmed
¾ cup diced red onion
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1 lime, cut into wedges

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade:

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, lime juice, 1 tablespoon canola oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and dried oregano. This mixture will serve as the marinade for the skirt steak.

2. Marinate the Skirt Steak:

Place the skirt steak pieces in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure all the pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Cook the Skirt Steak:

Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated skirt steak pieces and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the steak is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Skirt steak cooks quickly, so be mindful not to overcook it.

4. Assemble the Tacos:

While the steak is cooking, warm the mini flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Once the steak is done, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it further into bite-sized pieces.

5. Build the Tacos:

To assemble, place the cooked skirt steak pieces on the warm tortillas. Top with diced red onion, freshly chopped cilantro leaves, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with extra lime wedges on the side for added freshness.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the tacos immediately, garnished with additional cilantro, lime, and red onion if desired. These tacos pair well with a variety of sides like rice, beans, or a simple green salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marination time)
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (excluding marination)

Variations

Add Heat: If you like spicy food, top the tacos with jalapeño slices or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the skirt steak for grilled portobello mushrooms or a hearty bean mixture for a vegetarian version of these tacos.
Extra Toppings: Add sliced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco for even more flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can store the tortillas separately to keep them fresh.
Reheating: Reheat the steak on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If reheating tortillas, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds to keep them soft.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of steak?

While skirt steak is ideal for tacos due to its tenderness and flavor, flank steak or sirloin can be used as substitutes if necessary. Just ensure they are thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness.

2. Can I prepare the steak ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the steak up to 2 hours in advance, and you can even cook the steak a day before and refrigerate it. Just reheat the steak when ready to assemble the tacos.

3. Can I make these tacos gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas.

4. How do I ensure my skirt steak stays tender?

Skirt steak cooks quickly, so be sure not to overcook it. It’s best cooked medium-rare to medium. Also, slice it against the grain to ensure tenderness.

5. Can I grill the skirt steak instead of using a skillet?

Yes, you can grill the skirt steak over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, making sure to follow the same marination and resting process before slicing.

6. Can I make these tacos in advance?

While it’s best to assemble the tacos fresh, you can prepare the steak and toppings ahead of time and then quickly assemble when ready to serve.

7. How do I store the tortillas?

Store unused tortillas in a sealed bag or container at room temperature. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them, but they are best served fresh.

8. What are some side dishes that pair well with these tacos?

This taco recipe pairs wonderfully with Mexican rice, black beans, grilled vegetables, or a side salad with lime vinaigrette.

9. Can I add cheese to the tacos?

Absolutely! Shredded cheese such as cotija, cheddar, or Monterey Jack can add a delicious creamy element to the tacos.

10. How can I adjust the marinade if I want less salt?

If you prefer a less salty marinade, you can reduce the amount of soy sauce and replace it with a little more lime juice or water.

Conclusion

These skirt steak tacos with cilantro and lime are a perfect blend of bold, savory flavors and fresh, zesty toppings. With a simple marinade that enhances the natural flavor of the steak and easy-to-find ingredients, these tacos are quick, flavorful, and satisfying. They’re ideal for a casual weeknight dinner, a weekend BBQ, or a taco night with friends. Try them today, and enjoy the delicious combination of juicy steak, tangy lime, and fresh cilantro!