Steak Tacos with Corn Salsa: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Steak tacos with corn salsa: prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy steak, perfectly seasoned and nestled in a warm tortilla, topped with a vibrant and refreshing corn salsa that bursts with flavor. Are you drooling yet?

Tacos, a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, have a rich history dating back centuries. Originally a simple and portable meal for laborers, tacos have evolved into a globally beloved dish, celebrated for their versatility and deliciousness. The beauty of a taco lies in its endless possibilities – you can fill it with virtually anything your heart desires!

What makes steak tacos with corn salsa so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of textures and flavors. The savory, melt-in-your-mouth steak provides a satisfying richness, while the sweet and tangy corn salsa adds a delightful crunch and a burst of freshness. The combination is simply divine! Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing option for your next gathering. Get ready to experience taco perfection!

Ingredients:

• For the Steak:
• 1.5 lbs Flank Steak, skirt steak, or sirloin steak
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Chili Powder
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1 tsp Cumin
• 1/2 tsp Oregano, dried
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• For the Corn Salsa:
• 2 ears of Corn, kernels removed (about 2 cups)
• 1/2 Red Onion, finely diced
• 1 Jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, finely diced
• 1/2 cup Cilantro, chopped
• 2 Limes, juiced
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• For the Tacos:
• 12 Corn Tortillas (or flour tortillas, if preferred)
• Optional Toppings: Avocado slices, crumbled cotija cheese, sour cream, hot sauce

Preparing the Steak:

1. Marinate the Steak: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the steak in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful the steak will be!
2. Prepare for Cooking: Remove the steak from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. This will help it cook more evenly. Pat the steak dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear.

Cooking the Steak:

1. Heat the Grill or Pan: Preheat your grill to high heat. Alternatively, you can use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan on the stovetop over high heat. Make sure the grill or pan is screaming hot before adding the steak. A hot surface is key to achieving a beautiful sear.
2. Sear the Steak: Place the steak on the hot grill or in the hot pan. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steak reaches your preferred internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, aim for 135-145°F (57-63°C). For medium-well, aim for 145-155°F (63-68°C). Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat.
3. Rest the Steak: Remove the steak from the grill or pan and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Don’t skip this step! It’s essential for a juicy steak.
4. Slice the Steak: After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This is important for tenderness, as it shortens the muscle fibers. Slicing with the grain will result in a chewier steak.

Preparing the Corn Salsa:

1. Grill or Sauté the Corn: There are two ways to cook the corn for the salsa. You can grill the corn on the cob until lightly charred, then cut the kernels off. This adds a smoky flavor. Alternatively, you can sauté the corn kernels in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat until they are tender and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. I personally prefer grilling for that extra smoky flavor!
2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the grilled or sautéed corn kernels, finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), finely diced red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro.
3. Dress the Salsa: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more lime juice for extra tang, or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
4. Chill (Optional): For best flavor, cover the corn salsa and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. However, it’s also delicious served immediately.

Assembling the Tacos:

1. Warm the Tortillas: Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, until they are pliable. You can also warm them in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel, or in the oven wrapped in foil. Warming the tortillas makes them more flexible and less likely to tear.
2. Assemble the Tacos: Fill each warm tortilla with sliced steak and a generous spoonful of corn salsa.
3. Add Toppings (Optional): Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as avocado slices, crumbled cotija cheese, sour cream, or hot sauce. I love adding a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a creamy and salty finish!
4. Serve Immediately: Serve the steak tacos immediately and enjoy! These are best enjoyed fresh, while the steak is still warm and the salsa is vibrant.

Tips and Variations:

• Steak Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the heat.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño in the corn salsa to your liking. If you prefer a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before mincing it.
• Tortilla Options: While corn tortillas are traditional for tacos, you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Marinate the mushrooms in the same marinade as the steak.
• Make Ahead: The corn salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The steak can also be marinated ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these steak tacos with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete meal.
• Different Cuts of Steak: While flank steak, skirt steak, and sirloin steak are all great options for tacos, you can also use other cuts of steak, such as ribeye or New York strip. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Add a Creamy Sauce: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a creamy sauce to your tacos. A chipotle crema or a cilantro-lime crema would be delicious. To make a simple chipotle crema, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (minced), lime juice, and salt in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
• Grilled Pineapple Salsa: For a sweeter and tangier salsa, try adding grilled pineapple to the corn salsa. Grill pineapple slices until lightly charred, then dice them and add them to the salsa.
• Pickled Onions: Pickled red onions add a bright and tangy flavor to the tacos. You can easily make your own pickled red onions by combining thinly sliced red onions with vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another taco recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The juicy, perfectly seared steak, paired with the sweet and tangy corn salsa, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. Seriously, these steak tacos with corn salsa are a game-changer for taco night, and I’m confident they’ll become a regular feature on your menu. But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s all about the balance. The richness of the steak is beautifully offset by the vibrant freshness of the corn salsa. The slight char on the steak adds a smoky depth, while the lime juice in the salsa provides a zesty kick. It’s a culinary dance that’s both satisfying and exciting. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! You don’t need to be a professional chef to whip up these delicious tacos. The instructions are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available. Beyond the incredible flavor, these tacos are incredibly versatile. Looking for serving suggestions? I love serving them with a side of black beans and rice for a complete and satisfying meal. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of chipotle mayo adds an extra layer of richness. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese for a salty, cheesy finish. Want to switch things up? Consider these variations: * Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the steak marinade or a finely chopped jalapeño to the corn salsa for an extra kick. * Go vegetarian: Substitute the steak with grilled halloumi cheese or portobello mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option. * Different salsa: Experiment with different types of salsa! A mango salsa or a pineapple salsa would also pair beautifully with the steak. * Tortilla time: While I prefer corn tortillas for their authentic flavor, feel free to use flour tortillas if that’s what you prefer. You can even grill the tortillas for a slightly charred and smoky flavor. I truly believe that these steak tacos with corn salsa are a winner. They’re perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a weekend barbecue, or even a festive Cinco de Mayo celebration. They’re guaranteed to impress your family and friends, and they’re so easy to make that you’ll be able to enjoy the party without spending all day in the kitchen. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to experience taco perfection. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? Did you add any special toppings? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments below! I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious steak tacos with corn salsa!

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