Tuesdays Are for Tacos (and Skirt Steak)

Written By Lindsey Lovett, RD

Have you ever tried skirt steak? It might not get as much attention as ribeye or filet, but here at Yampa Valley Ranch, it’s one of our absolute favorites! Think of it as the budget-friendly alternative to flank steak—just as tasty, but easier on the wallet. With a little extra marbling, skirt steak cooks up tender, juicy, and perfect for tacos.

Remember from our last blog: there’s no need to fear extra marbling when the beef is regeneratively managed, grass-fed, and finished as it provides a healthier fat profile with 4x the omega-3 fatty acids (unsaturated fats).

Both skirt and flank steaks come from hardworking muscles of the cow, which makes them bold and full of flavor. The key is knowing how to handle them. To keep skirt steak tender, it’s all about marinating and slicing thinly against the grain. This recipe will walk you through the tips and tricks that turn a humble cut into melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness.

To top it all off, we’re featuring YVR sales and marketing manager Ali Hall’s supreme guacamole recipe. Her secret twist? A sprinkle of feta cheese! It’s the perfect creamy, tangy topping to finish off your skirt steak tacos.

Skirt Steak Tacos ft. Ali’s Supreme Guacamole

Skirt Steak Ingredients

  • 1 lb skirt steak

  • ¼ cup olive oil

  • Juice of 2 limes (or ¼ cup)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tsp chili powder

  • 2 tsp cumin

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro 

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Ali’s Guacamole Ingredients

  • 2 Avocados cubed

  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes quartered

  • ¼ cup feta cheese

  • ¼ cup onion minced

  • 1 tsp sea salt

  • ¼ cup cilantro chopped 

  • ½ lime juiced 

Taco Ingredients

  • Warm tortillas (flour or corn, your choice)

  • Additional taco toppings of your choosing (examples: lettuce, shredded cheese, peppers, onions) 

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Steak

    In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine all the ingredients together with the skirt steak. Make sure the steak is well coated. Refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour, but we recommend up to 8 hours for maximum flavor. 

  2. Assemble guacamole

    In a bowl combine all guacamole ingredients and stir together.

  3. Cook the Steak

    Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove steak from the marinade and pat dry. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side (skirt steak cooks quickly!). We recommend cooking rare for the most tender outcome. 

  4. Let the Steak Rest

    Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes.

  5. Slice The Steak

    Thinly slice the skirt steak against the grain to keep it tender.

  6. Assemble the Tacos

    Layer steak strips on warm tortillas. Top with guacamole and other toppings of your choosing.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t skip the rest time! Letting the steak rest before slicing ensures juiciness.

  • Always cut against the grain—this shortens the muscle fibers and makes the meat more tender. 

  • Always choose a marinate with citrus to help tenderize the meat before cooking. 

  • Don’t over cook! Cook rare to medium rare.

Steak tacos don’t have to be complicated (or expensive). By choosing skirt steak, you can enjoy the satisfying, budget friendly dinner to serve your friends or family. Tag @YampaValleyRanch with your next taco Tuesday!

Lindsey Lovett, RD
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