Description
These Surf and Turf Tacos combine the best of both worlds juicy, flavorful steak and succulent shrimp, all wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with fresh, vibrant garnishes. A zesty citrus marinade enhances both proteins, while toppings like avocado crema, cotija cheese, and pickled onions create the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Perfect for taco night or a special gathering!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Steak and Seafood:
- 1 lb ribeye, skirt steak, or flank steak
- ½ lb large shrimp or sea scallops, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup pickled red onions
- ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Optional Toppings:
- Mango salsa
- Pico de gallo
- Chipotle crema
- Jalapeño slices
Instructions
- Marinate the Proteins – In a bowl, mix lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, honey, salt, and pepper. Coat the steak and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 8 hours for deeper flavor). Marinate shrimp or scallops for only 15 minutes.
- Cook the Steak – Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over high heat. Cook steak for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Cook the Seafood – In the same skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side (or scallops for 2–3 minutes per side) until golden and opaque.
- Warm the Tortillas – Heat tortillas over an open flame or dry skillet until soft and slightly charred.
- Assemble the Tacos – Layer steak slices and seafood onto each tortilla. Top with avocado, pickled onions, cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro.
- Serve – Drizzle with chipotle crema or your favorite salsa, and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure steak reaches 130–135°F for medium-rare.
- Pat proteins dry before cooking for a perfect sear.
- Toasting tortillas over an open flame adds a smoky depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling/Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: Surf and turf tacos