Beef Tacos with Avocado Salsa – Easy 20-Minute Dinner Recipe
Introduction:
Tacos have always been a go-to meal in my household, and these Beef Tacos with Avocado Salsa are a family favorite! They combine juicy, seasoned beef with a fresh, zesty avocado salsa for the perfect balance of bold flavors. This dish is inspired by Mexican street tacos, where simple ingredients come together to create an explosion of taste. Whether you’re cooking for Taco Tuesday or just craving something delicious, these tacos are quick, easy, and absolutely satisfying.
Recipe Details:
Ingredients List:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
For the Avocado Salsa:
- 1 large avocado, diced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
- ¼ cup sour cream (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for 5 minutes, then add lime juice.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Salsa
- In a bowl, combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
- Gently mix and set aside.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
- Heat tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side, or warm them in the microwave.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
- Spoon the seasoned beef into each tortilla.
- Top with avocado salsa and crumbled cheese.
- Drizzle with sour cream, if using.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Unique Tips, Variations, and Insights:
Customization Tips:
- Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños to the salsa or a dash of hot sauce.
- Swap the protein with shredded chicken, turkey, or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
- Use hard shell tacos instead of soft tortillas for extra crunch.
Expert Advice:
- For ultra-flavorful beef, let the meat sit in the skillet for a minute without stirring to get a nice sear.
- Keep avocados fresh by adding extra lime juice if preparing the salsa ahead of time.
Cultural Context:
These tacos take inspiration from Mexican street food, where freshly made tortillas, bold spices, and simple toppings create the perfect bite. The avocado salsa adds a California-style twist with its bright, refreshing flavors.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 2 Tacos):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
FAQ Section:
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works great with the same seasoning blend.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep the beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store the avocado salsa separately and make fresh as needed.
3. What toppings go well with these tacos?
Try pickled onions, shredded lettuce, or a drizzle of chipotle mayo for extra flavor.
Conclusion:
These Beef Tacos with Avocado Salsa are an easy, flavor-packed dinner you can make in just 20 minutes! They bring the perfect mix of savory, fresh, and zesty flavors, making them great for family meals or gatherings. Try them out and let me know your favorite toppings!
