Lime & Cilantro Steak Tacos

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Juicy, smoky, and bursting with zesty flavor, these Lime & Cilantro Steak Tacos are the ultimate weeknight dinner or backyard cookout favorite. The marinated steak is seared to perfection, wrapped in warm tortillas, and topped with a fresh cilantro-onion mix for that irresistible street-taco authenticity. Every bite is bold, refreshing, and downright satisfying.

This dish captures the essence of Mexican street food, with simple ingredients that come together to create something truly crave-worthy. Whether you’re planning Taco Tuesday or just need a fast, flavor-packed dinner, these tacos will win over hearts (and stomachs) fast.

---

Why You’ll Love This Lime & Cilantro Steak Tacos Recipe

This recipe hits all the right notes: it’s quick to prepare, uses affordable ingredients, and has that fresh, zesty taste thanks to the lime and cilantro. The seared steak brings smoky, charred flavor to the table, while the chopped onion and cilantro topping gives it that classic taco truck finish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, these tacos are the kind of meal that feel like a treat without the extra effort.

---

What Kind of Steak Should I Use for Tacos?

Skirt steak or flank steak are your best choices for this recipe. They soak up marinades beautifully and become incredibly tender when sliced thin against the grain after grilling or pan-searing. If you’re looking for something leaner, sirloin is another great option. Just be sure not to overcook the steak—you want that juicy bite in every taco.

---

Ingredients for the Lime & Cilantro Steak Tacos

To build the bold flavor layers in these tacos, you only need a handful of fresh and powerful ingredients:

• Skirt or Flank Steak – These cuts are ideal for tacos thanks to their rich beefy flavor and ability to soak up the marinade.
• Fresh Lime Juice – Adds brightness and tenderizes the steak with a citrusy punch.
• Garlic Cloves – Infuses the marinade with a robust, savory base.
• Chopped Cilantro – Brings the fresh herbal kick that defines this taco.
• Chopped White Onion – Adds a bit of crunch and sharp contrast to the savory meat.
• Olive Oil – Helps distribute the marinade evenly and adds a subtle richness.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.
• Corn Tortillas – Slightly charred for that irresistible smoky aroma.
• Optional: Crushed Red Pepper or Jalapeño – For those who like an extra kick of heat.

---

How To Make the Lime & Cilantro Steak Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Combine lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the steak and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill or Skillet

Preheat your grill or a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Place the steak on the hot grill or skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until your desired doneness. Let the meat rest for 5 minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

While the steak rests, warm the tortillas directly over a flame or in a hot pan until they develop slight char marks and become pliable.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Fill each tortilla with sliced steak, then top with chopped onion and fresh cilantro. Add a squeeze of lime, and crushed red pepper or jalapeños if desired.

---

How to Serve and Store These Tacos

These Lime & Cilantro Steak Tacos are best served fresh off the grill, with warm tortillas and a generous heap of toppings. Perfect for a casual dinner, party platter, or taco night buffet. This recipe feeds about 4 people generously—expect 2 to 3 tacos per person depending on tortilla size.

To store leftovers, keep the steak, toppings, and tortillas in separate airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat the steak in a skillet to preserve the seared edges, and warm tortillas just before serving.

---

What to Serve With Lime & Cilantro Steak Tacos?

Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Grilled corn slathered with mayo, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder makes a creamy and tangy side that pairs beautifully with steak.

Cilantro Lime Rice

A fresh and zesty rice side that’s light yet flavorful, complementing the citrus notes in the tacos.

Black Bean Salad

Cool and colorful, this salad adds a hearty, protein-packed option with a mild crunch.

Guacamole & Chips

No taco night is complete without creamy guac and crispy tortilla chips.

Mango Salsa

A sweet-spicy topping or side that brightens every bite with tropical flavor.

Pickled Red Onions

Adds acidity and color contrast to your tacos, especially if you’re looking for something tangy.

Mexican Beer or Margarita

A crisp lager or a citrusy margarita brings the full fiesta vibe.

Churros or Tres Leches Cake

If you’re looking for dessert, either of these Mexican classics would close out the meal perfectly.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While skirt and flank steak are traditional, sirloin or ribeye can also work. Just be sure to slice them thinly and marinate well for maximum flavor.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the steak a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Cooked steak can also be stored for up to 3 days. Assemble tacos just before serving to keep textures fresh.

3. Are corn or flour tortillas better for this?
Corn tortillas are traditional and offer a slightly nutty flavor and great texture when charred. Flour tortillas are softer and can hold more filling. Use what you love!

4. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely. Add crushed red pepper, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to bring the heat.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use corn tortillas and double-check your spices and condiments, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra spicy? Add some cheese? Try pickled onions?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Find more flavor-packed ideas on my Pinterest here: Life With Livia Recipes

---

Conclusion

Lime & Cilantro Steak Tacos bring bold, fresh flavors to your table with very little effort. The zesty marinade, juicy steak, and crunchy toppings make them a go-to for quick weeknight meals or casual get-togethers. With easy prep and unforgettable taste, these tacos might just become your new favorite.

---

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?