Print

Steak Lettuce Wrap Tacos

These Steak Lettuce Wrap Tacos with Chimichurri Sauce are a vibrant and healthy twist on traditional tacos. Enjoy tender, marinated steak wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves, topped with a zesty chimichurri sauce and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Steak:
  • 1 pound flank steak (or skirt steak)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Chimichurri Sauce:
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Tacos:
  • 1 head of butter lettuce (or romaine lettuce), leaves separated and washed
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Start by preparing the flank steak. Rub it with olive oil and season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes; if you have more time, up to 1 hour is even better.
  2. While the steak marinates, make the chimichurri sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well and set aside for the flavors to meld.
  3. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated flank steak. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare. Look for a nice crust to form on the outside; this adds great texture.
  4. Remove the steak from the heat and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps retain the juices for a tender bite.
  5. While the steak is resting, prepare your taco toppings. Dice the tomato, avocado, and finely chop the red onion. Set aside.
  6. Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips. This technique helps to maximize tenderness.
  7. Now it’s time to assemble your tacos! Take a butter lettuce leaf, add a few slices of steak, and top with diced tomato, avocado, red onion, and crumbled feta if using. Drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce.
  8. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zest. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos just before eating for a bright finish!

Nutrition

Keywords: One common mistake is overcooking the steak. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 130°F will give you perfect medium-rare. Remember, the steak will continue to cook slightly while resting. Use a cast iron skillet for a beautiful sear. When making chimichurri, adjust the oil and vinegar ratio to your taste.