Recipe for Grilled Skirt Steak with Guacamole

Grilled skirt steak paired with homemade guacamole is a dish that captures the essence of simple, robust flavors. The heartiness of the steak marries perfectly with the freshness of the guacamole, making it an ideal meal for any season, but particularly enjoyable in the warmer months when outdoor grilling becomes a delightful option.

Yield: Serves 4
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes
Calories: Approx. 400 per serving

Ingredients:

For the Grilled Skirt Steak:

• 2 lbs skirt steak
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Guacamole:

• 3 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, seeded and diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Substitutes:

• Skirt Steak: Flank steak or hanger steak can be used as good alternatives if skirt steak is not available.
• Avocados: In a pinch, a store-bought guacamole or even a mashed green pea blend with garlic and lime can substitute.

Cooking Process:

1. Prepare the Steak:

• Pat the steak dry and rub with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature to enhance the flavor.

1. Grill the Steak:

• Preheat your grill on high. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your preference.
• Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.

1. Make the Guacamole:

• In a bowl, mash the avocados to your desired consistency.
• Mix in lime juice, onion, tomato, jalapeño (if using), and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

1. Serve:

• Serve the sliced steak with a generous scoop of fresh guacamole on the side.

Nutritional Details:

This meal is rich in protein and good fats from the avocado. It offers vitamins such as Vitamin C from lime and antioxidants from the tomatoes and garlic.

Finance and Home & Garden Tips:

• Buying in Bulk: Purchase skirt steak in bulk when on sale and freeze it, preserving freshness while managing cost.
• Growing Ingredients: Consider growing your own cilantro and jalapeños in a small garden or in containers, which can be a cost-effective and rewarding endeavor.

Pairing Suggestions:

Pair this meal with a simple side salad or grilled vegetables, and for a beverage, a cold lager or a robust red wine works wonderfully.

This dish not only pleases the palate but also offers a lesson in culinary simplicity and smart shopping, making it a perfect addition to any meal planner looking for flavor and value.