Grilled Skirt Steak with Grated Tomato Salsa

Smoky, juicy grilled steak meets the cool, fresh brightness of grated tomato salsa in this simple yet sensational dish. With every bite, you get tender, well-charred beef balanced by the tang of sun-ripened tomatoes, a splash of olive oil, and a whisper of garlic. It’s bold, rustic, and summery — the kind of recipe that makes you want to gather friends around the grill and soak in the moment.

Behind the Recipe

This one takes me back to summer nights on the patio, the scent of grilled meat in the air, and that satisfying sizzle when steak hits the heat. Skirt steak has always been one of my favorite cuts — it’s flavorful, quick to cook, and made for sharing. The idea to pair it with grated tomato salsa came from a trip to Spain, where I saw locals grating ripe tomatoes over bread with olive oil and garlic. I thought, why not use that same concept to brighten up grilled steak? And just like that, this dish was born.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Skirt steak is a cut of beef from the diaphragm muscle, known for its intense beefy flavor and long, fibrous grain. It’s often used in Mexican and Latin American cuisines, especially in dishes like fajitas and carne asada. Grated tomato, or “pan con tomate,” is a traditional Spanish preparation where fresh tomatoes are grated raw, often served on bread with garlic and olive oil. Combining these two elements — the boldness of grilled steak and the lightness of tomato salsa — creates a dish that’s both hearty and fresh, perfect for warm weather dining.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Skirt Steak with Grated Tomato Salsa

Versatile: Serve it with rice, potatoes, crusty bread, or tuck it into tacos.
Budget-Friendly: Skirt steak is affordable and packed with flavor.
Quick and Easy: The whole dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
Customizable: Add herbs, spice, or cheese to the salsa for your own twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: A showstopper at cookouts or casual dinners.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate the steak ahead of time and prep the salsa in advance.
Great for Leftovers: Use in sandwiches, wraps, or grain bowls the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

For a perfectly grilled skirt steak with juicy flavor and tender texture, keep these tips in mind:

• Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes to boost flavor and tenderness.
• Always grill skirt steak over high heat for a quick sear and juicy interior.
• Let the steak rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Slice against the grain — it makes all the difference in tenderness.
• Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best tasting salsa.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

You only need a few tools to bring this dish to life:

• Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for achieving that smoky char.
• Box Grater: For making fresh tomato salsa.
• Sharp Knife: To slice the steak cleanly and easily.
• Mixing Bowl: To hold and season your salsa.
• Cutting Board: For prepping and slicing the steak.

Ingredients in Grilled Skirt Steak with Grated Tomato Salsa

This dish is all about the harmony between simple, quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Skirt Steak: 1 ½ pounds A flavorful cut that grills quickly and evenly.
2. Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons (divided) Adds richness and helps with grilling and dressing.
3. Garlic Cloves: 2, minced Brings depth and savory notes to the salsa.
4. Ripe Tomatoes: 4 medium, grated The base of the salsa — juicy and bright.
5. Red Wine Vinegar: 1 tablespoon Adds a tangy kick to balance the richness.
6. Salt: 1 teaspoon (plus more to taste) Brings out all the flavors.
7. Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon Adds a mild kick and earthy flavor.
8. Fresh Parsley or Basil: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional) For garnish and added freshness.
9. Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (optional) Enhances brightness in the salsa.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit what you have:

Skirt Steak: Flank steak or hanger steak.
Red Wine Vinegar: Balsamic or apple cider vinegar.
Tomatoes: Use cherry tomatoes and pulse in a blender if needed.
Olive Oil: Avocado oil for a milder flavor.
Garlic: Garlic powder in a pinch (though fresh is best).
Parsley/Basil: Cilantro or chives work well too.

Ingredient Spotlight

Skirt Steak: A long, flat cut known for its deep, beefy flavor. Because it has a pronounced grain, it should always be sliced against the grain after cooking for the best texture.
Grated Tomato: Grating fresh tomatoes creates a salsa that’s juicy, raw, and naturally sweet — no cooking needed.

Instructions for Making Grilled Skirt Steak with Grated Tomato Salsa

This dish is fast and full of flavor — perfect for a casual dinner or weekend BBQ. Here’s how to make it:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Heat your grill or grill pan over high heat until very hot.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Rub the mixture all over the steak and let it sit for 30 minutes at room temperature.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   While the steak marinates, grate the tomatoes using a box grater into a medium bowl, discarding the skins. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, minced garlic, vinegar, a pinch of salt, and lemon juice if using.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   Once your grill is hot, place the steak on it. Sear for about 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust to your desired doneness.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5–10 minutes.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Slice the steak thinly against the grain. Spoon the fresh tomato salsa over the top.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve warm, alongside crusty bread, grilled veggies, or rice.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

You get rich, juicy beef with that perfect outer crust, thanks to the quick high-heat grill. Then the salsa comes in — cool, bright, and garlicky — creating a balance of hot and cold, soft and sharp. The grated tomato gives a slightly pulpy texture that hugs the meat in every bite.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Level up your steak game with these tips:

• Bring steak to room temp before grilling for even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure — 130°F for medium-rare.
• Grill the steak over direct heat for the best char.
• Double the tomato salsa and use leftovers as a topping for eggs or toast.

What to Avoid

To keep your dish from falling flat:

• Don’t overcook the steak — it can get tough fast.
• Avoid using underripe tomatoes — they’ll taste watery and bland.
• Don’t forget to slice against the grain — it ensures tender bites.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 330

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating)

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can marinate the steak up to a day ahead for deeper flavor. The tomato salsa can also be made a few hours in advance — just keep it chilled and stir before serving. Leftover steak should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently or enjoy cold in sandwiches and wraps.

How to Serve Grilled Skirt Steak with Grated Tomato Salsa

Serve the steak sliced on a platter with the salsa spooned generously over the top. Add a side of grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or fresh crusty bread to soak up the juices. It also works beautifully in tacos, wraps, or alongside a simple green salad.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Give your leftovers a second life with these tasty ideas:

• Steak Sandwiches: Layer with salsa, cheese, and arugula in a ciabatta roll.
• Steak Tacos: Wrap in tortillas with avocado and lime.
• Grain Bowls: Serve over rice or quinoa with black beans and veggies.
• Steak & Eggs: Slice thin and serve with scrambled eggs for brunch.

Additional Tips

• Don’t skip the resting step — it locks in juices.
• For a spicy salsa, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or minced jalapeño.
• Serve everything family-style for a casual, social meal vibe.

Make It a Showstopper

Present the sliced steak on a rustic wooden board with the salsa drizzled dramatically over the top. Add sprigs of fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and a drizzle of olive oil for a glossy finish. Serve with grilled bread or roasted garlic cloves for extra wow.

Variations to Try

• Chili Kick: Add chopped fresh chili to the salsa.
• Herb Explosion: Stir chopped mint or dill into the tomato mixture.
• Cheesy Finish: Top with crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan.
• Smoky Rub: Add smoked paprika or chipotle to the steak marinade.
• Mediterranean Twist: Serve with olives and cucumber salad.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use another cut of steak?

A1: Yes, flank steak or flat iron work well too.

Q2: Do I need a grill?

A2: No, a grill pan or cast-iron skillet on the stove works great.

Q3: Can I make the tomato salsa ahead?

A3: Yes, up to 4 hours in advance. Just chill and stir before serving.

Q4: How do I know when the steak is done?

A4: Use a thermometer — 130°F for medium-rare.

Q5: Is this dish spicy?

A5: Not by default, but you can add chili for heat.

Q6: Can I use cherry tomatoes?

A6: Yes, just pulse them in a blender or grate them carefully.

Q7: Can I add onions to the salsa?

A7: Absolutely. Finely chopped red onion adds great crunch.

Q8: Is this gluten-free?

A8: Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q9: Can I double the recipe?

A9: Yes, just grill in batches or use a large surface.

Q10: What if I don’t have red wine vinegar?

A10: Lemon juice or balsamic vinegar are great substitutes.

Conclusion

Grilled Skirt Steak with Grated Tomato Salsa brings together bold, juicy steak and the clean freshness of raw tomato in one unforgettable bite. It’s the kind of dish that feels both comforting and elevated, whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just craving something amazing for dinner. Trust me, this one’s worth firing up the grill for.

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