Surf n turf tacos bring together the best of both worlds—succulent seafood and savory steak—in one delicious handheld bite. This fusion dish takes traditional tacos to a whole new level by combining fresh ocean flavors with hearty land favorites. It’s perfect for those who want a little variety and excitement on their plate.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Surf N Turf Tacos, we’ll need fresh seafood, quality beef, soft tortillas, and flavorful sauce and toppings. Here’s everything laid out clearly so we can enjoy every bite of this exciting fusion meal.
For the Surf (Seafood)
- 8 oz fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 oz sea scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Turf (Beef)
- 8 oz flank steak or skirt steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Tacos
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for warming tortillas)
For the Sauce and Toppings
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced (optional)
- Salt to taste
| Ingredient Category | Key Ingredients Summary |
|---|---|
| Surf (Seafood) | Shrimp, scallops, olive oil, smoked paprika, lime juice |
| Turf (Beef) | Flank steak, olive oil, cumin, chili powder |
| Tacos | Corn or flour tortillas, vegetable oil |
| Sauce and Toppings | Sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, cilantro |
By assembling these fresh and vibrant ingredients, we set the stage for crafting irresistibly flavorful Surf N Turf Tacos that balance the best of sea and land delights.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Surf N Turf Tacos recipe perfectly, gathering the right equipment is essential. This ensures every step runs smoothly and our flavors shine through.
- Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Pan
For searing the flank steak and cooking the shrimp and sea scallops. The high heat retention creates a beautiful crust and locks in juices.
- Mixing Bowls
Use several bowls for marinating the steak and seafood separately. This prevents flavor cross-contamination and keeps ingredients fresh.
- Tongs
Essential for flipping the steak and seafood gently without piercing, preserving moisture and texture.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
For slicing the flank steak into thin strips and chopping toppings such as onions, cilantro, and lime.
- Cutting Board
Preferably separate boards for meat and vegetables to maintain hygiene.
- Small Whisk or Fork
For mixing sauces and marinades evenly.
- Meat Thermometer
To check the steak’s internal temperature and achieve perfect doneness every time.
- Nonstick Skillet or Tortilla Warmer
To warm tortillas gently without drying or tearing.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cast Iron Skillet | Searing steak and seafood |
| Mixing Bowls | Marinating and mixing ingredients |
| Tongs | Handling steak and seafood |
| Chef’s Knife | Slicing steak and chopping toppings |
| Cutting Board | Preparing ingredients safely |
| Small Whisk or Fork | Mixing sauces and marinades |
| Meat Thermometer | Measuring steak’s internal temperature |
| Nonstick Skillet/Tortilla Warmer | Warming tortillas |
“Using the right equipment not only improves the cooking experience but also elevates the final taste and presentation of our Surf N Turf Tacos.” Let’s ensure these tools are ready before we move to the next step.
Prep Work
Getting the surf n turf tacos ready begins with precise and efficient preparation. We break down the steps to prepare each component to ensure bold flavors and perfect texture in every bite.
Preparing the Seafood
Start by handling the seafood with care to preserve its freshness and natural sweetness.
- Shrimp: Peel and devein 1 pound of fresh shrimp. Pat dry with paper towels to get a good sear.
- Sea Scallops: Rinse 12 large sea scallops under cold water and pat dry thoroughly. Remove the side muscle if present, as it can be chewy.
- Season the seafood lightly with salt, black pepper, and a splash of lime juice to enhance brightness. Set aside for 10 minutes to marinate briefly.
Preparing the Beef
To maximize tenderness and flavor in our steak:
- Use 1 pound of flank steak. Trim excess fat and slice against the grain into thin strips about ¼ inch thick.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Toss the steak strips in this marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.
| Marinade Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons | Moisture, cooking fat |
| Soy Sauce | 1 tablespoon | Umami flavor |
| Smoked Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Smoky aroma |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Pungent flavor |
Preparing the Sauce and Toppings
Our sauce and toppings add the critical layers of flavor that make surf n turf tacos irresistible:
- Sauce: Whisk together ½ cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, and 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt.
- Toppings: Chop 1 cup red cabbage finely for crunch, dice 1 fresh avocado for creaminess, and slice 1 small red onion thinly for bite.
- Keep all components chilled until assembly for the best balance against the warm seafood and steak.
By following this structured prep work process, we set the foundation for a perfectly balanced and flavorful surf n turf tacos experience.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s bring together the vibrant flavors of surf and turf by carefully cooking each component to perfection. Follow these precise steps to ensure every bite of our Surf N Turf Tacos delivers a delicious balance of savory steak and succulent seafood.
Cooking the Beef
- Preheat your cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until it is screaming hot. This ensures a great sear and locks in the juices.
- Remove the flank steak from the marinade. Pat it dry with paper towels to prevent steaming instead of searing.
- Carefully place the steak on the hot pan. Let it sear undisturbed for 4-5 minutes on one side until a rich, deep crust forms.
- Flip the steak and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium rare, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) on a meat thermometer.
- Remove the steak from heat and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak tender and juicy.
- Slice the steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
| Steak Cooking Step | Action | Time/Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat Pan | Medium-high heat | Until very hot |
| Sear First Side | Undisturbed searing | 4-5 minutes |
| Cook Second Side | Flip and cook | 3-4 minutes or 130°F |
| Rest | Off heat, wrapped loosely | 10 minutes |
Cooking the Seafood
- Preheat the cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat for the seafood.
- For the shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper. Place them on the hot pan in a single layer.
- Cook the shrimp for 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy and tender.
- For the sea scallops, ensure they are patted dry to get a perfect sear. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place scallops in the pan without crowding. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on the first side without moving. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes.
- Remove seafood from the pan immediately to prevent overcooking and set aside.
| Seafood Cooking Step | Item | Action | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shrimp Cooking | Shrimp | Sear on first side | 2 minutes |
| Flip and cook | 2 minutes | ||
| Scallops Cooking | Scallops | Sear first side undisturbed | 2-3 minutes |
| Flip and cook second side | 1-2 minutes |
Successfully cooking both steak and seafood at these temperatures and times guarantees that our Surf N Turf Tacos will showcase perfect textures and vibrant flavors in every bite.
Assembling the Surf N Turf Tacos
To assemble our Surf N Turf Tacos for maximum flavor and texture, we’ll layer each component with care to highlight the perfect balance of land and sea delights.
Step 1: Warm the Tortillas
We start by warming the tortillas to make them pliable and bring out their subtle flavor. Heat them on a dry skillet or directly over a gas flame for 15–20 seconds per side until soft and slightly charred. Keep them warm wrapped in a clean kitchen towel until ready to assemble.
Step 2: Layer the Protein
Place a generous portion of seared flank steak slices onto the center of each tortilla. Follow with the perfectly cooked shrimp and seared sea scallops. This combination ensures every bite offers an exciting mix of juicy steak and succulent seafood.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Drizzle our prepared zesty chipotle crema over the protein layers. The sauce’s creamy texture and smoky spice add depth while complementing both the beef and seafood beautifully.
Step 4: Top with Fresh Ingredients
Add a handful of chopped fresh cilantro, thinly sliced red onions, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. These toppings brighten the tacos, balancing the rich and savory flavors with fresh, tangy notes.
Step 5: Final Garnish
If desired, sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese for creamy, salty contrast, and add sliced jalapeños for extra heat. Serve immediately while everything is warm and vibrant.
| Assembly Element | Purpose | Suggested Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Warmed tortillas | Base, pliable wrapping | 2 tortillas per taco |
| Flank steak slices | Hearty, savory protein | 3 ounces per taco |
| Shrimp and scallops | Tender, juicy seafood complement | 3-4 pieces shrimp and 2 scallops |
| Chipotle crema | Creamy, spicy sauce | 1-2 tablespoons per taco |
| Fresh cilantro | Herbaceous brightness | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Red onion | Sharp, crunchy contrast | 1 tablespoon, thinly sliced |
| Lime juice | Acidic lift | 1 teaspoon per taco |
| Cotija cheese (optional) | Creamy, salty garnish | 1 teaspoon crumbled |
| Jalapeños (optional) | Additional heat | As desired |
“The secret to perfect Surf N Turf Tacos lies in balanced layering — each element shines yet works harmoniously.”
By following these steps, we ensure every bite delivers rich surf and turf flavors wrapped in a tender warm tortilla with fresh and tangy highlights.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Surf N Turf Tacos experience, we recommend pairing them with vibrant sides and refreshing beverages that complement the rich surf and turf flavors.
Side Dish Pairings
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn brushed with a creamy sauce, sprinkled with cotija cheese and chili powder. Its smoky sweetness balances the savory steak and sweet seafood.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy white rice tossed with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. This light side cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate.
- Black Bean Salad: A zesty mix of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro dressed with lime vinaigrette. It adds a crunchy texture and bright acidity.
Beverage Recommendations
- Classic Margarita: The tangy lime and tequila lift the overall meal, enhancing flavors.
- Crisp Lager or Pilsner: Light beers cleanse the palate and pair well with both steak and seafood.
- Agua Fresca: Fresh fruit-based drinks such as watermelon or pineapple agua fresca offer a naturally sweet contrast.
Presentation Tips
- Serve with Lime Wedges on the side for an additional fresh citrus burst just before eating.
- Use Warm Corn or Flour Tortillas and keep them wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or tortilla warmer to maintain softness.
- Garnish with Fresh Cilantro and Sliced Jalapeños to add visual appeal and extra layers of flavor and heat.
- Offer Cotija Cheese and Extra Chipotle Crema in small bowls for guests to customize their tacos.
| Item | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mexican Street Corn | Grilled corn with creamy, spicy toppings | Balances savory steak & seafood |
| Cilantro Lime Rice | Fluffy rice with citrus and herbs | Refreshing side to cut richness |
| Black Bean Salad | Bean and vegetable salad with lime vinaigrette | Adds tanginess and crunch |
| Margarita | Lime and tequila cocktail | Enhances bright citrus flavors |
| Crisp Lager | Light, refreshing beer | Cleanses palate |
| Agua Fresca | Refreshing fruit drink | Provides natural sweetness |
As we assemble and serve our Surf N Turf Tacos, these suggestions ensure each bite is enhanced and the meal feels complete and memorable.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Surf N Turf Tacos with ease and maximum flavor, preparing key components ahead of time is essential. Here are our top make-ahead strategies to help you save time while maintaining the freshness and taste of each ingredient.
1. Marinate the Flank Steak Early
Marinating the flank steak for at least 2 to 4 hours or overnight in the fridge allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Place the steak in an airtight container with the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. This step renders the beef more tender and intensifies the savory profile.
2. Prep the Seafood in Advance
Peel, devein, and clean the shrimp and sea scallops up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in a covered bowl in the refrigerator. Avoid marinating the seafood too long to prevent a mushy texture. A quick toss in lime juice and seasoning right before cooking will keep them bright and fresh.
3. Make the Chipotle Crema and Sauce Ahead
The zesty chipotle crema gains depth when made 12 to 24 hours before serving. Store it in a sealed jar or bowl in the fridge. Similarly, prepare any additional sauces or dressings early, giving their flavors time to meld perfectly.
4. Chop and Store Toppings
Dice red onions, slice jalapeños, chop cilantro, and prepare lime wedges up to a day ahead. Store these toppings separately in airtight containers or resealable bags in the fridge to maintain crispness and vibrant color.
5. Warm and Store Tortillas
Warm tortillas on a griddle or skillet, then wrap them tightly in foil or a clean kitchen towel. Store at room temperature if using within a few hours, or refrigerate for longer storage. Reheat by wrapping them in foil and placing in a low oven before serving to retain softness.
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flank Steak | 2-4 hours or overnight | Airtight container in fridge | Ensure full marinade coverage |
| Shrimp & Scallops | Up to 24 hours | Covered bowl in fridge | Do not marinate too long to avoid mushiness |
| Chipotle Crema | 12-24 hours | Sealed jar or bowl in fridge | Flavors deepen with time |
| Toppings (onions, cilantro, jalapeños, lime) | Up to 24 hours | Airtight containers or bags in fridge | Maintain freshness by storing separately |
| Tortillas | A few hours to overnight | Wrapped in foil or towel, room temp or fridge | Reheat gently to keep soft |
Pro Tip: Assemble your surf n turf tacos just before serving. Keeping the cooked ingredients and fresh toppings separate until the last moment preserves texture integrity and ensures vibrant flavor contrasts in every bite.
Conclusion
Surf n turf tacos bring together the best of both worlds, creating a vibrant and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With the right ingredients, equipment, and preparation, we can easily craft tacos that burst with flavor and texture.
Taking the time to marinate, cook, and assemble thoughtfully makes all the difference in delivering that perfect bite every time. Whether for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos are sure to impress and delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are surf n turf tacos?
Surf n turf tacos combine seafood (like shrimp and scallops) with steak in a single taco, offering a delicious blend of ocean and land flavors.
What ingredients do I need for surf n turf tacos?
You’ll need fresh shrimp, sea scallops, flank steak, tortillas, sauces like chipotle crema, and toppings such as cilantro, red onions, lime juice, cotija cheese, and jalapeños.
What equipment is essential for making these tacos?
Key tools include a cast iron skillet or grill pan, mixing bowls, tongs, a sharp chef’s knife, and a meat thermometer for perfect cooking.
How should I prep the seafood and steak?
Peel and devein shrimp, clean scallops, and marinate the flank steak for 2 to 4 hours to maximize tenderness and flavor.
How do I cook the flank steak, shrimp, and scallops?
Sear the flank steak in a hot cast iron skillet, then cook shrimp and scallops briefly until opaque and tender for optimal texture.
What’s the best way to assemble surf n turf tacos?
Warm tortillas, layer cooked steak, shrimp, and scallops, add chipotle crema and fresh toppings like cilantro, lime, and onions, then garnish as desired.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
Yes, marinate steak overnight, prep seafood up to 24 hours in advance, make sauces beforehand, and chop toppings separately to keep them fresh.
What sides and drinks complement surf n turf tacos?
Try sides like Mexican Street Corn, Cilantro Lime Rice, and Black Bean Salad, paired with margaritas, crisp lagers, or refreshing agua fresca.
How can I enhance the presentation of these tacos?
Serve with warm tortillas, lime wedges, fresh cilantro, and jalapeños to create an inviting and colorful dish.
What is the key to perfect flavor balance in these tacos?
Balanced layering of seafood, steak, sauces, and fresh toppings ensures every bite delivers rich, harmonious surf and turf flavors.