Surf and turf tacos bring together the best of both worlds—succulent seafood and tender, flavorful meat—in one delicious bite. This fusion dish combines the rich flavors of the ocean with the hearty satisfaction of land-based protein, creating a taco experience that’s anything but ordinary. Perfect for a casual dinner or a weekend gathering, these tacos are sure to impress.
We love how versatile surf and turf tacos are. You can customize them with your favorite toppings, salsas, and spices to match your taste. Whether you’re grilling shrimp alongside juicy steak or pan-searing scallops with marinated beef, this recipe delivers bold flavors and a satisfying texture combo that’ll keep everyone coming back for more. Let’s dive into making these mouthwatering tacos that bring a touch of gourmet to your taco night.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Surf and Turf Tacos, we carefully select fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out bold flavors and satisfying textures. Below are the essential components categorized for easy preparation and assembly.
Surf Ingredients
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz scallops, cleaned and patted dry
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Turf Ingredients
- 8 oz skirt steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Taco Assembly Ingredients
- 8 small corn tortillas
- ½ cup red cabbage, shredded
- ¼ cup pickled red onions
- ½ avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup crumbled queso fresco
- Fresh lime wedges for serving
Seasonings and Marinades
| Ingredient | Purpose | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Paprika | Adds smoky depth | 1 tsp |
| Cumin | Provides earthy warmth | 1 tsp |
| Chili powder | Brings mild heat | 1 tsp |
| Salt | Enhances natural flavors | To taste |
| Black pepper | Adds sharp, peppery notes | To taste |
| Lime juice | Brightens and tenderizes | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic powder | Adds subtle garlic flavor | ½ tsp |
| Olive oil | Helps marinate and cook even | 3 tbsp |
Pro tip: Marinate the shrimp, scallops, and steak separately with the seasonings to lock in maximum flavor before cooking.
This carefully curated list ensures our Surf and Turf Tacos burst with flavor and texture in every bite.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Surf and Turf Tacos with precision and ease, we need to gather the essential kitchen tools. Each piece of equipment plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor balance between the succulent seafood and tender steak.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cast Iron Skillet | Searing skirt steak to develop rich crust |
| Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill | Cooking shrimp and scallops for smoky flavor |
| Mixing Bowls | Marinating proteins separately |
| Tongs | Handling and flipping seafood and steak safely |
| Chef’s Knife | Slicing steak and chopping vegetables |
| Cutting Board | Preparing ingredients hygienically |
| Small Saucepan | Heating sauces or warming tortillas |
| Measuring Spoons | Accurate spice and marinade measurements |
| Paper Towels | Patting dry seafood and steak before cooking |
Additional Tools for Taco Assembly
- Warm Corn Tortillas: Use a dry skillet or griddle to keep tortillas pliable.
- Serving Platter: Arrange tacos attractively for guests.
- Citrus Juicer: Extract fresh lime juice to brighten the dish.
- Spatula: Gently flip delicate seafood without breaking.
By using these tools, we ensure a smooth cooking process and retain the bold flavors that define our Surf and Turf Tacos Recipe. Our organized kitchen setup lets us focus on the dynamic combination of flavors and textures that make these tacos exceptional.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking, preparation is key to crafting outstanding Surf and Turf Tacos. Let’s break down the essential steps to prep each component, ensuring a seamless cooking experience and maximum flavor.
Preparing the Surf (Seafood)
- Clean and Devein Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water. Remove the shells and devein by making a shallow cut along the back and pulling out the vein.
- Prepare Scallops: Pat scallops dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better searing.
- Marinate Seafood Separately: Combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss shrimp and scallops individually in the marinade. Let them rest for 15–20 minutes in the refrigerator to absorb flavors without overpowering their natural sweetness.
- Keep Seafood Chilled: Store marinated seafood covered in the fridge until cooking to maintain freshness and safety.
Preparing the Turf (Meat)
- Select and Trim Steak: Use skirt steak or sirloin. Trim excess fat and silver skin for even cooking and tenderness.
- Slice Steak Thinly: For faster cooking and tender bites, slice steak against the grain into thin strips.
- Marinate Steak Separately: Whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Coat steak slices thoroughly and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- Remove from Fridge Before Cooking: Take the steak out 10 minutes prior to cooking to bring it to room temperature for even searing.
Preparing Additional Toppings and Sauces
- Shred Red Cabbage: Thinly slice for crisp texture and vibrant color.
- Prepare Pickled Red Onions: If not store-bought, soak thin-sliced red onions in lime juice with a pinch of salt for at least 15 minutes.
- Slice Avocado: Peel and slice into uniform wedges just before assembly to avoid browning.
- Crumble Queso Fresco: Break cheese into small, even pieces for a creamy, tangy finish.
- Mix Salsas and Creamy Sauces: Combine ingredients like tomatoes, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice for salsa. Prepare crema by mixing sour cream or Greek yogurt with lime zest and juice.
| Component | Key Prep Steps | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp and Scallops | Clean, marinate separately | 15-20 minutes |
| Steak | Trim, slice against the grain, marinate | 30+ minutes |
| Red Cabbage | Thinly shredded | 5 minutes |
| Pickled Red Onions | Soaked in lime juice | 15 minutes |
| Avocado | Sliced just before assembly | 2 minutes |
| Queso Fresco | Crumbled | 1 minute |
| Salsas and Creamy Sauces | Mixed fresh | 10 minutes |
Having everything prepped and organized allows us to maintain the bold flavors and textures that make these surf and turf tacos irresistible.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these step-by-step cooking instructions to perfectly prepare our surf and turf tacos, ensuring each bite is a bold explosion of flavor and satisfying texture.
Cooking the Turf
- Preheat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it is smoking hot.
- Remove the skirt steak or sirloin from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
- Sear the steak in the skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side to achieve a rich crust and tender inside.
- Use tongs to flip the steak gently without piercing the meat to retain juices.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board; this locks in the juices.
- Slice the steak thinly against the grain into even strips for an optimal tender bite.
- Keep the steak warm by tenting with foil while we move on to the surf component.
Cooking the Surf
- Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat for a perfect sear.
- Remove shrimp and scallops from their marinade, shaking off excess but do not pat dry.
- Place shrimp and scallops on the grill pan in a single layer; avoid overcrowding.
- Cook shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until they turn opaque and firm but still juicy.
- Grill scallops for 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a caramelized crust and are just cooked through.
- Avoid overcooking the seafood to maintain tender, flavorful bites.
- Transfer grilled shrimp and scallops to a warm plate and cover loosely with foil.
| Protein | Heat Level | Time per Side | Doneness Indicator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steak | Medium-High | 3-4 minutes | Rich crust, medium-rare inside |
| Shrimp | Medium-High | 2 minutes | Opaque, firm but juicy |
| Scallops | Medium-High | 2-3 minutes | Caramelized crust, tender inside |
Assembling the Surf And Turf Tacos
Bringing together the vibrant flavors of the surf and turf tacos requires careful assembly to achieve the ideal balance of taste and texture. Let’s walk through each step to ensure every bite delivers the delicious fusion of seafood and steak.
Warming the Tortillas
Warming the corn tortillas is essential for both flavor and pliability. We recommend:
- Heating a dry skillet or comal over medium heat.
- Place each tortilla on the hot surface for about 30 seconds per side, or until warm and slightly toasted.
- Keep warmed tortillas wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to retain softness.
This process enhances the natural corn flavor and prevents tearing when adding the heavier fillings.
Layering Ingredients
Start building the tacos by layering the main proteins to create a solid flavor base:
| Step | Ingredient | Quantity per Taco | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Warm Corn Tortilla | 1 | Use freshly warmed tortillas |
| 2 | Sliced Seared Steak | 2-3 oz | Thin slices laid flat for easy bites |
| 3 | Grilled Shrimp and Scallops | 2-3 pieces total | Arrange evenly to blend surf with turf |
Place the sliced steak first to anchor the taco. Next, add the juicy shrimp and scallops on top to highlight the surf and turf contrast.
Adding Toppings and Sauces
Elevate the tacos with fresh, vibrant toppings and creamy sauces for the perfect finish:
- Shredded Red Cabbage: Sprinkle on for crisp texture and color contrast.
- Pickled Red Onions: Add a tangy bite that cuts through richness.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado balances flavors and adds richness.
- Crumbled Queso Fresco: Sprinkle generously for a salty, mild finish.
- Fresh Salsa: Spoon over your choice of salsa (pico de gallo or salsa verde) for brightness.
- Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce: Drizzle lightly to tie all elements together.
Keep toppings moderate to preserve the bold surf and turf flavors without overwhelming them.
Serving Suggestions
To complement our Surf And Turf Tacos and elevate the entire dining experience, we recommend pairing them with sides and beverages that enhance the bold flavors and fresh textures.
Ideal Sides to Pair
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Grilled corn slathered with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime offers a creamy and smoky contrast that pairs beautifully with the rich steak and tender seafood.
- Cilantro Lime Rice
A fragrant, zesty rice dish that cuts through the richness of the tacos with fresh acidity and herbaceous notes.
- Black Bean Salad
A refreshing salad made with black beans, diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and a lime vinaigrette adds protein and a cool, crisp bite.
| Side Dish | Key Flavor Elements | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Mexican Street Corn | Creamy, smoky, tangy | Balances richness of surf and turf |
| Cilantro Lime Rice | Zesty, herbaceous | Provides fresh contrast |
| Black Bean Salad | Fresh, acidic, crunchy | Adds cooling texture |
Suggested Drinks
- Classic Margarita
The bright lime and subtle sweetness of a margarita perfectly complement the lime and spice elements in our tacos.
- Light Mexican Lager
A crisp, refreshing lager balances the savory flavors without overpowering the seafood and steak.
- Agua Fresca
Flavored waters such as watermelon or cucumber agua fresca soothe the palate and provide a light, natural sweetness.
Serving Tips
- Warm the tortillas just before serving to maintain flexibility and enhance flavor.
- Serve toppings and sauces on the side to allow guests to customize their tacos.
- Offer lime wedges for an extra burst of fresh acidity on the tacos.
“Properly paired sides and drinks can transform our Surf And Turf Tacos into a complete gourmet feast, highlighting the complex layers of bold, fresh, and savory flavors.”
By keeping the accompaniments balanced and complementary, we ensure every bite of our surf and turf tacos is an exquisite indulgence.
Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our surf and turf tacos with minimal last-minute fuss, we recommend preparing several components ahead of time. Here’s how to streamline the process while preserving the bold flavors and textures that define this dish.
Marinate Proteins in Advance
Marinating both the steak and seafood separately is essential for deep flavor infusion. We suggest:
- Marinate the skirt steak or sirloin for at least 2 to 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Marinate shrimp and scallops for about 30 minutes before cooking. Avoid longer marinating times for seafood to prevent texture degradation.
By prepping marinades early and storing proteins covered and chilled, we guarantee robust flavor development.
Prepare Toppings and Sauces Early
Most toppings can be made a day ahead:
| Component | Advance Prep Steps | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded red cabbage | Wash, shred, and store airtight | Refrigerate up to 2 days |
| Pickled red onions | Slice and pickle in vinegar brine | Keep refrigerated, best within 3 days |
| Sliced avocado | Best freshly sliced, but can prepare 30 minutes ahead with lime to prevent browning | Cover tightly with plastic wrap |
| Queso fresco | Crumble and store airtight | Refrigerate up to 3 days |
| Cilantro lime sauce | Mix ingredients 24 hours ahead | Refrigerate in sealed container |
Warm and Store Tortillas
For optimal texture:
- Warm the corn tortillas just before serving or
- Wrap them in foil and keep in a low oven (around 200°F/93°C) to maintain warmth if prepping ahead.
Avoid refrigerating warmed tortillas as this can cause dryness.
Protein Cooking and Storage Guidelines
Cooking proteins in advance can save time but requires proper handling.
| Protein | Cook-Ahead Window | Storage Method & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Steak | Up to 24 hours | Slice after resting, store in airtight container, keep refrigerated |
| Shrimp & Scallops | Maximum 12 hours | Cool quickly after cooking, refrigerate in covered dish |
When ready to serve, gently reheat proteins in a hot skillet to revive flavors without overcooking.
Pro Tip: For maximum flavor and freshness, marinate proteins the night before, prep toppings early, and assemble tacos just moments before serving. This approach enhances each element’s vibrancy and texture, making our surf and turf tacos an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
Surf and turf tacos offer a delicious way to enjoy the best of both worlds with bold flavors and satisfying textures. By combining fresh seafood and tender steak with vibrant toppings and sauces, we create a meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
With a little prep and the right techniques, these tacos come together easily and impressively. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a casual dinner, surf and turf tacos bring excitement and gourmet flair to your table every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are surf and turf tacos?
Surf and turf tacos combine seafood (like shrimp and scallops) with meat (such as skirt steak or sirloin) to create a flavorful and unique taco experience that balances bold textures and tastes.
What ingredients do I need to make surf and turf tacos?
You’ll need fresh shrimp, scallops, skirt steak or sirloin, corn tortillas, red cabbage, pickled red onions, avocado, queso fresco, various seasonings, marinades, and toppings like salsa and creamy sauces.
How should I prepare the seafood and meat for these tacos?
Clean and devein the shrimp, prepare scallops, and slice steak thinly against the grain. Marinate seafood and meat separately to enhance flavors and tenderness.
What kitchen tools are essential for making surf and turf tacos?
A cast iron skillet for steak, a grill pan or outdoor grill for seafood, mixing bowls for marinating, a citrus juicer, and tools for taco assembly like warming trays for tortillas.
How long should I cook the steak and seafood?
Sear the steak in a hot skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side and grill seafood for 2 to 3 minutes per side to keep it juicy and flavorful without overcooking.
How do I assemble surf and turf tacos properly?
Warm the tortillas first, then layer sliced steak, grilled shrimp, and scallops. Add moderate fresh toppings such as shredded cabbage, pickled onions, avocado, queso fresco, salsa, and a creamy cilantro lime sauce.
What sides and drinks pair well with surf and turf tacos?
Ideal sides include Mexican street corn, cilantro lime rice, and black bean salad. Drink options to complement the flavors are margaritas, light Mexican lagers, and agua fresca.
Can I prepare any parts of the tacos in advance?
Yes, marinate steak 2 to 4 hours or overnight; seafood for about 30 minutes. You can prep toppings and sauces a day ahead and cook steak up to 24 hours or seafood up to 12 hours before serving for optimal convenience.
What’s the best way to marinate proteins for these tacos?
Marinate the steak and seafood separately using chosen seasonings. For maximum flavor, marinate steak overnight and seafood about 30 minutes before cooking.
Why are surf and turf tacos perfect for gatherings?
They offer bold, satisfying flavors and textures that can be customized easily, making them a gourmet yet casual dish great for sharing with family and friends.