Land Meets Sea: The Ultimate Taco Experience
The Surf and Turf Taco is a true celebration of flavor, combining the best elements of Mexican street food with a gourmet twist. Known as Tacos Mar y Tierra (Sea and Land), this recipe pairs tender, smoky grilled steak (Carne Asada) with juicy, perfectly seasoned shrimp. The rich, savory beef beautifully contrasts the bright, delicate flavor of the seafood, all nestled in a warm tortilla and crowned with simple, fresh toppings. This recipe is surprisingly easy to master and guarantees a show-stopping meal, whether you’re grilling for a crowd or enjoying a festive dinner at home. Master this dish and transform your next Taco Tuesday!
🥩 Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that authentic, complex flavor profile.
For the Steak (Carne Asada):
- 1.5 lbs Flank or Skirt Steak, trimmed.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Lime Juice.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder.
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cumin.
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste.
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb Large Shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail on or off).
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Butter.
- 1/2 teaspoon Chili Powder.
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika.
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste.
For Assembly:
- 12-16 Corn or Flour Tortillas (street-taco size).
- 1/2 cup Finely Diced White Onion.
- 1/2 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro.
- Lime Wedges, for serving.
- Your favorite hot sauce or salsa (optional).
🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bring the flavors of the Mar y Tierra to your kitchen.
1. Marinate the Carne Asada
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin, bite-sized strips (about 1/4 inch thick).
- In a bowl, toss the steak strips with the lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can marinate it for up to 4 hours for maximum tenderness.
2. Season the Shrimp
- Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp completely dry with a paper towel; this helps them sear better.
- In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of oil or melted butter, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Set them aside while you cook the steak.
3. Cook the Steak
- Heat a large skillet, cast-iron pan, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat until it is smoking hot.
- Add the marinated steak strips, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary for a proper sear.
- Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring only occasionally, until the meat is beautifully caramelized and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Remove the steak from the heat and transfer it to a warm plate.
4. Cook the Shrimp
- Using the same pan or a clean one, return the heat to medium-high.
- Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for only 2 to 3 minutes per side. Shrimp cook very quickly; they are done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove them immediately to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
5. Warm the Tortillas
- Warm the corn or flour tortillas on a dry griddle or skillet for about 30 seconds per side until they are soft and slightly pliable. This essential step prevents them from breaking when filled.
- Keep the warmed tortillas wrapped in a clean towel or tortilla warmer.
6. Assemble and Serve
- Take a warm tortilla and layer a generous mix of the cooked carne asada and the spiced shrimp in the center.
- Garnish simply but effectively with a sprinkle of the diced white onion and fresh cilantro.
- Serve immediately with a wedge of lime for squeezing over the top—the fresh acid is crucial for balancing the rich flavors—and your favorite spicy salsa or pico de gallo.
💡 Pro Tips and Flavor Variations
- The Right Sear: Always use high heat when cooking both the meat and seafood to achieve a quick, flavorful sear, locking in the moisture.
- The Perfect Drizzle: Create a simple Lime Crema by mixing sour cream or Greek yogurt with a splash of fresh lime juice and a pinch of salt. Drizzle this over the assembled tacos for a cooling, creamy element.
- Alternative Toppings: For extra texture, consider adding thinly sliced radishes or a small amount of crumbled cotija cheese.
- Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning or serve with a spicy chipotle salsa.