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In the world of quick and delightful meals, few can rival the appeal of beef tacos. This Quick & Zesty Beef Tacos recipe offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we will explore the recipe in detail, delve into the origins of tacos, and discover how to elevate your taco night experience.

Quick Beef Tacos with Fresh Salsa

Bring the fiesta to your kitchen with this Quick & Zesty Beef Tacos recipe! Perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers, these flavorful tacos combine ground beef with a zesty blend of spices and fresh salsa. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a crowd-pleasing meal in no time. Elevate your taco night by customizing toppings and serving sides, and enjoy a delightful dining experience that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

For the Beef Tacos:

1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for optimal flavor)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

8 small corn or flour tortillas

1 cup shredded lettuce

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

½ cup sour cream (optional)

Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

For the Fresh Salsa:

2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced

1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped

1 small red onion, finely chopped

Juice of 1 lime

Salt and pepper to taste

¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions
 

Prepare the Fresh Salsa: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped jalapeño, finely chopped red onion, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir thoroughly, then set aside to allow the flavors to intermingle.

    Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until the onions are soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

      Season the Meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up into small crumbles. Cook the beef for approximately 5-7 minutes until it is well-browned. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it from the skillet.

        Spice It Up: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the browned beef. Stir well to combine, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the spices release their lovely aroma.

          Warm the Tortillas: While the beef is finishing up, warm the tortillas in a separate skillet over medium heat. Heat each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side, until they are soft and pliable. Keep them warm in a clean kitchen towel as you cook the rest.

            Assemble the Tacos: Take a heated tortilla and place it on a serving plate. Spoon a generous portion of the seasoned beef mixture onto the tortilla. Top it with a handful of shredded lettuce and a sprinkle of cheese. If you like, add a dollop of sour cream to the top.

              Top with Fresh Salsa: Carefully spoon the prepared fresh salsa over the beef-topped tortilla, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of flavor and color.

                Serve and Enjoy: Serve the tacos immediately while they are warm, along with extra lime wedges for squeezing over the top if desired. Enjoy the delightful explosion of flavors with each bite!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | Serves 4.