Forget the pico — this radish salsa is the unexpected star of these smoky steak tacos. Thinly sliced radishes, fresh jalapeño, and a squeeze of lime bring a crisp, bright contrast to the deeply spiced flank steak, all wrapped in a warm charred corn tortilla. Ready in 20 minutes and packed with 27 grams of protein per serving, this one earns a permanent spot in the weeknight rotation.

Active time: 15 minutes | Total time: 20 minutes

Smoky Steak Tacos With Radish Salsa

Ingredients

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 3/4 tsp kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb flank steak, trimmed
• 1 tbsp canola oil
• 8 (6-inch) corn tortillas
• 1 cup (115g) radishes, thinly sliced
• 3/4 cup (53g) green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (8g) fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 red or green jalapeño chili, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice

Directions

In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp of the salt, and black pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.

Heat a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and swirl to coat. Add the steak and cook for about 5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired doneness; for food safety, the USDA recommends an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest. Remove the steak from the pan and let rest for 5 minutes.

Warm the tortillas directly over a gas flame or in a dry skillet over high heat for about 10 seconds per side, until lightly charred and heated through. Wrap in a towel to keep warm.

In a medium bowl, combine the radishes, green onions, cilantro, and jalapeño. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 tsp salt and drizzle with lime juice; toss gently to combine. Cut the steak in half lengthwise, then slice thinly against the grain. Divide the steak and radish mixture evenly among the tortillas.

Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 2 tacos

Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 332; Total Fat: 14g; Saturated Fat: 4g; Monounsaturated Fat: 2g; Cholesterol: 75mg; Sodium: 382mg; Carbohydrate: 24g; Dietary Fiber: 4g; Sugar: 4g; Protein 27g

Nutrition Bonus: Potassium: 160mg; Iron: 17%; Vitamin A: 19%; Vitamin C: 9%; Calcium: 4%

Originally Published March 19, 2020; Updated April 2026