Charred Tri-Tip Steak with Smoky Fire-Roasted Salsa
A robust tri-tip steak grilled over high heat and paired with a smoky salsa combining charred tomatoes and roasted peppers for a balanced smoky flavor. This american-inspired grilling ready in about 35 minutes blends pounds tri-tip steak, tablespoons olive oil, teaspoon smoked paprika into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 380 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds tri-tip steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 medium roma tomatoes
- 1 whole jalapeño pepper
- 1 medium red bell pepper
- 1/2 medium red onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat a grill or grill pan to high heat (about 450°F). Rub 1.5 pounds of tri-tip steak with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper evenly on both sides.
- Step 2: Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until a dark char forms and internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare; remove and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Step 3: While the steak rests, char 3 medium roma tomatoes, 1 whole jalapeño pepper, and 1 medium red bell pepper directly on the grill for about 5 minutes per side until blackened and softened.
- Step 4: Dice 1/2 medium red onion finely. Once the grilled vegetables cool slightly, peel the skins off if desired, then chop the tomatoes, jalapeño (remove seeds for less heat), and red bell pepper into small pieces.
- Step 5: Combine the chopped grilled vegetables with the diced red onion, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro in a bowl. Stir gently to mix smoky salsa.
- Step 6: Slice the rested tri-tip steak thinly against the grain and serve topped with the smoky fire-roasted salsa.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Charred Tri-Tip Steak with Smoky Fire-Roasted Salsa take to make?
Total time is about 35 minutes (15 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Charred Tri-Tip Steak with Smoky Fire-Roasted Salsa?
Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.
Can I substitute ingredients in Charred Tri-Tip Steak with Smoky Fire-Roasted Salsa?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Charred Tri-Tip Steak with Smoky Fire-Roasted Salsa for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Charred Tri-Tip Steak with Smoky Fire-Roasted Salsa?
American grilling like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
