Carne Asada Tacos
&
Tropical Mai Tai
Welcome to Date Nite . A simple, intentional way to cook together and slow down at home.
Date Nite was created to take the mental load out of planning dinner, so couples can focus on what actually matters: cooking side by side, sitting down together, and enjoying a well-thought-out night without stress or overcomplication. Each menu is designed with real life in mind, featuring approachable recipes, clear instructions, and just the right amount of prep to keep things relaxed and enjoyable.
This menu brings that ease to the table with citrus-marinated carne asada, warm tortillas, and fresh toppings that come together effortlessly. Paired with a tropical Mai Tai, it’s a fun, flavor-forward night that still feels grounded and unfussy. Perfect for a weeknight or a casual weekend dinner.
You’ll find everything you need in the Weekly Essentials section, from your full menu to your shopping list, along with Notes from the Kitchen for helpful tips along the way. We hope this taste of Date Nite makes cooking together feel easier, more intentional, and something you genuinely look forward to.
Kevin & Kate
Tropical Mai Tai
Carne Asada Tacos
notes from the kitchen
A few extra tips and tricks to help you get the most out of this week’s menu, straight from our own kitchen.
Choose Your Steak
We love using flank steak for these tacos, but skirt steak is also a great option. Skirt tends to be a bit thinner and fattier, so it cooks faster—just keep a close eye to avoid overcooking. Medium-rare to medium is your sweet spot for tenderness.
Marinating Time Tips
In a hurry? Aim for at least 30–60 minutes to get good flavor.
Planning ahead? You can marinate it for up to 24 hours—just keep it covered and refrigerated. The longer it sits, the deeper the flavor.
Grill or Pan-Sear Options
If you don’t have a grill or prefer indoor cooking, a cast iron skillet or grill pan works beautifully. Just be sure to get a nice sear on each side for flavor and color.
Cut Against the Grain
After cooking, let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes, then slice against the grain (perpendicular to the muscle fibers) for the most tender bite. A sharp knife makes this much easier!
Tortilla Tips
We love street-size corn tortillas for this menu—lightly charred or warmed before serving. But feel free to use flour, grain-free, or even make burrito bowls or wraps if that’s more your style. No wrong way to taco!
Serving Style
You can plate the tacos like we did, or go family-style and let everyone build their own at the table. Add a big bowl of chips, guac, or slaw and it instantly becomes a party.
Heads up: We may earn a small commission on products we’ve linked here. We only recommend the real-deal favorites from our kitchen.
we hope you love this week. and as always,
Keep the Plates Full and the Spark Alive
Want More Weeks Like This?
We believe that creating space for intentional weekly connection around the dinner table is one of the most grounding, nourishing things you can do, for your relationship and for yourself.
If you’ve enjoyed this summer menu, you’ll love what’s inside Date Nite. Each week we share a fresh, new menu with everything from kitchen notes, table talk prompts and leftover ideas to make dinnertime more meaningful. Join us and make Date Nite your new favorite ritual.
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