Taste the Spirit of San Diego
26 June 2025
There’s more than one way to get a taste of San Diego, and if you ask me, the best ones start in your own kitchen. I originally made this recipe for our Compass national cookbook that was going to spotlight agents and flavors from all across the country. While the project never made it to print at Barnes & Noble Press, this recipe still slaps. So I’m sharing it here instead, straight from my house to yours.
Grab your cast iron and crack open something cold. Let’s taco ‘bout what makes San Diego so craveable for the kind of meal that makes you feel at home here.
How to Make Carnitas Tacos at Home
This is my go-to method for braised carnitas. Tender, juicy, and then crisped to perfection under the broiler. Load them into a warm tortilla and top with creamy avocado, pickled onions, cotija, and fresh lime for the ultimate taco.
Grilled Street Corn with Cotija & Lime
SoCal-style elote is a San Diego staple. Charred street corn with a creamy lime dressing and smoky paprika makes the perfect side for tacos, or holds its own as a star ingredient in Southwestern salads and savory casseroles. It’s seriously hard to stop eating.
Chorizo Cheese Curds for the Win
These chorizo-smothered cheese curds are the party trick you didn’t know you needed. Served hot in a cast iron with fresh jalapeño and cilantro on top, they hit that perfect balance of spicy, melty, and rich. Just add chips and watch them disappear fast.
The Bottom Line: 🔥 Fire West Coast Flavor
Taco night stays simple with this make-ahead recipe. It delivers rich flavor, easy prep, and crowd-pleasing results. Crisped carnitas, grilled corn, and warm chorizo cheese curds bring everything to the table. It’s easy to make and hard to forget. You’ll want it again the second it’s gone.
Portia Green, REALTOR®
Portia’s clients all have a similar story. Most likely, you met her huddled around a tablet at the dinner table yet she feels like a friend. Her personable nature and easy going approach attract Sellers and Buyers alike, in what can be a stressful and emotionally charged event. A talented REALTOR® with 17 years experience, Portia is just as excited about real estate today as she was with her first transaction. She remains ever-committed to helping her clients find their place in the world and helping busy people navigate this crazy real estate market like a pro.