This carne asada is a winner with its juicy steak marinated in zesty lime and flavorful spices. It’s easy to make and perfect for taco night or a backyard BBQ!
Seriously, who can resist that mouthwatering smell? I love tossing the grilled meat in tortillas with fresh cilantro and onions. It feels like a fiesta in every bite! 🌮🎉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: Both cuts are tender and great for grilling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with chicken breast or tofu, but adjust marinating time accordingly.
Lime Juice: Fresh is best! If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can work too, but it will change the flavor a bit. I personally love that tangy kick of lime!
Orange Juice: Instead of fresh juice, you can use bottled orange juice if you’re in a pinch. I prefer fresh juice for its bright flavor.
Cilantro: For those who aren’t fans of cilantro, parsley is a good nutty alternative. You could skip it altogether or try a little basil for a twist.
Spices: If you don’t have chili powder, paprika works in a pinch, but add some heat with a bit of cayenne. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
How Do I Marinate the Steak for Best Flavor?
Marinating is key for flavorful carne asada! The longer, the better. Here are some tips:
- Mix your marinade well in a bowl. Ensure all ingredients blend together, as citrus helps tenderize the meat.
- Use a resealable bag or shallow dish for even coating. Massage the marinade into the steak for deeper flavor.
- Let it marinate at least 2 hours, but overnight is best. You’ll be amazed at the difference!
- Don’t forget to let any excess marinade drip off before grilling to avoid flare-ups and ensure even cooking.
The Best Carne Asada
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4 limes)
- 1/4 cup orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
For Serving:
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Tortillas (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and should marinate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for the best flavor). The grilling will take around 10–12 minutes, plus a 10-minute resting time. All in all, you can have delicious carne asada ready in about 2 hours and 45 minutes, with most of that time hands-off!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, chili powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and chopped cilantro. Stir well until everything is nicely blended.
2. Marinate the Steak:
Take your flank or skirt steak and place it in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly, then refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you can, leave it overnight. The longer, the better the flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While your steak is marinating, heat your grill or grill pan to high. It’s important to get it nice and hot! Grease it lightly to keep the steak from sticking.
4. Grill the Steak:
After marinating, take the steak out and let any excess marinade drip off. Grill the steak for about 4–5 minutes on each side. You want it to get nice grill marks and cook to your preferred doneness (medium-rare is usually about 130°F or 54°C).
5. Rest the Steak:
Once the steak is done, move it to a cutting board. Let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps keep the juices in and makes for a juicier bite!
6. Slice and Serve:
Using a sharp knife, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Serve it warm and garnish with chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and lime wedges. Don’t forget the warm tortillas to make delicious tacos! Enjoy your homemade carne asada!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank or skirt steak are traditional choices for carne asada, you can also use cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on thickness and fat content, so adjust accordingly for your preferred doneness!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can definitely marinate the steak the night before to deepen the flavors! Just remember to keep it in the fridge. If you’re looking to grill the steak later in the week, you can also freeze the marinated steak. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Carne Asada?
Store any leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on a skillet over low heat, or microwave it briefly. To keep it juicy, you might add a splash of water or broth while reheating.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder carne asada, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether. For more heat, you could add diced jalapeños to the marinade or serve with a spicy salsa on the side. Adjust according to your taste!
