This carne asada is full of flavor, thanks to juicy steak marinated with citrus and spices. You can grill it to perfection, and it pairs wonderfully with fresh toppings like onions and cilantro!
I love serving it in tacos or on a bed of rice. Seriously, who can resist that delicious smoky taste? Plus, it’s so easy to whip up for a weekend barbecue with friends! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: Both cuts are flavorful and great for grilling. If you can’t find them, try sirloin or ribeye as a substitute. Just remember, the cooking time might vary based on thickness!
Olive Oil: This is great for marinating and cooking, but if you’re looking for an alternative, avocado oil works beautifully too. It has a similar flavor profile and smokes well at high temperatures!
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is the best! If you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice is fine, though it can taste a bit different. Lemon juice can also work if you need a substitute that balances well with the flavors.
Spices: Cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika are key for that authentic flavor. If you’re looking for a bit of heat, feel free to add cayenne pepper to the mix. No dried oregano? Italian seasoning will be a decent switch!
Cilantro: For those who aren’t fans of cilantro’s taste, parsley makes a nice, fresh alternative. It won’t replicate the exact flavor but will still add a nice touch.
How Can I Ensure the Perfect Grill Marks on My Carne Asada?
Getting those beautiful grill marks and a nice char on your carne asada is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill to high heat—this is crucial for achieving that perfect sear.
- Once the grill is hot, avoid moving the steak around too much. Place it down and let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes.
- When it’s time to flip, give it a gentle nudge with tongs. If it sticks, it’s not ready to turn!
- After flipping, you can close the grill lid to help cook the other side evenly.
Letting the steak rest after cooking is just as important. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat tender and flavorful. Enjoy your carne asada with the toppings you love!
Best Carne Asada Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Corn or flour tortillas (for serving)
- Jalapeños (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and another 10-15 minutes for grilling. You’ll want to allow at least 2 hours to marinate the steak, but for the best flavor, marinate it overnight. So, plan for a little time ahead, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. This tasty mixture will become the marinade for your steak!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Place the flank or skirt steak in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it’s well coated all over. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it into the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare to Grill:
Once you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to high heat. Take the steak out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. This will help get that perfect char on the grill!
4. Grill the Steak:
Place the steak on the hot grill. Grill it for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your preferred doneness. For an accurate reading, you can use a meat thermometer—aim for 130°F for medium-rare.
5. Let It Rest:
After grilling, take the steak off the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the juices to stay inside the meat, making it juicy and delicious!
6. Slice the Carne Asada:
Once the steak has rested, slice it against the grain into thin strips. This way, you’ll have tender, bite-sized pieces ready to serve!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your carne asada with chopped cilantro, red onion, and lime wedges for a fresh touch. Serve it alongside warm tortillas and jalapeños if you like a little heat. Enjoy your tasty carne asada!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for Carne Asada?
Absolutely! While flank and skirt steak are traditional, you can use sirloin, ribeye, or even chicken for a variation. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the meat.
How Long Should I Marinate the Steak?
The steak can be marinated for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, aim for 6 to 12 hours. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will still provide good flavor, though longer is better!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Carne Asada?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meat and warm it gently in a skillet over low heat. This helps retain moisture and flavor.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance! Store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. This way, you’ll have it ready to go whenever you decide to make carne asada!
