This Easy Mexican Carne Asada is full of flavor and super simple! Just marinate some beef in zesty lime juice, garlic, and spices, then grill it to juicy perfection.
You can serve it in tacos or with fresh salsa and guacamole. Trust me, every bite is a celebration—just try not to eat it all in one sitting! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Steak: Flank steak or skirt steak are best for carne asada, offering great flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try sirloin. Just remember, the cooking time may vary!
Citrus Juices: Fresh lime and orange juice bring brightness and flavor. If you’re out of oranges, a little extra lime juice can work. Just be cautious as it may be more tart!
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with marination. You can use avocado oil for a higher smoke point or if you prefer a different flavor.
Spices: Cumin and chili powder give a warm kick. If you want to spice things up more, consider adding cayenne or red chili flakes!
Jalapeño: This is optional for a bit of heat. Don’t have any? You can skip it or use a pinch of red pepper flakes instead.
How Do I Get the Steak Just Right on the Grill?
Grilling steak can be tricky, but with a little care, you’ll have it perfect! Here’s how to make sure it comes out tender and juicy:
- Preheat the grill well! Aim for medium-high heat to get good char marks.
- Let the steak rest after marinating, so it gets to room temperature. This helps it cook evenly.
- Grill the steak for 4-6 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer: 130-135°F is perfect for medium rare.
- Allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
- Always slice against the grain for the best texture. Look for the direction of the lines in the meat and cut perpendicular to them.
Easy Mexican Carne Asada
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Corn or flour tortillas, for serving
- Optional garnishes: chopped white onion, chopped cilantro, salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 15 minutes for prep and about 15-20 minutes to grill. Plus, if you can, let the steak marinate for 1 hour to overnight for maximum flavor. So, in total, it’s about 1 hour and 35 minutes, depending on your marinating time. Not too bad for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This zesty marinade is what will make your steak shine!
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. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, try to marinate it for 3-4 hours or even overnight!
3. Heat the Grill:
While your steak is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This is the perfect time to get everything ready for when the steak is done marinating.
4. Grill the Steak:
Once the steak is marinated, take it out and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Grill the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness (medium rare to medium is ideal for carne asada).
5. Let it Rest:
Once grilled, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps retain the juices, making it more flavorful and tender!
6. Slice and Serve:
Thinly slice the steak against the grain for the best texture. Serve with warm tortillas, lime wedges, chopped onions, cilantro, and your favorite salsa. Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade carne asada!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While flank steak and skirt steak are traditional for carne asada, you can also use sirloin or ribeye. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the cut and thickness of the meat!
How Do I Store Leftover Carne Asada?
Store any leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain tenderness.
Can I Marinate the Steak Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the steak overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness. Just be sure not to exceed 24 hours to avoid the meat becoming mushy from the acidity in the marinade.
What Should I Serve with Carne Asada?
Carne asada is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with tortillas, fresh salsa, guacamole, and toppings like chopped onions and cilantro. You can also serve it with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
