This carne asada is juicy and bursting with flavor! With simple ingredients like flank steak, lime juice, and spices, it’s perfect for tacos or burritos.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: These cuts are the stars of carne asada! They have a great texture and absorb marinades well. If you’re looking for alternatives, try sirloin or ribeye, but remember they might taste a bit different.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the marinade penetrate the meat. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or vegetable oil can work just as well.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish. If limes aren’t available, try lemon juice, though it’s a bit less tart.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for flavor. In a pinch, you can use garlic powder (about 1/8 tsp per clove), but fresh is always preferred.
Cilantro: It adds a fresh flavor that is essential in this dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good substitute, though it won’t have the same taste.
Jalapeño: For those who enjoy heat but prefer milder flavors, omit it or use a bell pepper instead, which will add crunch without spice.
How Do I Properly Marinade the Meat for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is a key step to infuse flavor into the meat. When done correctly, your carne asada will be deliciously seasoned! Follow these simple steps:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk well.
- Submerge your steak in the marinade, ensuring it’s well coated. Use a resealable bag for easy marinating and flipping.
- Marinate in the refrigerator. If you can, let it sit overnight for deeper flavor.
Don’t forget to let the excess marinade drip off before grilling, as too much can cause flare-ups on the grill!
The Best Carne Asada
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
For Garnish and Serving:
- Red onion, diced
- Additional fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Corn tortillas
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep, plus at least 2 hours for marinating—overnight is best for flavor! Once grilled, it will take about 15 minutes to cook and rest before serving. So, plan for a total of about 2 hours and 30 minutes or more depending on marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, jalapeño (if using), cumin, black pepper, salt, oregano, and paprika. This delicious marinade will give your carne asada amazing flavor!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Place the flank or skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, making sure it’s well-coated on all sides. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better!
3. Preheat and Grill the Steak:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Take the steak out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill the steak for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (about 145°F for medium-rare).
4. Rest and Slice:
Once grilled, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps keep the meat juicy. After resting, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips for the best texture.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your carne asada on a platter garnished with diced red onion and additional chopped cilantro. Add lime wedges and warm corn tortillas on the side—perfect for making delicious tacos or enjoying as is! Enjoy your flavorful feast!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for Carne Asada?
Absolutely! While flank and skirt steak are traditional, you can use other cuts like ribeye or sirloin. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the steak, so adjust accordingly and keep an eye on the internal temperature.
How Long Can I Marinate the Steak?
You can marinate the steak for up to 24 hours for the best flavor. If you marinate it longer, be cautious, as highly acidic marinades can start to break down the meat texture, making it mushy after a couple of days.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Jalapeño?
Yes, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can simply omit the jalapeño. You could also substitute it with a little pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of chili powder if you still want a hint of heat without the actual pepper.
What Are the Best Ways to Store Leftover Carne Asada?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave. For best results, slice the steak before reheating to ensure even warming and keep the juices intact!
