Get ready for a taco night like no other with this carne asada! Tender beef marinated in zesty lime and spices brings bold flavors to your plate. It’s perfect for grilling.
As I fire up the grill, I can almost smell the goodness wafting through the air. Pair it with some fresh toppings and you’ve got a party on your plate! 🌮
What I love most is how quick it is to prepare. Just let the meat soak in the marinade, then grill it up for juicy bites. Every bite is a burst of yum, and leftovers are a win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: Both cuts are great for carne asada. If you can’t find these, try sirloin or even chicken for a lighter option. Each has its flavor profile—flank is lean and flavorful, while skirt is a bit fattier and very juicy.
Olive Oil: This gives the marinade richness. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil works well too; it’s neutral and has a high smoke point, making it ideal for grilling.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is a must for that zesty kick! If limes are out of season, you can use lemon juice as a substitute, though it will have a slightly different flavor.
Garlic: Keep the fresh minced garlic; it enhances flavor like nothing else. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder works in a pinch, but fresh is always better for depth!
Seasonings: Cumin and chili powder are key for that traditional taste. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the chili powder or use smoked paprika as a nice alternative for a less spicy but still flavorful profile.
How Do I Marinate the Steak for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is crucial for building flavor and tenderness in carne asada. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Whisk all marinade ingredients thoroughly in a bowl to ensure even distribution.
- Place the steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour in the marinade, and seal it tightly to eliminate air pockets.
- For the best flavor, marinate for at least one hour, but overnight is recommended; it allows the flavors to fully infuse into the meat.
- Remember to drain excess marinade before grilling to prevent flare-ups.
Taking the time to marinate will reward you with juicy, flavorful carne asada! Enjoy grilling! 🥩
How to Make The Best Carne Asada
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (approximately 2-3 limes)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish)
For Garnish:
- 1/2 medium red onion, diced
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious carne asada recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by at least 1 hour of marinating for the best flavor. Cooking on the grill will only take around 10-12 minutes. In total, you should plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, especially if you let it marinate overnight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This marinade is what makes the carne asada flavorful and tender!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Take the flank or skirt steak and place it in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, making sure it’s well coated on all sides. If using a bag, seal it tightly, and if using a dish, cover it well. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. For that extra pop of flavor, marinate it overnight!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to high heat, around 450°F to 500°F. Getting it nice and hot will help to sear the meat and lock in those delicious juices.
4. Grill the Steak:
After marinating, take the steak out of the fridge and let any excess marinade drip off. Place the steak directly on the hot grill. Grill it for about 4-6 minutes on each side for a medium-rare finish. Adjust the cooking time if you prefer it more or less done.
5. Rest the Meat:
Once your steak is grilled to perfection, take it off the grill and place it onto a cutting board. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This step is essential, as it allows the juices to settle, ensuring every bite is juicy!
6. Slice the Steak:
Using a sharp knife, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This makes it tender and easy to chew, letting all that flavor shine through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Arrange the sliced carne asada on a serving plate. Sprinkle some chopped cilantro and diced red onion over the top for a fresh touch. Don’t forget to serve it with lime wedges on the side for that zesty squeeze!
8. Enjoy:
Serve the carne asada in warm tortillas and add your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or additional cilantro as desired. Enjoy your flavorful, juicy carne asada with friends and family!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank or skirt steak is traditional, you can use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye for a different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the meat, so adjust accordingly!
How Long Should I Marinate the Steak?
For the best flavor, marinate the steak for at least 1 hour, but if you can, let it sit in the marinade overnight. The longer the meat marinates, the more flavorful it will be!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Fresh Limes?
No worries! You can substitute fresh lime juice with bottled lime juice if needed, but use a bit less since it can be more concentrated. About 2 tablespoons should suffice, and you can always add more to taste!
How to Store Leftover Carne Asada?
Store any leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on a skillet or in the microwave. You can also slice it and add it to salads or tacos for a quick meal!
