This Easy Mexican Carne Asada is packed with flavor! Just marinate steak with zesty lime, garlic, and spices, then grill it to perfection. It’s simple and oh-so-tasty!
Trust me, the smell of this steak sizzling on the grill is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. I love serving it with warm tortillas and fresh salsa. Perfect combo! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: Both cuts are great choices for carne asada. If you can’t find these, try sirloin or ribeye for similar flavor and tenderness.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is key for that zesty flavor! If you’re out of limes, lemon juice works as a substitute, though it alters the taste a bit.
Orange Juice: Adds a hint of sweetness. If you don’t have orange juice on hand, pineapple juice can also give a tasty twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but I recommend fresh for more depth.
Cilantro: A fresh herb that brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley or omit it entirely. Your choice!
What’s the Best Way to Grill the Steak?
Grilling can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right! The key is to ensure the grill is hot before you start cooking.
- Preheat your grill for at least 10-15 minutes. A hot grill gives those sear marks and seals in juices.
- Make sure to let the steak sit at room temperature before grilling. This helps it cook evenly.
- Always let it rest after grilling! This rest period keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.
Easy Mexican Carne Asada Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Warm corn or flour tortillas, for serving
- Chopped white onions and fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus at least 1 hour for marinating the steak (longer for best flavor). The cooking time is around 10 minutes, so you’ll have delicious carne asada ready in about 1 hour and 25 minutes total, plus any time allowed for marinating. Enjoy the process!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. The marinade should be aromatic and flavorful.
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 is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, letting it sit for 4-6 hours will deepen the flavor. Just be careful not to marinate for more than 12 hours!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the steak is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat. This helps to ensure that the steak gets a beautifully charred exterior.
4. Cook the Steak:
Once the grill is hot, remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare (aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F/54°C). If you prefer it cooked more, adjust the time accordingly. Look for those lovely grill marks!
5. Rest and Slice:
Once done, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
6. Serve:
Arrange the sliced carne asada on a serving platter. Add lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the steak. Serve with warm tortillas, and feel free to top with chopped onions and cilantro for an authentic touch. Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Mexican Carne Asada!
FAQ for Easy Mexican Carne Asada
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat for Carne Asada?
Absolutely! Flank and skirt steak are traditional choices, but you can also use sirloin, ribeye, or even chicken for a variation. Just keep in mind that different cuts may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
How Long Should I Marinate the Steak?
For the best flavor, marinate the steak for at least 1 hour, but 4-6 hours is ideal. Avoid marinating for more than 12 hours to keep the meat tender; too long can change the texture.
What Can I Serve with Carne Asada?
Carne asada is delicious served with warm tortillas and toppings like chopped onions, cilantro, salsa, or guacamole. For a complete meal, consider side dishes like Mexican rice, refried beans, or grilled veggies!
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 gently on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring not to overcook it to maintain tenderness.
