The savory aroma of carne asada sizzling on the grill always brings me back to vibrant summer evenings, where laughter mingles with the smoky notes of freshly charred meat. This recipe, featuring flank steak marinated in a zesty blend of lime, garlic, and spices, is my go-to for transforming any gathering into a fiesta. Whether you’re assembling delicious tacos for a busy weeknight or crafting a show-stopping burrito bowl, this carne asada delivers flavor and versatility that even fast food can’t compete with.
What I love most about this dish is its simplicity—each bite is filled with juicy, tender meat that speaks to the heart of traditional Mexican cuisine. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for everyone at your table. Join me as we explore how to make the ultimate carne asada that will have friends and family coming back for seconds!
Why is Carne Asada a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with savory depth from the zesty marinade, delivering an authentic Mexican experience right at home.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or a juicy standalone feast; it adapts to any occasion effortlessly.
Quick Prep: With simple steps, you can have tender, grilled steak ready in no time, turning meals around in just a few hours.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether hosting a large gathering or a cozy dinner, carne asada leaves everyone satisfied and raving for more!
For another twist, consider adding different marinades for unique flavors—check our tips on enhancing your dish to find your perfect match.
Carne Asada Ingredients
• Prepare for an unforgettable meal with these key carne asada ingredients.
For the Marinade
- Flank Steak – The star of the show, offering tender, juicy meat; can also replace with skirt steak or sirloin if desired.
- Olive Oil – Adds richness and locks in moisture for a perfect marinade.
- Limes (3, juiced) – Provides essential acidity that helps tenderize this carne asada. You’ll need about 6 tablespoons of juice.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Infuses savory flavor and aromatic notes into your marinade.
- Fresh Cilantro (½ cup, chopped) – Brings a fresh pop of flavor; if you’re not a fan of cilantro, it can easily be omitted.
- Cumin Powder (1 teaspoon) – Contributes a warm, earthy taste that’s crucial for authentic flavor.
- Chili Powder (½ teaspoon) – Adds a subtle kick and enhances the color of the marinade.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences to make it just right.
How to Make Carne Asada
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Whisk Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended, creating a zesty marinade that infuses flavor.
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Marinate Steak: Place the flank steak in a non-reactive dish. Pour the marinade evenly over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 4 hours—no longer than 4 hours to prevent mushiness from the lime.
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Preheat Grill: While the steak marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high. A well-heated grill ensures a delightful char forms on the meat, locking in juices.
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Grill Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and shake off excess. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side until a beautiful char develops and it achieves medium-rare doneness (about 135°F).
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Rest and Slice: Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Slice against the grain to ensure every piece remains tender. Optionally, chop the steak into smaller pieces for tacos or burrito bowls.
Optional: Serve with fresh tortillas, diced onions, and avocado for a delicious taco night!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These carne asada steaks are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can make the zesty marinade up to 24 hours in advance; simply whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, marinate the flank steak for up to 4 hours before grilling; this not only enhances flavor but ensures tenderness as well. When it’s time to cook, just grill the marinated steak, resting it for 5 minutes before slicing. With these make ahead options, you’ll have a delicious carne asada ready to impress with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Carne Asada?
Bring your meal to life with the perfect accompaniments that enhance your carne asada experience.
- Fresh Corn Tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas are ideal for wrapping around juicy carne asada, creating a flavor-packed bite that’s simply irresistible.
- Pico de Gallo: This zesty salsa made with fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness and crunch, elevating your taco game.
- Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole is the perfect contrast to the smoky steak, plus it’s an all-time favorite that nobody can resist.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob smeared with mayo, cheese, and chili powder brings a delightful sweetness and creaminess to balance the savory meat.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime offers a refreshing touch and absorbs the bold flavors of the carne asada.
- Black Beans: Serve simple seasoned black beans alongside your dish for a hearty, protein-rich complement that pairs beautifully.
- Pickled Red Onions: Their tangy crunch cuts through the richness of the carne asada, adding brightness and color to your plate.
- Margaritas: Refreshing, citrusy margaritas enhance the festive spirit of your meal, making them a perfect pairing with your flavorful carne asada.
- Churros: For dessert, consider serving crispy, sugary churros alongside chocolate sauce for dipping—an indulgent way to end your meal!
Expert Tips for Carne Asada
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Marinade Timing: Don’t marinate for more than 4 hours; the lime juice can overly tenderize the meat, making it mushy. Aim for 1-3 hours for the best flavor.
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Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high; this allows for a nice sear, which locks in moisture and flavor for the carne asada.
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Slice Technique: Always slice against the grain after resting; this important step ensures that the meat remains tender and easy to chew.
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Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding orange juice or beer to the marinade for a unique twist. Different spices can also elevate your carne asada’s flavor profile.
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Serving Style: Carne asada shines in various meals—try it in tacos, burrito bowls, or alongside your favorite sides for a versatile dining experience.
Carne Asada Variations
Dive into the joy of customizing your carne asada with delicious and creative twists to suit your taste and dietary needs.
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Different Proteins: Swap flank steak with skirt steak, sirloin, or chicken for a unique protein choice. Each option brings its own flavor and texture to the dish.
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Beer-Infused: Marinate the steak with a splash of your favorite beer for a rich, malty sweetness. This adds a new dimension, perfect for beer lovers!
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Citrus Delight: Mix in orange juice alongside lime for a sweeter, more complex citrus flavor. The added sweetness complements the savory marinade beautifully.
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Miso Magic: Incorporate a tablespoon of miso paste to the marinade for an umami boost that deepens the flavor profile. This twist is particularly enticing for those who crave rich, savory notes.
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Heat It Up: Adjust spice levels by using smoked paprika or adding fresh jalapeños to the marinade. Tailor the heat to fit your preference, whether you like mild or fiery!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with swapping cilantro for fresh parsley or adding fresh oregano for a different herbaceous flair. Each herb brings a unique taste that can change the whole dish.
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Savory Smoke: Use a hint of liquid smoke in the marinade for an irresistible smoky flavor without needing a charcoal grill. Perfect for achieving that grilled essence indoors.
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Sweet Twist: For a sweeter version, add a tablespoon of honey or agave syrup to the marinade. This not only enhances flavor but also caramelizes beautifully while grilling.
How to Store and Freeze Carne Asada
Fridge: Store leftover carne asada in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s well-sealed to retain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the carne asada tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen carne asada overnight in the fridge before reheating. Use a skillet over medium heat to gently warm slices for best results.
Slicing Tip: Consider slicing the carne asada before storing for easier reheating and serving later.
Carne Asada Recipe FAQs
What type of flank steak should I use for carne asada?
Absolutely! For carne asada, I recommend using flank steak for its tenderness and flavor. However, you can also substitute it with skirt steak or sirloin if that’s what you have on hand. Each option offers a slightly different texture but still delivers a delicious result.
How long can I store leftover carne asada?
You can store leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain its juiciness and flavor, ensure the container is well-sealed. I often slice the steak before storing to make reheating easier later on!
Can I freeze carne asada? How do I do that?
Yes, you can freeze carne asada! Here’s how: Wrap the cooled steak tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets, then wrap it again in aluminum foil for extra protection. Freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the carne asada in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How do I reheat carne asada without drying it out?
To reheat carne asada without losing moisture, place the slices in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cover with a lid to trap steam and warmth, allowing the meat to heat evenly for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method helps retain tenderness while avoiding dry edges.
Is carne asada safe for my pet to consume?
While carne asada can be a flavorful treat for pets, it’s best to be cautious. Avoid giving your pet any seasoned meat, especially with spices like garlic, which can be harmful to dogs. Opt for plain, unseasoned meat in small portions as an occasional treat instead!
Can I adjust the spiciness of the marinade for carne asada?
Very! You can easily customize the spice level of your carne asada marinade. To tone it down, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it entirely. For an extra kick, add fresh jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Customize it to suit your taste and enjoy!
Savor Juicy Carne Asada with Irresistible Zesty Marinade
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended, creating a zesty marinade.
- Place the flank steak in a non-reactive dish. Pour the marinade evenly over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 4 hours.
- While the steak marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and shake off excess. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side until medium-rare.
- Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Slice against the grain.