Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Carne Asada is a flavorful, juicy, and perfectly marinated beef dish that’s great for grilling or searing. The bold combination of lime juice, garlic, jalapeño, cumin, and cilantro brings out the natural richness of the steak, making it tender and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making tacos, burritos, or enjoying it on its own with a side of rice or veggies, this Carne Asada is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, and the marinade does all the work to infuse the meat with delicious taste.

Ingredients

• 6 tbsp Olive oil
• 6 tbsp Lime juice
• 1 medium Jalapeño (minced)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup Fresh cilantro (chopped finely)
• 1 tsp Cumin
• 1 1/2 tsp Sea salt
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper
• 2 lb Flank steak (or skirt steak)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced jalapeño, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, sea salt, and black pepper.
2. Place the flank steak (or skirt steak) into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it’s well coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally 4-6 hours. For maximum flavor, marinate overnight.
4. Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.
5. Grill the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steak and your preferred doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130°F.
6. Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
7. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips, and serve immediately. Enjoy with tortillas, rice, beans, or a fresh salsa!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4-6 people. Prep time is around 10 minutes (plus marination time), and cooking time is approximately 10-12 minutes, depending on your steak thickness and desired doneness.

Variations

• Heat Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño to suit your spice preference. For a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapeño or use a milder chili pepper.
• Marinade Boost: For an extra tangy flavor, add a tablespoon of orange juice or vinegar to the marinade.
• Smoky Flavor: Try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade for a smoky depth.
• Grill or Skillet: If you don’t have a grill, you can sear the steak in a hot skillet with a little oil for a similar effect.
• Other Cuts of Meat: Skirt steak is traditionally used for carne asada, but other cuts like ribeye or sirloin will work just as well.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Carne Asada can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the steak into strips and warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also use it in tacos, burritos, or salads for a quick and delicious meal.

FAQs

Can I marinate the steak for longer than 6 hours?

Yes, you can marinate the steak overnight or up to 24 hours for an even more flavorful result. Just be sure not to marinate for too long, as the acid from the lime juice can begin to break down the meat too much.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

While flank and skirt steak are traditional, you can use other cuts such as ribeye, sirloin, or even chuck steak. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness and type of meat.

How do I know when the steak is done?

The best way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be 130°F; for medium, aim for 140°F. Adjust the cooking time depending on your preference for doneness.

Can I cook this in a skillet instead of grilling?

Yes, you can cook Carne Asada in a hot skillet or on a griddle. Just make sure to use high heat and cook the steak for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Can I make Carne Asada ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the steak ahead of time and grill or cook it just before serving. You can also store leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat them as needed.

Is Carne Asada gluten-free?

Yes, Carne Asada is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Just make sure the marinade ingredients are gluten-free.

What should I serve with Carne Asada?

Carne Asada is delicious served with rice, beans, grilled vegetables, or in tacos, burritos, or fajitas. You can also serve it with a fresh salsa, guacamole, or a side salad.

How do I slice Carne Asada?

For the best texture, always slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This helps to make the meat more tender and easier to chew.

Can I freeze Carne Asada?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated steak for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container or freezer bag before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Conclusion

Carne Asada is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its zesty marinade of lime, garlic, cumin, and cilantro, it’s a versatile and delicious way to enjoy grilled steak. Whether you’re serving it with tortillas, over rice, or as a topping for salads, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and juicy tenderness. Get ready for a savory experience that will have everyone coming back for more!

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