There’s nothing quite like the tantalizing aroma of carne asada grilling to lift your spirits and evoke memories of summer barbecues. The sound of sizzling meat mingling with the fresh scent of cilantro and citrus has a way of making any meal feel like a celebration. After a long week of mundane dinners, I decided it was time to bring some excitement back into my kitchen with a dish that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying.
While visiting a local farmer’s market, I discovered the gorgeous ingredients that would come together to create this perfect carne asada. The vibrant oranges, fresh cilantro, and fiery jalapeños called out to me, promising a flavor explosion on my plate. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity – marinate your skirt steak, fire up the grill, and in just a few minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering dinner ready to impress family and friends. Let’s dive into the delightful world of carne asada, where flavor meets ease, and every bite brings joy!
Why is Carne Asada a Must-Try Dish?
Irresistible flavor: This recipe packs a punch with a vibrant marinade full of citrus, garlic, and spices that creates a bold taste beyond the usual weeknight meals.
Quick and easy: With just a few steps and minimal prep time, you can enjoy this flavorful dish in under three hours.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this carne asada guarantees compliments from friends and family alike, making you the star of your next barbecue.
Versatile meal: Pair it with tacos, salads, or grilled veggies for a meal that caters to everyone’s preferences.
For more easy meal ideas, don’t forget to check out easy grilled recipes!
Carne Asada Ingredients
• Get ready to delight your taste buds!
For the Marinade
- Fresh cilantro – A vibrant herb that adds refreshing flavor to the carne asada.
- Olive oil – Helps carry the flavors and keeps the meat juicy during grilling.
- Orange juice – Adds a sweet citrus note that balances the spices beautifully.
- Lime juice – Enhances the overall freshness with a zesty kick.
- Ancho chili powder – Brings a mild heat and smoky depth that’s essential for true carne asada.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors and helps tenderize the meat.
- Ground cumin – Infuses an earthy, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices.
- Ground black pepper – Adds a subtle heat and complexity to the marinade.
- Garlic – Provides aromatic flair and rich flavor to the marinade.
- Jalapeno – Introduces a spicy kick; feel free to adjust based on heat preference.
For the Steak
- Skirt steak – This cut is perfect for carne asada, offering a tender, beefy flavor when cooked correctly. Trim excess fat for the best results.
With these carne asada ingredients at your fingertips, you’re ready to impress everyone at your table!
How to Make Carne Asada
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Whisk together all marinade ingredients, except for the steak, in a medium bowl. This blend of cilantro, citrus, and spices will create the perfect flavor infusion for your skirt steak.
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Pour the marinade into a large baking dish or freezer bag. Add the steak, turning or shaking to coat it well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 8 hours, turning occasionally for maximum flavor.
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Remove the steak from the marinade when you’re ready to cook and discard any leftover marinade. Let the steak sit at room temperature while heating the grill for even cooking.
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Preheat the grill to high heat, aiming for 450°F-500°F. A hot grill will produce that delicious sear and char, enhancing the meat’s natural flavors.
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Grill the steak for 4 to 6 minutes on each side for medium-rare, reaching an internal temperature of 125°F-130°F or adjust to your desired doneness. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
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Rest the steak for 5 minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, thinly slice against the grain before serving to ensure each bite is tender.
Optional: Serve with warm tortillas and fresh salsa for an authentic touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Carne Asada?
Transform your carne asada into a festive feast with delightful pairings that elevate every bite. Here are some ideas that complement this flavorful dish perfectly.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: A fragrant, zesty rice that adds refreshing brightness, making the meal feel light and satisfying.
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Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies charred to perfection bring a smoky flavor that enhances the meat’s savory notes.
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Fresh Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime and cilantro provides a rich contrast to the juicy carne asada, perfect for topping or dipping.
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Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa, bright with tomatoes and lime, provides a crunchy texture that beautifully balances the tender meat. Serve it right alongside your carne asada!
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Black Beans: A hearty and nutritious side dish, their earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the grill-finished skirt steak.
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Corn Tortillas: Warm, soft tortillas are perfect for wrapping slices of carne asada, creating tasty bites that burst with flavor.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine offers a crisp finish, enhancing the overall dining experience with every sip.
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Flan: Conclude your meal with this traditional dessert. The smooth, creamy texture and caramel topping provide a sweet ending that’s hard to resist.
Make Ahead Options
This carne asada recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors with minimal weeknight stress! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the steak is infused with all those vibrant flavors. Simply whisk together all the marinade ingredients, pour it over the steak in a baking dish or freezer bag, and refrigerate. For the best results, turn the steak occasionally during the marinating period. When you’re ready to grill, remove the steak from the marinade and let it come to room temperature before cooking for even doneness. This way, your carne asada will be just as delicious and ready to impress, saving you time and effort on busy evenings!
Carne Asada Variations
Feel free to put a personal twist on this carne asada and make it your own unique dish!
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Spicy Kick: Add more minced jalapeño or a diced serrano pepper for a fiery twist that’ll please heat lovers.
Spice it up! The extra heat brings a delicious challenge to your taste buds, elevating your dish to new levels. -
Citrus Twist: Substitute the orange juice with pineapple or lemon juice for a refreshing and fruity flavor.
Try it out! Each juice brings its unique sweetness, making every bite a delightful surprise. -
Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or basil alongside cilantro for an aromatic flavor boost.
Adding herbs can elevate the freshness of your carne asada, creating a vibrant taste you’ll adore. -
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder into the marinade for a delightful smoky depth.
This twist will transport you to a smoky, outdoor grill experience even when cooking indoors! -
Marinade Magic: Try marinating your steak overnight for even more intense flavor – it’s worth the wait!
Let the flavors mingle longer, and you’ll be rewarded with a more flavorful and tender steak. -
Vegetarian Option: Use portobello mushrooms in place of steak for a hearty, savory alternative for your plant-based friends.
Grill them to perfection, and you’ll have a dish that’s just as satisfying and full of flavor. -
Tropical Flair: Add diced mango or papaya to the marinade for a fruity touch and a hint of sweetness.
This fruity addition will create a complex flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory! -
Garnish Adventure: Top the grilled carne asada with pickled onions or fresh avocado for added flavor and texture.
These fresh toppings bring a delightful crunch and creaminess that rounds out the dish beautifully.
Expert Tips for Carne Asada
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Perfect Marinade Time: Marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, but letting it sit overnight will enhance the flavors even more.
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Let It Rest: After grilling, resting your carne asada for 5 minutes is crucial for juicy, tender slices. Don’t skip this step!
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Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; 125°F-130°F for medium-rare is ideal. This prevents overcooking!
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Slicing Technique: Always slice against the grain to maximize tenderness. This simple trick makes a world of difference in every bite!
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Customize Heat: Adjust the jalapeño quantity based on your heat preference. You can also remove the seeds for a milder flavor in the carne asada.
How to Store and Freeze Carne Asada
Fridge: Keep leftover carne asada in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its juicy flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap carne asada tightly in foil or place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing taste.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the carne asada in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture.
Thawing: Always thaw frozen carne asada in the fridge overnight for best results before reheating for a delicious meal any time!
Carne Asada Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right steak for carne asada?
Absolutely! Skirt steak is the best choice for carne asada due to its flavor and tenderness. When selecting, look for a cut with a bright red color and minimal fat. Avoid any that have dark spots or are excessively marbled, as these may not grill as well.
What is the best way to store leftover carne asada?
Very simple! Store leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing it up to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze carne asada?
Yes, you can! To freeze carne asada, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for optimal flavor and texture.
What should I do if my carne asada turns out tough?
If your carne asada is tough, it may not have been marinated long enough or sliced against the grain. For tougher cuts in the future, consider extending the marination time to 8 hours or overnight. When serving, always slice against the grain, which means cutting perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers – this makes a significant difference in tenderness!
Can I adjust the spice level for my carne asada?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of jalapeño or remove the seeds before mincing. For more heat, you can add more jalapeño or even include a dash of cayenne pepper in the marinade. It’s all about making it your own!
Is carne asada safe for my dog to eat?
While carne asada can be a tasty treat for dogs, omit the seasoning, particularly salt and garlic, as these can be harmful to them. Serve plain, cooked meat in small pieces as an occasional treat. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure!
Feel free to refer back if you need more information or guidance. Happy cooking!
Savor the Flavor: Easy Carne Asada That Impresses Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together all marinade ingredients, except for the steak, in a medium bowl.
- Pour the marinade into a large baking dish or freezer bag. Add the steak, turning or shaking to coat it well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 8 hours.
- Remove the steak from the marinade when you're ready to cook and discard any leftover marinade.
- Let the steak sit at room temperature while heating the grill.
- Preheat the grill to high heat, aiming for 450°F-500°F.
- Grill the steak for 4 to 6 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- Rest the steak for 5 minutes after grilling, then thinly slice against the grain before serving.