As the sun sets and the sizzle of meat fills the air, nothing brings people together quite like grilled carne asada. Imagine tender, juicy beef marinated to perfection, each bite bursting with flavors that transport you straight to a festive gathering under a starry sky. The smoky aroma mingles with your favorite summer tunes, creating an atmosphere where laughter is abundant, and everyone is ready for a feast. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
I remember the first time I tried carne asada at a family barbecue. My uncle was the grill master, and I watched in awe as he expertly flipped the marinated steaks. The anticipation grew with every mouthwatering whiff that wafted through the yard. That day was not just about food; it was about family, connection, and savoring every delicious moment.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Grilled carne asada is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or summer gatherings
- With its robust flavor profile, it pairs beautifully with various sides or can stand alone as the star of your meal
- The vibrant presentation will impress your guests while satisfying their taste buds
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for tacos, burritos, or simply served with rice and beans
Every time I serve grilled carne asada at home, my friends’ eyes light up like kids on Christmas morning—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Flank Steak: A great choice for grilling; look for well-marbled cuts for extra juiciness.
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance flavor and keep the steak moist.
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Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the marinade and adds zing.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves deliver an aromatic punch; avoid pre-minced options if possible.
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Cumin: Ground cumin adds warmth and depth; it’s key to achieving an authentic flavor.
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Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a refreshing finish; use it generously for garnish.
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Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce enhances umami flavors; opt for low-sodium if watching salt intake.
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Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds spice; adjust according to your taste preference.
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Salt: Essential for seasoning; use kosher salt for even distribution.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Grilled Carne Asada
Marinate the Beef: Begin by combining olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, soy sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Whisk until blended. Place the flank steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal or cover it tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—overnight yields even better results.
Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Ensure the grates are clean by scraping them down with a grill brush—nobody likes burnt remnants of last week’s cooking!
Grill the Steak: Remove the flank steak from its marinade (pat dry with paper towels) and place it on the hot grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare doneness—look for nice grill marks and that irresistible smoky aroma wafting through your yard.
Let It Rest: Once grilled to perfection, transfer the steak to a cutting board and cover loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing—this step helps retain those flavorful juices that make every bite succulent.
Slice Against the Grain: After resting, slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips—this technique ensures tenderness in every mouthful. Arrange on a platter and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for that gorgeous pop of color.
Serve & Enjoy!: Serve your grilled carne asada hot off the grill with warm tortillas or atop a bed of rice. Don’t forget salsa or guacamole on the side; they complement this dish beautifully!
This grilled carne asada recipe is not just food; it’s an invitation to celebrate life’s moments with those we cherish most!
You Must Know
- Grilled Carne Asada is more than just meat; it’s a fiesta on your plate!
- The aroma of marinated beef sizzling on the grill is irresistible, transforming any gathering into a celebration
- Pair it with fresh toppings for a flavor explosion that dances in your mouth
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the meat for at least two hours, then grill over high heat for perfect searing. This ensures juicy, flavorful Carne Asada that leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional spices for flavors like chipotle or lime zest. Add grilled veggies or fresh salsa to elevate your dish and make it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Carne Asada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain juiciness without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For juicy Carne Asada, let the beef rest after grilling
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness, aiming for medium-rare at 135°F
- Don’t rush the marinating process; the longer, the better!
Sometimes I think my grill has a sixth sense—friends show up unannounced, and suddenly it transforms into a party central with sizzling Carne Asada that has everyone raving!
FAQ
What cut of beef is best for grilled carne asada?
Flank steak or skirt steak are ideal choices due to their tenderness and flavor.
Can I make carne asada without a grill?
Absolutely! You can use a cast-iron skillet or broiler for delicious results.
How do I know when carne asada is done?
Use a meat thermometer; aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare perfection.
Grilled Carne Asada
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Grilled carne asada is a mouthwatering Mexican dish that brings people together, perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. This recipe features tender flank steak marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, garlic, and spices, grilled to perfection, and served with fresh cilantro. Each bite is packed with flavor and pairs beautifully with warm tortillas or a side of rice. Get ready to impress friends and family alike with this delicious crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs flank steak
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Whisk together. Place the flank steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is best).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Clean the grates with a grill brush.
- Remove the steak from the marinade (pat dry) and place it on the hot grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- Transfer the steak to a cutting board and cover loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Cut the steak into thin strips against the grain and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve warm with tortillas or rice and your choice of salsa or guacamole.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (112g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg