Grilled Carne Asada

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 15

Marinating Time: 30

Total Time: 55

Servings: people

Calories: 79kcal

Author: Platings and Pairings

This Grilled Carne Asada transforms a budget-friendly flank steak into a mouthwatering dish, thanks to a vibrant citrus and spice marinade that delivers bold, authentic Mexican flavors. Ready to grill in just 10 minutes, it's your ticket to a memorable taco Tuesday or an impressive dinner for guests.

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Equipment

Grill or grill pan

Ingredients

1 flank steak 2-3 pounds

Marinade

1/4 cup fresh lime juice from 4 large limes
¼ cup fresh orange juice from 1 large orange
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
¼ cup cilantro
2 green onions sliced
2 cloves garlic
1 Tablespoon brown sugar
1 Tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

Add all marinade ingredients to a blender or food processor, and process until smooth.
Place the steak in a resealable freezer bag or shallow dish, and pour in the marinade. Make sure the steak is evenly coated. Seal the bag, or cover the dish and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, up to overnight.
Preheat a grill or grill pan to high heat.
Once hot, add the steak to the grill and cook the steak for 3-5 minutes per side for medium rare (132 degrees). Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 5 for minutes. Slice against the grain and serve.

Notes

Storing

Leftover grilled carne asada can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat it in a pan over medium-low heat with some butter, or in the microwave.
If you want to freeze your cooked flank steak strips, make sure to store it properly to prevent it from drying out. Transfer the cool strips of steak with juices to a freezer bag, removing all air, or in a shallow, airtight container, and freeze for 2-3 months.
Once thawed and reheated, use your previously frozen cooked flank steak for quick meals like stir-fries, rice bowls, salads, tacos, or soups, where it can be incorporated with sauces and other moist ingredients.

Tips and tricks

Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes to tenderize it. For maximum flavor, aim for up to 24 hours.
An indoor grill pan heated to high is an excellent alternative if you can't use an outdoor grill.
Make extra marinade for a glaze. Simmer it in a saucepan for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened, then brush it on the cooked steak or serve on the side. Never use the raw meat marinade as a sauce.
Ensure your grill or pan is very hot before adding the steak so that it gets a proper sear and crust without steaming.
Use a Thermometer. Timing is a good guideline, but thickness of flank steak varies. Using an instant-read thermometer is the only sure way to nail your desired doneness. Pull it off the grill at 125-130°F for medium-rare (it will rise to 130-135°F while resting).
Resting the cooked steak is non-negotiable as it lets the juices redistribute.
Slicing flank steak against the grain shortens its long, tough muscle fibers, making each bite significantly more tender. You'll see long muscle fibers running lengthwise - cut perpendicular to them.

Variations

Type of steak - If you can’t source flank steak, skirt steak is a great alternative.
Extra kick of heat - For an extra spicy kick, increase the chili powder or add 1-2 teaspoons of chipotle powder, cayenne pepper, or minced jalapeño to the marinade.
Citrus swaps - Experiment with different citrus combinations. Try grapefruit juice instead of orange, or add a splash of pineapple juice for sweetness.
Smoky flavor - For a deeper smokiness, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika and add a teaspoon of liquid smoke.
Post-grill sauce - Feel free to serve the steak with a sauce after grilling for added decadence, such as Feel free to serve the steak with a sauce after grilling for added decadence, such as chimichurri, salsa verde, or your favorite hot sauce. You can also check out these 15+ Sauces for Flank Steak!

Nutrition