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Juicy, sliced carne asada with a charred crust, garnished with red chili peppers on a wooden cutting board.
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5 from 1 vote

Zesty Grilled Carne Asada Recipe

Fire up the grill and savor the bold, zesty flavors of perfectly marinated Carne Asada – a true taste of Mexico in every bite!
Prep Time15 minutes
Active Time14 minutes
Marinating Time1 hour
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: authentic carne asada, Authentic Mexican food, best carne asada recipe, carne asada recipe, grilled carne asada, homemade carne asada, how to make carne asada, Mexican Cuisine
Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 344kcal
Author: Isabel Thompson

Materials

  • 2 pounds skirt steak trimmed of excess fat
  • For the Marinade:
  • 2 lbs skirt steak trimmed of excess fat
  • 1 jalapeño finely minced (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • Juice of 1 orange
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  • In a large glass bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients until well combined.
  • Marinate the Steak:
  • Place the skirt steak in the marinade, ensuring it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours for deeper flavor. Avoid over-marinating to prevent breaking down the meat.
  • Grill to Perfection:
  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steak for 7-10 minutes per side, flipping once for even cooking. For a perfect medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F.
  • Rest and Serve:
  • Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve with your favorite sides or in tacos.

Notes

Tips for Perfect Carne Asada
  • Choose the Right Cut:
    Ask your butcher for "outside skirt steak" for the most tender and flavorful results. Inside skirt steak works as well but may require slightly longer marination.
  • Get the Grill Hot:
    A properly preheated grill ensures a beautifully charred crust without overcooking the interior.
  • Don’t Skip the Resting Time:
    Allowing the meat to rest ensures the juices redistribute for a juicy bite every time.
Flavor Variations
  1. Smoky Twist:
    Add 1 tsp smoked paprika and a touch of chipotle powder to the marinade for a smoky depth of flavor.
  2. Sweet Heat:
    Mix in 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar to balance the tangy citrus with a hint of sweetness.
  3. Herb Infusion:
    Enhance the marinade with chopped oregano or thyme for a fresh herbal note.
  4. Beer Marinade:
    Swap out the lemon juice for ½ cup of a light Mexican beer for added complexity.
Serving Suggestions
  • Serve carne asada slices in warm tortillas with salsa, guacamole, and pickled onions for authentic street-style tacos.
  • Pair with a fresh side salad and grilled veggies for a lighter option.
  • Add to burritos, quesadillas, or rice bowls for a delicious meal prep idea.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
  • Marinate with care: Longer isn't always better; too much time can break down the texture of the meat. Stick to 6-8 hours max.
  • Cut against the grain: Always slice the steak against the grain to achieve the most tender bites.
  • Use a meat thermometer: This ensures you hit the perfect doneness without overcooking.
Enjoy this Zesty Grilled Carne Asada with family and friends for your next cookout or special occasion. Whether it's for Taco Tuesday or a weekend BBQ, this flavorful and juicy steak will be a crowd favorite!