Flavorful Grilled Carne Asada Recipe for Perfect BBQ Nights

Sizzling on the grill, the aroma of grilled carne asada wafts through the air, tempting your taste buds and igniting cravings. The smoky, tender beef rivals your favorite taco truck, promising a flavor explosion that will leave you dreaming of summer barbecues, even in winter. For more inspiration, check out this lunch options recipe.

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Picture this: it’s Saturday evening, and friends gather around the grill, laughter filling the air. The anticipation builds as you prep your carne asada, a recipe passed down from my abuela. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, ensuring everyone leaves with full bellies and happy hearts.

I still remember that time I made grilled carne asada for my friends’ BBQ party; their faces lit up with delight after tasting it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Flank Steak: A good cut for grilling; aim for about 2 pounds to serve four hungry friends. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

• Fresh Lime Juice: Always use fresh limes for that zesty kick; bottled just won’t cut it.

• Garlic Cloves: Use about 4-5 cloves minced; they add depth and richness to the marinade.

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances flavor; feel free to adjust based on your love (or hate) for it.

• Cumin Powder: Adds an earthy warmth; just a teaspoon can transform your marinade into something magical.

• Olive Oil: Use high-quality oil to balance flavors; it helps tenderize the meat too.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning for enhancing all those wonderful flavors.

• Chili Powder: A teaspoon adds a slight kick; adjust according to your spice tolerance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Grilled Carne Asada

Prepare the Marinade: Start by mixing lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin powder, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chili powder in a bowl until blended well.

Tenderize the Steak: Place your flank steak in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the meat ensuring it’s fully coated. Let it marinate for at least one hour or overnight if time allows.

Preheat Your Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). You want that sear!

Grill the Steak: Place the marinated steak on the hot grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side. Look for those lovely char marks and an internal temperature of 135°F (medium-rare) or 145°F (medium).

Rest Before Slicing: Remove from grill and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute—trust me; you’ll thank me later!

Slice and Serve!: Thinly slice against the grain at an angle for maximum tenderness. Serve with warm tortillas, salsa, or enjoy solo with some grilled veggies.

Now you’re ready to impress everyone with your culinary skills!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating your meat for at least two hours to maximize flavor. Preheat your grill to high heat before placing the carne asada on it, ensuring a perfect sear.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the marinade ingredients! Try adding pineapple juice for sweetness or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on medium heat to prevent drying out.

Grilling carne asada reminds me of summer barbecues with friends, where laughter mingles with the delicious smells wafting from the grill. Those moments are unforgettable!

FAQ

What cut of meat is best for Grilled Carne Asada?

Flank steak or skirt steak works best for juicy and flavorful carne asada.

How long should I marinate carne asada?

Marinate for at least two hours, but overnight yields even better flavor.

Can I cook carne asada indoors?

Yes! A grill pan or broiler can replicate the delicious charred flavors well.

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Grilled Carne Asada

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 31 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Grill up some mouthwatering carne asada that brings the fiesta to your table! This simple yet flavorful recipe features tender flank steak marinated in a zesty blend of lime, garlic, and spices. Perfect for tacos or served with grilled veggies, this dish is ideal for gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Experience the joy of summer barbecues year-round with this crowd-pleaser!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds flank steak
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp chili powder

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Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade by mixing lime juice, garlic, cilantro, cumin, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chili powder in a bowl.
2. Tenderize the flank steak by placing it in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour marinade over the steak and coat thoroughly. Marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C).
4. Grill the marinated steak for about 6-8 minutes per side until charred and cooked to an internal temperature of 135°F (medium-rare) or 145°F (medium).
5. Let the steak rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
6. Serve with warm tortillas, salsa, or alongside grilled veggies.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 16 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 5 ounces (142g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added sweetness, consider incorporating pineapple juice into the marinade. Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing chili powder. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.