Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the vibrant flavors of Carne Asada, a beloved Mexican dish that transforms simple flank steak into a culinary masterpiece! This quick and easy recipe, ready in just 25 minutes, will have you grilling like a pro and impressing your family and friends with its zesty marinade and perfectly seared meat. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or just craving something delicious, this Carne Asada is your ticket to a fiesta on a plate. Dive into our recipe and discover the secrets to achieving that mouthwatering taste that keeps everyone coming back for more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the flank steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
- Place the flank steak in the marinade, turning to coat both sides evenly. Cover and let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
- Preheat a grill or heavy cast-iron skillet to high heat. The cooking surface should be very hot to create a nice sear and develop a flavorful crust.
- Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
- Grill or cook the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time to your preferred doneness.
- Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips, which helps ensure tenderness.
- Serve immediately with warm tortillas, salsa, guacamole, or your favorite Mexican side dishes.
Tips
- Room Temperature is Key: Always allow your flank steak to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This step ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, let your steak marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if you have the time, marinating for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator will intensify the flavors even more.
- Get Your Grill Hot: Preheat your grill or cast-iron skillet to high heat. A hot cooking surface is crucial for creating a delicious crust on your steak.
- Dry Before Cooking: After marinating, pat your steak dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents steaming.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Grill or cook your steak for 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred level of doneness.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the steak to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This step is essential for keeping the juices locked in, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
- Slice Against the Grain: When it’s time to serve, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This technique enhances tenderness and makes for a more enjoyable eating experience.
- Serve with Style: Pair your Carne Asada with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, guacamole, or any of your favorite Mexican sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 208kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
