Grilled Carne Asada Tacos

Grilled carne asada tacos are a delicious and satisfying dish made with tender, marinated steak that’s grilled to perfection and served in warm tortillas. Bursting with vibrant flavors, they’re a staple of Mexican-inspired cuisine and a favorite for backyard cookouts or casual dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and Zesty Flavors: The citrus-based marinade infuses the meat with incredible flavor.
• Quick Grilling Time: Once marinated, the steak grills in just minutes.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Easy to scale up for parties or family meals.
• Customizable Toppings: Adapt each taco with your favorite salsas, cheeses, or vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 pounds skirt or flank steak
• ½ cup lime juice
• ¼ cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 12 to 16 small corn tortillas
• Toppings: diced onion, chopped cilantro, avocado or guacamole, salsa, lime wedges, queso fresco

Directions

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, vinegar, olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and green onions.
2. Marinate the Steak: Place steak in a resealable bag or dish. Pour marinade over steak and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the Grill: Remove steak from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. Preheat grill to high heat.
4. Grill the Steak: Pat steak dry and grill for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until your desired doneness.
5. Rest and Slice: Let steak rest for 10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
6. Warm the Tortillas: Heat tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds per side.
7. Assemble the Tacos: Fill each tortilla with steak and desired toppings.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinate Time: 4–12 hours
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 25 minutes (including marination)

Variations

• Spicy Option: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the marinade.
• Different Citrus: Try lemon or grapefruit juice for a twist.
• Fresh Herbs: Add oregano or cilantro to the marinade.
• Alternative Proteins: Use chicken, shrimp, or mushrooms instead of steak.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat sliced steak in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out.

FAQs

What type of steak should I use for carne asada?

Skirt steak and flank steak are ideal because they’re flavorful and grill quickly.

How long should I marinate the steak?

Marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight provides the best flavor and tenderness.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, a stovetop grill pan or cast iron skillet works well too.

How do I keep the steak from becoming tough?

Avoid overcooking and always slice against the grain for tenderness.

What toppings go best with these tacos?

Popular toppings include onion, cilantro, avocado, salsa, lime juice, and cheese.

Can I freeze marinated steak?

Yes, freeze it in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.

Are corn or flour tortillas better?

Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas work if preferred.

How can I make it spicier?

Add chili flakes, chipotle peppers, or hot sauce to the marinade.

What sides pair well with these tacos?

Serve with Mexican rice, beans, or grilled vegetables.

How should I store leftover tacos?

Store each component separately. Reheat meat and tortillas before assembling.

Conclusion

Grilled carne asada tacos are a flavorful and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a zesty marinade, quick cook time, and a variety of topping options, these tacos are sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether for a family dinner or a weekend gathering, they offer a satisfying and authentic experience.

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