Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Carne Asada Tacos Recipe are an irresistible way to bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine to your kitchen. With juicy, marinated flank steak grilled to perfection and enveloped in warm tortillas, these tacos are topped with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime. Perfect for taco nights, gatherings, or simply satisfying a craving, this recipe showcases the delightful balance of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors that make carne asada a beloved favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The marinade combines lime juice, orange juice, and spices for a truly flavorful steak.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these tacos with your choice of toppings like pico de gallo, salsa verde, or guacamole for extra flair.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos fit right in.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories while packed with protein from the flank steak makes it a guilt-free indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Carne Asada Tacos Recipe, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the meat, enhancing flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine your marinade ingredients effectively for an even coating on the steak.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing the cooked steak into tender strips.
• Tongs: Use them to safely flip and remove meat from the grill without losing juices.

Ingredients

For the Steak Marinade

• 2 lbs flank steak (or skirt steak)
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• ¼ cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For Serving

• Corn or flour tortillas
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Diced onion (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)
• Pico de gallo, salsa verde, or guacamole (for topping – optional)

How to Make Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Place the flank steak in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak ensuring it is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight for more flavor).

Step 3: Grill the Steak

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from marinade and let excess drip off. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side until desired doneness is reached. Use tongs to flip halfway through cooking.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Once grilled to perfection, remove the steak from heat and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. After resting, slice against the grain into thin strips.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Warm tortillas on the grill briefly. Place sliced carne asada onto each tortilla. Top with fresh cilantro and diced onions. Serve with lime wedges and optional toppings like pico de gallo or guacamole.

Enjoy your delicious Carne Asada Tacos!

How to Serve Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Carne Asada Tacos are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re enjoying them at a gathering or a cozy dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your taco experience.

Classic Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of herbal flavor that complements the meat beautifully.
• Diced Onions: Their crunch and mild sweetness provide a nice contrast to the savory steak.
• Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over the tacos enhances their tangy profile.

Salsas and Dips

• Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa adds a refreshing element with its mix of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
• Salsa Verde: A zesty green salsa made from tomatillos that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip brings richness and balances the spice of the tacos.

Tortilla Options

• Corn Tortillas: Traditional choice that adds an authentic Mexican flavor and texture.
• Flour Tortillas: Soft and chewy, they are great for holding all the delicious fillings.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Perfecting your Carne Asada Tacos is about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your tacos turn out amazing every time.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allow the flank steak to marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible, to enhance its flavor.
• Grill at High Heat: Preheat your grill to high heat for those perfect char marks and juicy meat.
• Rest the Meat: Let the grilled steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This keeps it tender and juicy.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cut the meat against the grain for more tender pieces that are easier to chew.
• Warm Your Tortillas: Warm tortillas on the grill or in a pan before serving to make them more pliable and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

To create a complete meal, consider pairing your Carne Asada Tacos with some delicious side dishes. Here are some great options that complement these tacos perfectly.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with tomatoes, garlic, and spices makes a hearty side dish.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness, making them an ideal accompaniment.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and lime is a tasty outdoor grilling option.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with spicy salsa offer a fun snacking option before tacos are served.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Corn coated with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime is both flavorful and satisfying.
6. Cabbage Slaw: A crisp slaw adds freshness with its crunchy texture and tangy dressing to balance out rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Carne Asada Tacos, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the meat: Cooking the flank steak for too long can make it tough. Aim for medium-rare to keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Skipping marination: Marinating the steak enhances its flavor and tenderness. Ensure to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for the best results.
• Using cold tortillas: Warm tortillas enhance the taco experience. Heat them on a skillet or directly over an open flame before serving.
• Neglecting toppings: Fresh cilantro, onion, and lime add essential flavor. Don’t skip these garnishes; they elevate your tacos significantly.
• Not letting the meat rest: Allowing cooked steak to rest for a few minutes helps retain juices. Slice after resting for tastier tacos.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze them for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm a skillet on medium heat and briefly grill each taco until heated, about 1-2 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Carne Asada Tacos:

What is the best cut of meat for Carne Asada Tacos Recipe?

Flank steak or skirt steak is ideal due to its flavor and tenderness when grilled properly.

Can I substitute flank steak in this Carne Asada Tacos Recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts like sirloin or even chicken or turkey if preferred.

How do I make my Carne Asada Tacos Recipe more flavorful?

Marinate your meat longer, add spices like smoked paprika, and don’t forget fresh toppings!

What toppings go well with Carne Asada Tacos?

Fresh cilantro, diced onions, lime wedges, and sauces like pico de gallo or guacamole are excellent choices.

How do I store leftover Carne Asada Tacos Recipe?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Carne Asada Tacos are not just delicious; they offer versatility that allows you to customize them according to your taste preferences. Whether it’s adding extra toppings or adjusting spices, this recipe invites creativity in every bite. Give it a try and savor the rich flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine right at home!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Carne Asada Tacos

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Carne Asada Tacos are a delightful way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right at home. This recipe features tender, marinated flank steak grilled to perfection and served in warm tortillas. Topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime, these tacos are perfect for taco night or any casual gathering. With a marinade that combines zesty lime and orange juices with aromatic spices, every bite delivers an explosion of flavor. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings like pico de gallo or guacamole, making them an ideal choice for both family dinners and festive occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs flank steak
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• ¼ cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• Diced onion (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, garlic, and spices until well combined.
2. Place the flank steak in a resealable bag with the marinade; seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the marinated steak for about 5-7 minutes per side until desired doneness.
4. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.
5. Warm tortillas on the grill; assemble tacos by placing sliced steak on each tortilla and topping with cilantro and onions. Serve with lime wedges.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos (about 150g total)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg