Description
This Cilantro Lime Carne Asada recipe offers a vibrant and zesty way to enjoy marinated flank steak grilled to perfection. Infused with a blend of chili powder, garlic, cumin, paprika, and fresh lime juice, this dish is bursting with bold flavors, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful BBQ treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Seasoning Mix
- 1½ teaspoons chili powder
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1½ teaspoons paprika
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ teaspoon oregano
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds flank steak
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2–3 limes)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix: Combine the chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and oregano in a bowl to create the carne asada seasoning.
- Marinate the steak: Place the flank steak in a zip-top bag or container, add the seasoning mix, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Seal and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Brush the grill grates with the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the steak: Place the marinated flank steak on the heated grill. Cook for 4-6 minutes on one side, then flip and continue grilling until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness (typically medium rare to medium).
- Rest and slice: Remove the steak from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Then, slice the carne asada thinly against the grain to ensure tender pieces.
Notes
- Marinate the steak longer, up to 2 hours, for more intense flavor if time permits.
- For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or use a charcoal grill.
- Serve with warm tortillas, salsa, or guacamole for a complete meal.
- Cutting against the grain is crucial to keep the meat tender.
- Flank steak is lean, so avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: carne asada, cilantro lime steak, grilled flank steak, Mexican grilled meat, carne asada marinade
