Name: Cilantro Lime Carne Asada Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 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; 2 pounds flank steak; 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes); 1/2 cup chopped cilantro; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Cilantro Lime Carne Asada is a flavorful and tender grilled steak perfect for tacos, salads, or served on its own. The zesty lime and fresh cilantro combine with a smoky spice blend to create a vibrant, mouthwatering dish. It’s simple to prepare and sure to impress at any meal.

Cilantro Lime Carne Asada Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

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
2 pounds flank steak
¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
½ cup chopped cilantro
3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and oregano to create the carne asada seasoning.
Step 2: Place the flank steak in a zip-top bag or container. Add the seasoning mix, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Seal and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Brush the grill with the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Place the marinated flank steak on the grill. Cook for 4-6 minutes on one side, then flip and cook the other side until it reaches your desired level of doneness (medium rare to medium is ideal).
Step 5: Remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices.
Step 6: Slice the carne asada thinly against the grain of the meat for maximum tenderness. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra char and smoky flavor, cook the steak on a charcoal grill if possible.
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for more heat.
Marinate the steak for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor, but avoid marinating too long as citrus can start to “cook” the meat.
Serve with warm corn or flour tortillas, fresh guacamole, and pico de gallo for a classic carne asada taco.
If flank steak isn’t available, skirt steak also works well for this recipe.

Storage

Store any leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave covered to prevent drying out. It also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, you can use a grill pan or a heavy skillet on the stovetop to achieve similar results. Preheat the pan over medium-high heat and cook the steak similarly, allowing a good sear on each side.

How do I know when the steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium. Alternatively, check firmness with the finger test or your preferred method.