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Cilantro Lime Carne Asada Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 108 reviews

This vibrant Cilantro Lime Carne Asada recipe features tender, flavorful flank steak marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, cilantro, and a robust spice mix. Perfectly grilled to your preferred doneness and sliced thinly, it makes a delightful dish for tacos, salads, or served alongside your favorite sides.

Ingredients

Scale

Spice 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

Marinade & Meat

  • 2 pounds flank steak
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2–3 limes)
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the spice mix: In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and oregano to create the carne asada seasoning.
  2. Marinate the steak: Place the flank steak into a zip-top bag or container and add the seasoning mix, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Seal and massage the marinade into the meat. Refrigerate and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.
  3. Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Brush the grill grates with the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the steak: Place the marinated flank steak on the hot grill. Cook for 4-6 minutes on one side, then flip and grill the other side until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness (medium-rare to medium is recommended for flank steak).
  5. Rest the steak: Remove the carne asada from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays tender and juicy.
  6. Slice and serve: Slice the carne asada thinly against the grain of the meat. Serve immediately as a main dish, or use it as a flavorful filling for tacos, burritos, or salads.

Notes

  • For even more flavor, marinate the steak for up to 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
  • If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or cast iron skillet on the stovetop works well.
  • Remember to slice against the grain to keep the meat tender.
  • Use fresh lime juice for the best zing and brightness in the marinade.
  • Adjust seasoning amounts to suit your taste or dietary restrictions.

Keywords: Carne Asada, Grilled Steak, Mexican Cuisine, Cilantro Lime Steak, Flank Steak, Marinade, Easy Dinner

Find it online: https://recipeswithria.com/cilantro-lime-carne-asada-recipe/