Zesty Citrus Carne Asada: A Flavor-Packed Grilling Sensation

Authentic Citrus Marinated Carne Asada

Perfect carne asada starts with the right marinade – one that tenderizes the meat while infusing it with bold, vibrant flavors. This recipe delivers a juicy, flavor-packed steak with the perfect balance of citrus, herbs, and spices that will elevate your next backyard barbecue or family dinner.

Why This Carne Asada Recipe Works

The secret to outstanding carne asada lies in its marinade. The powerful combination of citrus juices naturally breaks down tough muscle fibers, while soy sauce adds depth and helps the meat retain moisture. The blend of spices creates that authentic Mexican flavor profile that makes carne asada a beloved dish across Latin America and beyond.

What You’ll Need for Perfect Carne Asada

For the Marinade:

• ¾ cup fresh orange juice
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

For the Meat:

• 2-3 pounds flank steak or skirt steak

How to Make the Best Carne Asada

1. In a large glass or ceramic bowl, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, and lime juice to create the citrus base of your marinade.
2. Add the chopped cilantro, soy sauce, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, black pepper, chipotle pepper, and oregano. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a uniform mixture.
3. Place your steak in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow glass dish and pour the marinade over the meat, making sure it’s completely covered.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably 24 hours for maximum flavor penetration and tenderizing.
5. When ready to cook, remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes.
6. Preheat your grill to high heat (450-500°F).
7. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Discard the used marinade.
8. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
9. Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
10. Slice the meat thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
11. Serve immediately with warm tortillas and your favorite accompaniments.

Expert Tips for Carne Asada Success

• Choose the right cut: Flank steak or skirt steak are traditional for carne asada due to their rich flavor, though flank is slightly leaner.
• Marinating time matters: While 4 hours will work, a full 24-hour marinade delivers the most tender, flavorful results.
• Use fresh citrus: The freshly squeezed juices make a significant difference in flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
• Slice properly: Always cut against the grain to break up the muscle fibers and ensure tenderness.
• Don’t overcook: Medium-rare to medium is ideal for carne asada to maintain juiciness.

Serving Suggestions for Your Carne Asada

Traditional carne asada can be enjoyed in numerous ways:

• Wrapped in warm corn tortillas with diced onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime
• As the protein in a hearty burrito with rice, beans, and guacamole
• Served alongside grilled vegetables and Mexican rice for a complete dinner
• Chopped and used as a topping for nachos or a taco salad
• In quesadillas with melted cheese and pico de gallo

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 207 kcal
• Protein: 15 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 640 mg
• Cholesterol: 25 mg

Frequently Asked Questions About Carne Asada

Can I use this marinade for other meats?

Absolutely! While traditionally used for beef, this marinade works wonderfully with chicken, pork, or even firm fish like mahi-mahi.

Can I make this carne asada without a grill?

Yes, you can use a cast-iron skillet or broiler with excellent results. For the skillet method, heat to high and cook 4-5 minutes per side. For broiling, position the rack 4 inches from the heat source and broil 5-6 minutes per side.

How long will leftover carne asada keep?

Properly stored in an airtight container, leftover carne asada will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It’s excellent for meal prep!

Can I freeze the marinated meat before cooking?

Yes! This is a great make-ahead strategy. Place the meat and marinade in a freezer bag, remove excess air, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before cooking.

The Perfect Weekend Carne Asada

Whether you’re hosting a backyard fiesta or planning a special family dinner, this carne asada recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every time. The combination of citrus, herbs, and spices creates a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Remember that patience pays off – allow adequate marinating time, and you’ll be rewarded with incredibly tender, flavor-packed meat that truly captures the essence of authentic carne asada.

Recipe inspired by Lisa’s Favorite Carne Asada Marinade