Carne Asada
Juicy and flavorful carne asada features marinated flank or skirt steak with bold flavors from red wine, vinegar, olive oil, and oregano. Perfect for grilling enthusiasts and gatherings, this dish offers tender, charred meat with a tangy marinade that enhances its natural taste. Ideal for outdoor cookouts and casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate the steak in a deep bowl with red wine, vinegar, olive oil, and oregano for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the grill to a hot fire.
- Grill the marinated steak over high heat for 4 to 5 minutes for rare doneness.
- Adjust cooking time if using flank steak, which may take longer.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the steak overnight. If you don’t have red wine, use a mix of grape juice and vinegar as a substitute. Ensure your grill is preheated to achieve a perfect sear. For added spice, consider incorporating chili powder or cumin into the marinade. Flank steak can be tougher, so slice against the grain for tenderness. This dish pairs excellently with Paul'S Piquante Salsa for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve carne asada sliced thinly with warm tortillas, and pair it with sides like Mexican Potato Salad(Microwave) or Cactus Salad for a refreshing contrast. Toppings like guacamole, salsa, and fresh cilantro enhance the flavor. For a complete meal, consider accompanying it with Pineapple Margaritas to elevate your dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover carne asada can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the steak in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Cover with a lid to warm thoroughly without drying out. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make the meat tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carne Asada contains roughly 147 calories, with 2g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (44% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of meat for carne asada?
Yes, while flank and skirt steak are traditional, you can also use sirloin or ribeye. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since different cuts may vary in thickness and tenderness.
What can I serve with carne asada?
Carne asada pairs well with various sides such as Mexican rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it in tacos with toppings like onions and cilantro for a delicious meal.
How do I know when the steak is done?
For rare doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C). Use a meat thermometer for precision. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred doneness, remembering that flank steak may require additional time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).