How to Make the Perfect Grilled Carne Asada Tacos
Mexican · Easy · 27 min · 4 servings
Thinly sliced marinated flank steak grilled over high heat and served in warm corn tortillas with fresh salsa and guacamole. A simple weeknight taco that delivers bold smoky flavors.
Why this recipe works
This Grilled Carne Asada Tacos recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 27 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 460 calories with 35g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 9 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1.5 lb flank steak
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp orange juice
- 3 clove garlic minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 8 piece small corn tortillas
- 0.5 cup white onion finely diced
- 0.5 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 piece avocado mashed
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
Combine lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, chili powder, and salt in a bowl. Place the flank steak in a zip lock bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal and massage the marinade into the meat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Prepare the Toppings
While the steak marinates, mash the avocado with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime juice. Dice the white onion finely and chop the cilantro. Set all toppings aside at room temperature.
Step 3: Grill the Steak
Heat a grill or grill pan to high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry slightly with paper towels. Grill for 5 to 6 minutes per side for medium rare. Do not move the steak around too much so a proper char can develop.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 to 7 minutes. Slice the steak very thinly across the grain at a slight diagonal angle. This step is critical for tender carne asada.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Warm corn tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet for 20 to 30 seconds per side. Spoon a small amount of mashed avocado on each tortilla. Top with sliced carne asada, diced onion, and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- flank steak → skirt steak or sirloin
- corn tortillas → flour tortillas
- mashed avocado → store bought guacamole
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Slicing the steak with the grain instead of against it which makes the meat very chewy
- Not allowing the grill to get hot enough before placing the steak on it
- Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling without letting it rest
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 460 calories, 35g protein, 30g carbs, 20g fat, 4g fiber.
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