This Carne Asada Marinade Recipe is bold, zesty, and packed with authentic flavor! Made with fresh citrus, garlic, herbs, and savory spices, it tenderizes the steak while infusing it with rich, smoky goodness. Perfect for grilling, tacos, burritos, or serving sliced with rice and beans — it’s the ultimate marinade for juicy, flavorful carne asada every time.
Servings:Â 6
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs 700g flank steak or skirt steak
- ⅓ cup 80ml fresh orange juice
- ¼ cup 60ml fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jalapeño finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
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Make the marinade:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, jalapeño, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and cilantro until well combined.
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Marinate the steak:
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Place the steak in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak, making sure it is fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
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Prepare to cook:
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Remove the steak from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes before cooking to bring it closer to room temperature. Discard excess marinade.
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Grill the steak:
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Preheat grill to high heat (about 450–500°F / 230–260°C). Grill steak for 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until desired doneness (130–135°F for medium-rare).
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Rest and slice:
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Transfer steak to a cutting board and let rest for 5–10 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain.