Carne Asada with Avocado Salsa Verde

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Juicy, smoky, and boldly flavorful — Carne Asada is a classic Mexican dish that brings the grill to life. Marinated to perfection with a blend of citrus, spices, and herbs, this grilled steak delivers a rich umami punch with a hint of char. When paired with a refreshing avocado salsa verde, it transforms into an unforgettable meal layered with creamy, zesty, and herbaceous notes in every bite.

This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or taco night with friends. The avocado salsa verde, packed with tomatillos, lime, and creamy chunks of avocado, cuts through the richness of the meat and brings bright, balanced flavor. Whether served on its own, over rice, or in warm tortillas, Carne Asada with Avocado Salsa Verde is an explosion of textures and tastes you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients for Carne Asada with Avocado Salsa Verde

For the Carne Asada Marinade:

• 2 lbs flank or skirt steak
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Avocado Salsa Verde:

• 4 medium tomatillos, husked and rinsed
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1 jalapeño (seeded for less heat)
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• Salt to taste

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Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, combine the olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped jalapeño, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly. Add the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor absorption.

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Step 2: Prepare the Avocado Salsa Verde

While the steak is marinating, begin making the salsa verde. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil and add the tomatillos. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until they turn pale green and soften slightly. Drain and let them cool. In a blender or food processor, combine the tomatillos, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until mostly smooth but still slightly chunky. Transfer to a bowl and fold in the diced avocado and chopped red onion. Adjust salt and lime juice to taste.

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Step 3: Grill the Carne Asada

Preheat a grill or grill pan over high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Grill the steak for about 6–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until a nice char forms and it reaches your preferred level of doneness (medium-rare is ideal). Let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes after grilling to retain its juices.

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Step 4: Slice and Serve

Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. Serve immediately with generous spoonfuls of avocado salsa verde on top. Optionally, garnish with fresh lime wedges and cilantro for extra brightness. Serve with tortillas, rice, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and will vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of meat is best for carne asada?

Flank steak and skirt steak are traditional and work beautifully for this recipe due to their flavor and tenderness when marinated and grilled properly.

Can I use a stovetop instead of a grill?

Absolutely! A cast-iron grill pan or heavy skillet works great. Just make sure it’s hot enough to sear the meat.

How long should I marinate the steak?

At least 2 hours is recommended, but overnight marination gives the deepest flavor and best texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the meat a day ahead and make the salsa a few hours in advance. Just store them separately until ready to serve.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild to medium heat level. To reduce spiciness, remove seeds from jalapeños or use only half in the marinade and salsa.

Can I freeze the carne asada?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated uncooked steak for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.

What are good side dishes to serve with this?

Mexican rice, grilled corn, black beans, or warm tortillas are fantastic complements to carne asada.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any store-bought sauces or spices are certified gluten-free if needed.

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