A grassy, well-marbled skirt or flank is the whole point, so buy a real cut. The technique that matters is a screaming-hot grill and a short cook, because these thin cuts overcook in a minute and go from juicy to gray fast.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep20 min
Cook12 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineMexican
Cost$$$
Gluten-freeDairy-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Skirt steak
Loose-grained and beefy, it soaks up marinade and chars fast.
About as virtuous as dinner gets. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortEasy
Cook it with
Grill
The Method
MarinateWhisk juice of 4 limes and 1 orange with garlic, cilantro, cumin, and salt. Coat the steak and marinate 30 min to 2 hr, no longer or the acid turns the surface mushy.
Fire the grillGet the grill or a cast iron pan ripping hot, until a drop of water skitters and vanishes instantly.
GrillCook the steak 2 to 3 min per side for a hard char and medium-rare center, 125F. It is thin, so watch it closely.
Rest and sliceRest 5 min, then slice thinly against the grain at an angle. Cutting with the grain makes it chewy.
Can you make Carne Asada in an air fryer? — Sometimes
Sometimes — if the pieces are small and cooked dry, an air fryer can handle it in a single layer; anything saucy or liquid needs a pan. When in doubt, the stovetop or oven is the safe call.
Can you freeze Carne Asada? — Yes
Yes — cool it, portion into airtight containers, and freeze; thaw in the fridge and reheat.
Can you make Carne Asada ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Carne Asada gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Carne Asada vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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