The Best Carne Asada Recipe for Summer: Authentic Marinade + Grilling Tips

There are a few universal truths in life:

✨ Summer hits different when you’re surrounded by family

✨ Food tastes better when it’s grilled

✨ And every family has that one tía who brings the vibes, the chisme, and the best carne asada.

This year, I’m stepping up. This is my official audition tape to join the next generation of tías, the ones who show up with a cooler full of drinks, a playlist ready to go, and a marinade that makes the whole neighborhood peek over the fence.

Growing up, our family tradition was simple: everyone gathers in the garage, the grill gets fired up, and the smell of carne asada becomes the unofficial start of summer. Kids running around, tios arguing about soccer, someone blasting music too loud — it’s chaotic, it’s loud, and it’s perfect.

And at the center of it all?

Carne Asada, the dish that brings everyone to the table.

So if you’re ready to level up your summer cookouts, here’s the marinade that never fails.

Ingredients for Carne Asada marinade

• 2 lbs @NolanRyanBeef Angus skirt steak 

• Juice of 3 limes

• Juice of 1 orange

• 1–2 cups mojo

• 1 tbsp Salsa Inglesa (Worcestershire sauce)

• White onion, sliced

• Chopped cilantro

• 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prep the Marinade

   In a large bowl or zip‑top bag, combine the lime juice, orange juice, mojo, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, cilantro, and onion. Season generously with salt and pepper. This marinade should smell bright, citrusy, and a little dangerous, that’s how you know it’s right.

2. Add the Steak

   Place your skirt steak into the marinade, making sure every inch is coated. Massage it like you’re apologizing for all the times you’ve been stressed this week.

3. Marinate

   Let it sit for at least 2 hours, but overnight is the real tía move.

4. Grill Time

   Heat your grill to high. Sear the steak for 3–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. You want charred edges and juicy centers.

5. Rest & Slice

   Let the steak rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Everyone has their own ideal carne asada setup. Mine looks like this:

• Warm corn tortillas

• Grilled cebollitas

• Charred jalapeños

• Fresh pico de gallo o Chimol

• Guacamole

• Lime wedges

• Rice

• Queso fresco o duro

Now it’s your turn, what does your perfect carne asada plate look like? Drop it below and let’s compare notes.

Common Questions:

How long should I marinate carne asada?

At least 2 hours, but overnight gives the best flavor.

What cut of meat is best for carne asada?

Skirt steak or flank steak — both absorb marinade beautifully and grill quickly.

Can I cook carne asada without a grill?

Yes! A cast‑iron skillet or grill pan works great on the stovetop.

Can I freeze marinated carne asada?

Absolutely. Freeze it in the marinade for maximum flavor.