Mexican Street Tacos Carne Asada

Bring the bold flavors of your favorite taco stand home with these authentic Mexican Street Tacos featuring juicy, citrus-marinated carne asada. Tender grilled steak, warm corn tortillas, and fresh toppings come together for a simple yet unforgettable meal that’s perfect for family dinners, cookouts, or taco night.

Ingredients

For the Carne Asada

• 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Tacos

• 12 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup diced white onion
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Salsa verde or your favorite salsa
• Crumbled cotija cheese (optional)
• Sliced avocado (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, garlic, jalapeño, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the steak and coat it well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
4. Grill the steak for 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness and your preferred level of doneness.
5. Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Slice the steak thinly against the grain, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
7. Warm the corn tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet until soft and lightly charred.
8. Fill each tortilla with the chopped carne asada, then top with diced onion and fresh cilantro.
9. Serve with lime wedges, salsa, and optional cotija cheese or avocado.

Tips

• Skirt steak delivers the most authentic flavor, while flank steak is a great alternative.
• Marinating overnight makes the steak extra tender and flavorful.
• Warming the tortillas before serving helps prevent them from tearing and enhances their flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours 30 minutes (including marinating)
Servings: 6