Flat Iron Carne Asada Tacos

What You’ll Need:

Carne Asada (Flat Iron Steak):

• 1–1¼ lb flat iron steak

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Juice of 1 large lime

• 2 tbsp orange juice (optional but recommended)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp oregano

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt (plus more to taste)

• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Toppings:

• Fresh lime wedges

• ¼ cup diced white onion

• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

• ¼ cup crumbled Mexican cheese (cotija or queso fresco)

Optional (to serve):

• Warm corn or flour tortillas

• Sliced radishes

• Pico de gallo

• Avocado or guacamole

Let’s Cook:

Marinate the Steak:

In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, lime juice, orange juice (if using), garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Add the flat iron steak, making sure it’s fully coated. Marinate at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Preheat the Grill or Pan:

Heat a grill, grill pan, or cast-iron skillet over medium-high until very hot.

Grill the Carne Asada:

Remove the steak from the marinade and shake off excess.
Grill 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until nicely charred and cooked to preferred doneness (medium-rare to medium is ideal).
Transfer to a cutting board and rest 5 minutes.

Slice the Steak:

Slice the flat iron against the grain into thin strips for maximum tenderness.

Prep the Toppings:

Dice the onion and chop the cilantro. Cut fresh lime wedges. Crumble the Mexican cheese.

Assemble Your Carne Asada:

Serve sliced steak in warm tortillas or over rice.
Top with onion, cilantro, Mexican cheese, and a fresh squeeze of lime.