Carne Asada Tacos with Homemade Salsa 🌮🔥
If there’s one dish that defines bold, smoky, and vibrant Mexican street food, it’s Carne Asada Tacos. Juicy flank steak is marinated in a zesty blend of lime, garlic, and spices, grilled to perfection, then tucked into warm corn tortillas and topped with fresh onion relish and a rich homemade salsa.
These tacos bring together the perfect balance of tender steak, bright acidity, and a hint of heat. Whether you’re planning a weekend cookout, Taco Tuesday, or a family gathering, these tacos will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe 💡
- Authentic flavor – A bold marinade infuses the steak with tangy, smoky, and savory notes.
- Homemade salsa & toppings – Fresh salsa and onion relish take it to the next level.
- Perfect for gatherings – Easy to scale for a family dinner or backyard party.
- Customizable – Add your favorite toppings like Cotija cheese, avocado, or crema.
Ingredients 🛒
For the Carne Asada:
- ⅓ cup white vinegar
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 3 pounds flank steak
For the Onion Relish:
- 1 white onion, chopped
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Homemade Salsa:
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 2 jalapeño peppers, diced
- 1 white onion, quartered
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 4 dried red chile pods
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 1 (32 oz) package corn tortillas
- 2 cups grated Cotija cheese (optional)
- Lime wedges (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
1️⃣ Marinate the Carne Asada
- In a medium bowl, whisk together vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, and all the spices.
- Place the flank steak in a large dish and pour the marinade over it, coating both sides.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, for maximum flavor.
2️⃣ Prepare the Onion Relish
- In a small bowl, combine chopped onion, cilantro, and lime juice.
- Mix well, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use.
3️⃣ Make the Homemade Salsa
- Toast the dried chile pods in a hot skillet for a few minutes. Soak them in water for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Roast diced tomatoes, quartered onion, jalapeños, and garlic on a baking sheet for 20 minutes until charred.
- Blend roasted vegetables and soaked chile pods until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4️⃣ Cook the Carne Asada
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high and lightly grease with oil.
- Remove steak from marinade, pat dry, and cook for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Let the steak rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
5️⃣ Assemble the Tacos
- Warm corn tortillas until pliable.
- Fill each tortilla with strips of carne asada.
- Top with onion relish, a spoonful of homemade salsa, and optional Cotija cheese or lime wedges.
Expert Tips & Variations 🌟
- Grill for smoky flavor – If possible, cook the carne asada over an outdoor grill for authentic charred taste.
- Taco bar idea – Serve with multiple salsas, guacamole, and toppings for a fun DIY taco night.
- Spice control – Adjust heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños or chile pods.
- Tortilla upgrade – Lightly char tortillas over an open flame for extra flavor.
Important Notes 📌
- Always let the steak rest before slicing—this locks in juices.
- Slice against the grain for the most tender bites.
- Don’t over-marinate—more than 24 hours can make the meat mushy.
Nutritional Information (per taco, with toppings) 📊
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
(Values vary depending on tortilla size, toppings, and portioning.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓
1. Can I make carne asada ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the steak up to 24 hours in advance and even cook it a few hours before serving. Just reheat sliced meat gently before assembling tacos.
2. What cut of beef is best for carne asada?
Flank steak is traditional, but skirt steak or sirloin work well too.
3. Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely. Use extra jalapeños, swap in serrano peppers, or add chili flakes to the marinade.
4. How do I keep tortillas from breaking?
Warm them thoroughly in a skillet, wrapped in foil, or in a tortilla warmer. You can also double up tortillas for sturdier tacos.
5. What sides go well with carne asada tacos?
Classic pairings include Mexican rice, refried beans, grilled corn, or a fresh avocado salad.
🔥 Bold, juicy, and packed with authentic Mexican flavors, these Carne Asada Tacos with Homemade Salsa are guaranteed to wow your family or guests. Once you try them, they’ll become a regular in your taco night rotation!