Oh my goodness, let me tell you about carne asada with avocado salsa verde! This dish is like a fiesta on your plate, bursting with flavor and freshness. The grilled flank steak, marinated to perfection, pairs so beautifully with the creamy, zesty avocado salsa that it’s hard to resist. I remember the first time I had this at a family gathering; the smoky aroma from the grill mixed with the bright flavors of the salsa just made my mouth water! It’s a classic in Mexican cuisine, often served at celebrations and gatherings, and trust me, once you try making it at home, you’ll want to share it with everyone. This recipe captures that essence of togetherness and joy that comes with every bite, making it perfect for any occasion—big or small!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup tomatillos, husked and chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
(Tip: Fresh ingredients make all the difference! Make sure your avocados are ripe for that creamy texture in the salsa.)
How to Prepare Carne Asada with Avocado Salsa Verde
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making carne asada with avocado salsa verde! I promise, it’s easier than you think, and the results are totally worth it! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that’ll impress anyone.
Marinating the Steak
First things first, we need to get that flank steak nice and flavorful. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined. Then, add the flank steak and make sure it’s coated evenly with the marinade. Cover it up and let it marinate in the fridge for at least an hour—longer if you can, like up to four hours! The longer it sits, the more those flavors will soak in. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!
Grilling the Steak
Now, onto the grilling! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—this is crucial for getting that perfect sear. Once it’s hot, place the marinated steak on the grill. Grill it for about 6-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare. If you prefer it more done, just add a couple of extra minutes per side. To check for doneness, you can use a meat thermometer. Aim for about 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. Oh, and don’t forget to let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes after grilling before slicing. This helps keep all those delicious juices locked in!
Preparing the Avocado Salsa Verde
While the steak is resting, let’s whip up that fresh avocado salsa verde! In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocados, chopped tomatillos, cilantro, lime juice, and chopped jalapeño. Mix it all together gently to keep the avocados from getting mushy. Taste it and adjust any seasonings if needed. If you want a little extra kick, feel free to add more jalapeño! This salsa is so refreshing, and it pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the carne asada.
Serving the Dish
Now comes the best part—serving it up! Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This helps ensure that each bite is tender and juicy. Serve the sliced steak on a platter topped generously with the avocado salsa verde. For a complete meal, I love serving this with warm tortillas or a side of rice. You can even add some grilled veggies for an extra touch! Get ready to dig in and enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible flavor: The combination of marinated flank steak and creamy avocado salsa verde creates a taste explosion in every bite!
- Quick and easy: With just a bit of marinating and grilling, this dish can be on your table in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Fresh ingredients: The use of ripe avocados and vibrant tomatillos means you’re getting a healthy dose of nutrients, making this dish not just tasty but good for you, too.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the heat level of the salsa by adding more or less jalapeño, so it suits everyone’s palate.
- Great for gatherings: This recipe is fantastic for feeding a crowd, whether it’s a barbecue, a family dinner, or a casual get-together with friends.
- Leftovers are a bonus: If you happen to have any steak left, it makes for amazing tacos or salads the next day!
Tips for Success
Alright, my fellow cooks, here are some pro tips to take your carne asada with avocado salsa verde to the next level! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will make all the difference.
- Choose the right cut: Flank steak is great for this recipe, but if you want something even more tender, try skirt steak or sirloin. Both will work wonders!
- Don’t skimp on marinating: The longer you marinate the steak, the better the flavors will develop. If you can, marinate it overnight for maximum impact!
- Temperature check: Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness! Remember, 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, and 140°F (60°C) for medium. Overcooking will make it tough, so keep an eye on it!
- Resting is key: Letting the steak rest after grilling is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Just be patient for those 5 minutes!
- Freshness matters: For the salsa, use the freshest ingredients you can find. Ripe avocados and sweet tomatillos make a world of difference in taste!
- Adjust to your taste: Don’t be afraid to tweak the seasoning! If you like things spicier, toss in another jalapeño or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Get creative with serving: Try serving the carne asada with different sides, like grilled corn or a fresh salad, to complement the dish and wow your guests!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a carne asada that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk about the nutritional side of carne asada with avocado salsa verde! These values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what to expect when you dig into this delicious dish. Each serving is packed with flavor and a solid nutritional profile, making it a great choice for any meal!
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 35g
With all that protein and healthy fats from the avocado, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also fuels your day. Enjoy the goodness and the flavors that come together in this beautiful meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is my go-to, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Just remember that each cut has its own cooking time and tenderness, so adjust accordingly!
What can I substitute for tomatillos?
If you can’t find tomatillos, you can use green tomatoes or even a mix of green bell pepper and lime juice for a similar flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary a bit.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover carne asada and salsa in separate airtight containers in the fridge. It should keep well for about 3 days. Just reheat the steak gently on the grill or in a skillet to avoid drying it out!
Can I make the avocado salsa ahead of time?
While you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, I recommend making the salsa fresh just before serving. Avocados brown quickly, so it’s best enjoyed right after it’s mixed. If you must make it early, try adding a bit of lime juice to slow down the browning!
What do you recommend serving with carne asada?
Oh, there are so many delicious options! I love serving it with warm tortillas, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also add grilled veggies or some refried beans for a complete meal. Get creative and enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this mouthwatering carne asada with avocado salsa verde and have some leftovers—lucky you! Properly storing and reheating it is key to keeping those amazing flavors intact.
First, let’s talk storage. I recommend placing any leftover carne asada and avocado salsa in separate airtight containers. This way, the steak stays juicy, and the salsa doesn’t brown too quickly. You can keep both in the refrigerator for about 3 days. Just make sure to label them with the date, so you don’t lose track!
Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ll want to be gentle to avoid drying out that delicious steak. The best method is to use a skillet over medium heat. Just add a splash of water or broth to the pan, cover it with a lid, and heat until warmed through. This helps retain moisture and keeps the steak nice and tender.
If you prefer using the grill, that works too! Preheat the grill to low and place the steak on for just a few minutes on each side until it’s warmed through. And remember, the avocado salsa should be served fresh, so it’s best to whip up a new batch if you can. But if you have to use the leftover salsa, just give it a good stir before serving to refresh it a bit!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of carne asada with avocado salsa verde even after the first feast is gone. Happy eating!
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Carne Asada with Avocado Salsa Verde: 5 Simple Steps!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Carne asada with avocado salsa verde is a flavorful grilled beef dish topped with fresh avocado salsa.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds flank steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup tomatillos, husked and chopped
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
Instructions
- Marinate the flank steak with olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the steak for 6-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare.
- Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- In a bowl, mix avocados, tomatillos, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño for the salsa.
- Slice the steak and serve topped with avocado salsa verde.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Let the steak rest to retain juices.
- Serve with tortillas or rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: carne asada, avocado salsa verde, grilled beef, Mexican cuisine
