The sizzling sound of marinated flank steak hitting a hot grill immediately transports me to a vibrant Mexican mercado, where the aroma of spices swirls in the air. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada, a dish that brings a fiesta to any table. Not only is this recipe a feast for the eyes, but it’s also quick to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave homemade goodness without the hassle. Plus, each crunchy tostada is an endless canvas for creativity, allowing you to pile on fresh toppings like creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, and zesty jalapeños. Curious about how to make these mouthwatering delights? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Tostadas So Irresistible?
Bold flavors: The marinated flank steak brings a savory richness, perfectly complemented by a zesty topping of fresh ingredients.
Quick to prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, these tostadas are an excellent option for those busy nights when you want homemade magic without spending hours in the kitchen.
Endless customization: Experiment with your favorite toppings like creamy avocado or spiced jalapeños to create your unique flavor profile.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, these vibrant tostadas will impress family and friends, making them a hit at any fiesta.
Make-ahead option: Prep the steak and salsa in advance so all you need to do is assemble before serving—such a time-saver! Try pairing them with Mexican rice for a complete meal.
Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada Ingredients
• Get ready to create a mouthwatering fiesta!
For the Steak Marinade
• Flank steak – This cut is perfect for grilling, offering great flavor and tenderness.
• Olive oil – Helps to infuse flavor and keeps the steak juicy while cooking.
• Lime juice – Adds a tangy brightness, enhancing the overall taste of your Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada.
• Minced garlic – Brings an aromatic, savory depth to the marinade.
• Cumin – Delivers warm, earthy notes that pair beautifully with beef.
• Chili powder – Gives a hint of spice that elevates the dish.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• Pepper – Adds a touch of heat.
For the Tostadas
• Tostada shells – The crunchy base that holds all the delicious toppings together.
• Avocado – Creamy slices add richness and balance to the dish.
• Shredded lettuce – Offers crispness and freshness with each bite.
• Diced tomatoes – Juicy and vibrant, they’ll brighten up your tostadas.
• Diced red onion – Adds a sharp, zesty kick to the fresh toppings.
• Diced jalapeño – Provides a spicy kick; adjust to taste for milder or stronger heat.
• Lime wedges – Perfect for squeezing over, giving an extra zing.
• Fresh cilantro – A refreshing herb that completes your tostada topping beautifully.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada
Step 1: Prepare the Steak Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup lime juice, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Place the flank steak in the marinade, ensuring it's well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow the steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate it for up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the marinated flank steak from the bowl, letting any excess marinade drip off. Cook the steak for 4-6 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (look for a nice char). Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Step 3: Prepare the Fresh Salsa
While the steak is resting, in a separate bowl, combine diced tomatoes, diced red onion, diced jalapeño, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and salt to taste. Mix everything well until combined. This fresh salsa will add a vibrant contrast to your Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada, bringing it all together with its bright flavors.
Step 4: Assemble the Tostadas
On a serving platter, arrange the tostada shells. Start by layering the sliced carne asada evenly over each tostada, ensuring every bite has a hearty portion. Next, top each tostada with shredded lettuce, a few slices of avocado, and a generous spoonful of the fresh salsa for a beautiful, colorful presentation.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish off your Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada by sprinkling fresh cilantro over the top for an aromatic touch. Serve lime wedges on the side, allowing everyone to squeeze fresh juice over their tostadas for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your homemade feast immediately for the best taste and crunch!
How to Store and Freeze Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada
Room Temperature: Store leftover tostadas at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, refrigerate to maintain freshness and avoid spoilage.
Fridge: Place assembled tostadas in an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep toppings separate to preserve the crispiness of the tostada shells.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the marinated flank steak for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking. Avoid freezing assembled tostadas, as they won’t retain their crunchy texture.
Reheating: Reheat leftover steak in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Reassemble tostadas right before serving to ensure they are fresh and crunchy.
Expert Tips for Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada
• Marinating Time Matters: Allow the flank steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours gives a stronger flavor punch that enhances your Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the steak while grilling. Overcooking can lead to tough meat; aim for medium-rare to preserve tenderness and juices.
• Layer Wisely: Start with meat and then balance crunchy textures with avocado and lettuce. This layering technique keeps your tostadas from becoming soggy.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeño in your salsa to control spiciness. Test a small piece beforehand to ensure it matches your desired heat level.
• Prep Ahead: For an easy dinner, prep the steak and salsa in advance. Just assemble the tostadas right before serving for a fresh experience!
What to Serve with Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada
To complete your culinary journey, consider these delightful sides and drinks that enhance each vibrant bite.
- Mexican Rice: A fluffy, seasoned rice that adds a comforting, filling element to balance the crispy tostadas.
- Black Beans: Rich in protein and fiber, these beans offer a creamy contrast, enhancing the savory flavors of the carne asada.
Imagine pairing your tostadas with a fresh corn salad bursting with sweet kernels and lime zest, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smothered in lime and chili powder, this treat brings a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Crisp Tortilla Chips: Served alongside with guacamole or salsa, these chips keep the fiesta spirit alive and entertain your guests.
- Margaritas: A refreshing citrus cocktail that perfectly balances the spice of the tostadas, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Churros with Chocolate Sauce: A sweet, crunchy dessert to indulge in that brings a delightful finish to your meal.
- Cilantro Lime Slaw: Fresh and vibrant, this slaw brightens up the plate and adds a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with your tostadas.
Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Vegetarian option: Swap flank steak with grilled mushrooms or marinated tofu for a delicious plant-based twist. The earthy flavors will still deliver that satisfying and hearty vibe.
- Spicy kick: Add extra jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to amplify the heat and tantalize your taste buds. You can even include a drizzle of hot sauce for additional zing!
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free alternatives like nut-based cheese or skip the avocado altogether. The flavors will still pop with every delightful bite.
- Crunchy toppings: Replace shredded lettuce with fresh spinach or add crispy tortilla strips for extra texture. These add-ons will provide an enjoyable contrast to the warm toppings.
- Fiesta flavors: Incorporate some black beans into the topping mixture. This will add depth and protein, making your tostadas even more satisfying!
- Citrus burst: Mix in diced mango or pineapple with your salsa for a vibrant fruity twist. The sweetness balances the savory meat beautifully, creating a signature dish.
- Make it a platter: Create a tostada bar by laying out different toppings (like corn salsa, radish slices, or guacamole) on the table. Everyone can build their own unique masterpiece!
- Savory additions: Consider adding crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for an added touch of creaminess and flavor balance, enhancing the overall taste of your tostadas.
These variations ensure that every gathering is a celebration of flavors and textures, so embrace the chance to make it your own! Looking for more sides? Try serving these with a zesty corn salad or classic Mexican rice for a complete feast!
Make Ahead Options
These Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and ensuring a juicy, tender finish. Simply place the marinade and steak in a resealable bag, refrigerate, and when you're ready, cook the steak and let it rest before slicing. Additionally, prepare the fresh salsa (diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt) up to 3 days in advance; store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its freshness. When it's time to serve, just assemble the tostadas by layering the sliced carne asada and toppings for a quick and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Enjoy a delightful homemade feast without the rush!
Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada Recipe FAQs
How can I select the perfect flank steak?
Absolutely! Look for flank steak that is bright red with minimal dark spots. The meat should be firm to the touch and have a bit of marbling for added flavor and tenderness. Avoid any cuts with excessive graying or a dry appearance.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store assembled tostadas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to serve again to maintain the crunch of the tostada shells.
Can I freeze the carne asada?
Yes, you can! To freeze the marinated flank steak, place it in a sturdy freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply transfer it to the fridge the night before to thaw overnight.
What if my tostadas become soggy?
Very! If your tostadas are soggy, it’s likely due to wet toppings. To avoid this, add toppings just before serving. If they’re already soggy, you can toast them lightly in a preheated oven for a few minutes to restore some crunch.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes! For those with gluten sensitivities, ensure your tostada shells are gluten-free. Additionally, adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your heat tolerance, and always ask guests about potential allergies to common ingredients like cilantro or avocado to keep everyone safe and happy.
How can I enhance the flavor of my carne asada?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding additional spices to your marinade, such as smoked paprika or a splash of orange juice. Letting the steak marinate for 2 hours rather than 30 minutes intensifies the flavor even more!
Savor Homemade Mexican Tostadas de Carne Asada Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper. Marinate the flank steak for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Preheat grill or skillet. Cook steak for 4-6 minutes on each side until desired doneness. Let rest before slicing.
- In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt to prepare fresh salsa.
- Layer sliced steak, lettuce, avocado, and salsa on tostada shells.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
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