Whole30 Carne Asada Bowls: The Ultimate Guide to Healthy Grilling with Australian Grassfed Flank Steak
*Thank you to True Aussie Beef & Lamb for sponsoring this post!

Whole30 Carne Asada Bowls: Your Ultimate Guide to Healthy Grilling
Get ready to elevate your summer grilling experience with these incredible Whole30 Carne Asada Bowls! Perfectly suited for outdoor cooking and warm-weather dining, this recipe features succulent, marinated, and grilled Australian Grassfed flank steak that’s remarkably simple to prepare. These bowls are not just a meal; they’re a vibrant celebration of fresh flavors and healthy ingredients, making them an ideal choice for anyone following a Whole30, Paleo, or Keto lifestyle, or simply seeking a wholesome and delicious dinner.
I am thrilled to collaborate with my friends at True Aussie Beef & Lamb to bring you this fantastic recipe. Their commitment to quality and sustainable practices perfectly aligns with the ethos of clean eating, and their grassfed beef is the star of these unforgettable carne asada bowls. With a marinade bursting with natural ingredients like fresh lime juice, zesty orange juice, aromatic cilantro, a hint of spicy jalapeño, and earthy cumin, every bite promises an explosion of flavor. This dish is designed to kick off grilling season with a bang and keep your taste buds happy all summer long!

Why Choose Australian Grassfed Beef for Your Carne Asada?
When it comes to selecting the best beef for your recipes, the origin and feeding practices make a significant difference in both taste and nutritional value. Australia stands out as a global leader, producing some of the highest quality, healthiest, and most nutritious beef and lamb in the world. Their agricultural practices are rooted in deep respect for animal welfare and environmental stewardship, values that resonate deeply with conscious consumers and healthy eating advocates.
The Power of Grassfed Goodness
Cattle raised on vast, open pastures across Australia thrive on a natural diet of nutrient-rich grasses. This grassfed diet contributes to a leaner meat profile compared to traditional grain-fed beef, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals and those on specific dietary plans like Whole30. Australian grassfed beef naturally contains 13 essential nutrients vital for good health, including a robust supply of iron, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins. These nutrients are crucial for energy production, immune function, and overall well-being. Furthermore, the inherent leanness of grassfed beef often results in quicker cooking times – approximately 30% faster than conventional meat – which is a fantastic bonus for busy weeknights or impromptu grilling sessions.
Choosing True Aussie Beef & Lamb means you’re not just getting a delicious cut of meat; you’re supporting sustainable farming practices that prioritize the health of the animals and the planet. This commitment ensures a superior product that you can feel good about serving to your family and friends. To discover where you can find this premium Aussie Grassfed Beef & Lamb near you, simply click here. In my area, it’s readily available at major retailers like Giant, Safeway, and Weis Market, making it convenient to source these high-quality ingredients.

Crafting the Perfect Whole30 Carne Asada Bowl: Ingredients and Customization
The beauty of carne asada lies in its incredible versatility. While I’ve designed this recipe around a vibrant bowl concept, the marinated and grilled flank steak can easily be transformed into delicious street tacos, served simply alongside your favorite sides, or incorporated into various other Mexican-inspired dishes. The options truly are endless, making this a fantastic staple recipe to have in your repertoire.
Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Carne Asada
For this recipe, I recommend using a 2 lb Australian Grassfed flank steak, ideally between ¾ inch and 1 inch thick. Flank steak is prized for its rich beefy flavor and its ability to absorb marinades beautifully. If flank steak isn’t available, skirt steak makes an excellent alternative.
For the Zesty Marinade, You’ll Need:
- ⅓ cup high-quality olive oil or avocado oil
- Juice from 3 fresh limes
- Juice from 1 orange
- ¼ cup freshly chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tbsp coconut aminos (a Whole30-compliant soy sauce alternative, adds umami)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sea salt
This marinade is the heart of our carne asada, infusing the meat with bright, tangy, and subtly spicy notes. The citrus juices act as natural tenderizers, breaking down the meat fibers and allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. Coconut aminos add a touch of savory sweetness without any added sugars or soy, keeping it perfectly Whole30 compliant. Fresh cilantro and jalapeño bring that quintessential Mexican aroma and kick, while cumin and chili powder build a warm, complex spice base.
Building Your Vibrant Whole30 Carne Asada Bowls:
The components of these bowls are designed to complement the rich flavor of the carne asada, offering a balance of textures and nutrients. Here’s what I used:
- 4 cups of my delicious Coconut Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice (a fantastic low-carb, Whole30 base)
- Roasted Peppers, Onions, and Mushrooms: Simply toss 2 bell peppers (seeded and sliced), 1 onion (peeled and sliced), and 2 cups of sliced mushrooms with 1 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp sea salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Roast at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Freshly diced avocado
- Chopped fresh tomatoes
- Thinly sliced jalapeños (for an extra kick, optional)
- Extra lime wedges for squeezing over the finished bowls
These toppings add freshness, healthy fats, and additional layers of flavor and texture. If you’re looking to make Whole30-friendly tacos instead of bowls, I highly recommend Siete grain-free tortillas, which are delicious and compliant!

Mastering the Marinade and Grilling Process
The secret to exceptional carne asada lies in two crucial steps: marinating and grilling. Getting these right will ensure your flank steak is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Optimal Marinating Times and Techniques
For maximum flavor infusion, I recommend marinating the flank steak for a minimum of 3-4 hours. While you can certainly marinate it overnight for even deeper flavor, do not exceed 24 hours, as the citrus in the marinade can start to “cook” the meat, making it mushy. To marinate, simply whisk all the marinade ingredients together in a bowl, then pour it over the flank steak in a sealed plastic bag or a shallow dish. If using a dish, ensure the beef is fully submerged or flip it halfway through the marinating time to ensure even coverage.
Grilling Your Flank Steak to Perfection
Before grilling, remove the flank steak from the marinade and discard any remaining liquid. Heat your grill over medium-high heat. Achieving the perfect doneness for flank steak depends on your preference, but here’s a general guide:
- 5 minutes per side = Rare
- 6 minutes per side = Medium Rare
- 7 minutes per side = Medium (our preferred doneness, pictured below, offering a tender and juicy interior with a slight pink hue)
- 8 minutes per side = Medium Well
- 9-10 minutes per side = Well Done
Remember that these times are approximate and can vary based on your grill’s temperature, the thickness of your steak, and external factors. Always use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results. After grilling, it’s crucial to let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. When slicing, always cut against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness. Thinly sliced pieces are perfect for bowls and tacos.


Whole30 Carne Asada Bowls: Recipe Card
Whole30 Carne Asada Bowls
By: Mary Smith

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 25 mins
Yield: 4 people
These Whole30 Carne Asada Bowls are packed with tender Mexican-marinated and grilled flank steak and lots of veggies. Perfect for grilling all summer!
Ingredients
Steak
- 2 lbs Australian grassfed flank steak
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 3 limes, juiced
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1 tbsp coconut aminos
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
Roasted Veggies
- 2 bell peppers, seeded and sliced
- 1 onion, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp sea salt
Additional Bowl Ingredients
- 4 cups Coconut Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
- Sliced jalapeño (optional)
- Chopped tomatoes
- Fresh cilantro
- Limes, for squeezing
- Diced avocado
Instructions
- **Prepare the Marinade:** Whisk all of the marinade ingredients together in a bowl. Place the flank steak in a sealed plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it.
- **Marinate the Steak:** Marinate the flank steak for 3-4 hours minimum for maximum flavor. You can also marinate overnight.
- **Prepare the Grill:** Heat a grill over medium-high heat.
- **Grill the Steak:** Remove the flank steak from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade. Cook the steak for 7 minutes per side for a medium doneness. For medium-rare, grill for 6 minutes per side. For medium-well, aim for 8 minutes per side. Adjust according to your preferred level of doneness.
- **Rest and Slice:** Let the grilled steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
- **Assemble Bowls:** Serve the sliced steak in bowls over Coconut Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice, alongside roasted vegetables, and topped with diced avocado, tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Squeeze extra lime juice over everything before serving.
Roasted Veggies (if using)
- **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- **Prepare Veggies:** In a bowl, toss the sliced bell peppers, onion, and mushrooms with 1 tbsp olive oil and ½ tsp sea salt.
- **Roast:** Spread the seasoned vegetables out on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender, slightly browned, and beginning to crisp at the edges.
Nutrition
Calories: 624kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 55g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 20g | Cholesterol: 136mg | Sodium: 1142mg | Potassium: 1726mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 2222IU | Vitamin C: 194mg | Calcium: 138mg | Iron: 6mg
All nutrition facts are an estimate and automatically calculated. While I fact check them using My Fitness Pal, please note that they may not always be 100% accurate and depend on ingredients used. Weigh your total and divide by the number of servings for the most accurate grams per serving size.
If you make these Whole30 Carne Asada Bowls, I would love to see your creations! Be sure to tag me on Instagram @maryswholelife and rate & comment below to share your experience.
Have a safe and fun weekend!
xo,
Mary