Introduction

This Cilantro and Lime Salmon recipe brings a bright, fresh twist to your weeknight dinner. The zesty lime and fragrant cilantro perfectly complement the rich salmon, making it a delicious and healthy option that’s quick to prepare.

The image shows a cooked salmon fillet covered with a green herb sauce, which looks creamy and slightly chunky in texture. The salmon is cut into layers, with the pinkish-orange flesh visible underneath the sauce, and the fish appears tender and moist. On top of the salmon, there is a sprig of fresh cilantro adding a bright green color. In the background, there are two lime wedges with a fresh, juicy look. All of this is placed on a piece of foil resting on a white marbled surface, giving a clean and fresh feeling to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons oil
1 lime, juice and zest
2 tablespoons cilantro, coarsely chopped
1/2 jalapeno, coarsely chopped (optional)
1 clove garlic, coarsely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
2 pound salmon fillet

Instructions

Step 1: In a food processor, puree the oil, lime juice and zest, cilantro, jalapeno (if using), and garlic until the mixture is smooth.
Step 2: Place the salmon fillet on a sheet of foil on a baking tray. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels, season it with salt and pepper, then spread the cilantro and lime mixture evenly over the top.
Step 3: Bake the salmon in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) or cook on a barbecue until just cooked through, about 10-15 minutes depending on thickness.

Tips & Variations

If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the jalapeno or use less. You can also add a touch of honey to the marinade for a hint of sweetness.
For extra crisp skin, sear the salmon skin-side down in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes before baking.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or your favorite rice to complete the meal.

Storage

Store any leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying it out.

How to Serve

A cooked salmon fillet sits on crinkled aluminum foil on a white marbled surface, showing its pink flesh with a green herb sauce spread evenly over the top. The sauce is textured with small bits of herbs, covering the whole top layer. Two small lime wedges with a bright green outer skin are placed near the top left of the salmon. In the center of the fillet, a small bunch of fresh cilantro leaves adds a bright green color. A silver fork is gently lifting the corner of the salmon, revealing the flaky, soft interior. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before applying the marinade to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.

Can I prepare the cilantro and lime mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can make the mixture a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator for the flavors to meld even more. Just bring it back to room temperature before spreading on the salmon.

Cilantro and Lime Salmon Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 106 reviews

A vibrant and fresh cilantro and lime salmon recipe that combines zesty lime juice and aromatic cilantro with a hint of jalapeno and garlic. This quick and easy baked salmon is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, offering bright flavors balanced with tender, flaky fish.

Author: Kai
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade

2 tablespoons oil
1 lime, juice and zest
2 tablespoons cilantro, coarsely chopped
1/2 jalapeno, coarsely chopped (optional)
1 clove garlic, coarsely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Main Ingredient

2 pound salmon fillet

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: Puree the oil, lime juice and zest, cilantro, jalapeno, and garlic in a food processor until the mixture is smooth. This will infuse the salmon with fresh, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors.
Season the Salmon: Place the salmon fillet on a piece of foil on a baking sheet. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to ensure the marinade sticks well. Season the fillet lightly with salt and pepper.
Apply the Marinade: Spread the cilantro and lime puree evenly over the top of the salmon, coating it thoroughly to maximize flavor.
Bake the Salmon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the salmon in the oven for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until it is just cooked through. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Alternatively, you can cook the salmon on a barbecue for a smoky flavor.
Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro or lime wedges if desired.

Notes

If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the jalapeno or use less according to your taste.
Using foil makes cleanup easier and helps retain moisture in the salmon during baking.
Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fillet; check doneness to avoid overcooking.
This recipe pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: salmon, cilantro lime salmon, baked salmon, healthy salmon recipe, fish dinner, quick salmon, lime cilantro fish