Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with bright, fresh flavors from lime and cilantro.
- Simple and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious and versatile; pair it with your favorite sides.
- A crowd-pleaser that looks impressive but is easy to make.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Lime slices (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush generously with the lime mixture.
- Scatter the cherry tomatoes around the salmon fillets. Drizzle a little of the lime mixture over the tomatoes as well.
- Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the salmon from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro. Garnish with lime slices.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Calories per serving: 330
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the lime mixture for a spicy twist.
- Herb Swap: Replace cilantro with fresh parsley or dill for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Medley: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus to the baking sheet for a heartier meal.
- Grill Option: Grill the salmon instead of baking for a smoky flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the salmon dry.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon fillets?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
2. What can I substitute for fresh lime juice?
You can use bottled lime juice or even lemon juice in a pinch, though fresh lime juice is best for flavor.
3. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs, making it a great choice for keto diets.
4. Can I use skin-on salmon?
Absolutely. Baking with the skin on helps retain moisture and adds flavor.
5. How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Can I skip the cherry tomatoes?
Yes, you can omit them or replace them with another vegetable, such as bell peppers or zucchini.
7. What sides go best with this dish?
Rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad pair beautifully with this salmon.
8. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the lime mixture in advance and marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours before baking.
9. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can substitute salmon with cod, halibut, or trout. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
10. What’s the best way to zest a lime?
Use a microplane grater or a fine grater to gently remove the green zest without getting the bitter white pith underneath.
Conclusion
Baked cilantro lime salmon is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and a joy to eat. Whether you’re serving it for a quick dinner or an elegant meal, it’s sure to impress. Try it with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to garnish with extra lime slices for a burst of freshness!
Baked Cilantro Lime Salmon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This baked cilantro lime salmon recipe is a zesty, healthy, and flavorful meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions. Fresh lime, garlic, and cilantro pair beautifully with tender salmon for a quick 15-minute dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Lime slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light grease coating.
- Prepare Lime Mixture: Mix olive oil, lime juice, zest, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Season Salmon: Place salmon on the baking sheet and brush with the lime mixture. Scatter cherry tomatoes around and drizzle remaining mixture over them.
- Bake: Cook for 12–15 minutes or until salmon is flaky and cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with cilantro and garnish with lime slices. Serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Add cayenne pepper for extra spice.
- Swap cilantro with parsley or dill for a new flavor twist.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
