I love making this cilantro lime salmon when I want something fresh, vibrant, and full of bold flavor. The bright citrus and fragrant cilantro pair beautifully with tender, flaky salmon. I find it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or even a light, impressive meal for guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I appreciate how fast and simple this recipe is to prepare. The marinade comes together in minutes, and the salmon cooks quickly while staying moist and flavorful.
I also enjoy how balanced the flavors are. The tangy lime juice, fresh cilantro, and subtle garlic create a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon. It feels light yet satisfying.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon lime zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
salt to taste
black pepper to taste
lime wedges for serving
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, I whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
I place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush the cilantro lime mixture evenly over each piece.
I bake the salmon for about 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Once cooked, I serve the salmon immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.
Servings and timing
I find that this recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes
Variations
I sometimes grill the salmon instead of baking it for a slightly smoky flavor. When grilling, I cook it skin-side down over medium heat until cooked through.
For extra heat, I add a pinch of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the marinade. I also like serving the salmon over rice, quinoa, or inside tacos for a fun twist.
storage/reheating
I store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I warm it gently in the oven at a low temperature or briefly in the microwave to avoid drying it out. I can also enjoy it cold, flaked over salads or mixed into grain bowls.
I do not usually freeze cooked salmon, as the texture can change, but it can be frozen if tightly wrapped and used within 1 to 2 months.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lime juice?
I prefer fresh lime juice for the brightest flavor, but I can use bottled lime juice in a pinch.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
I check that the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I cook this in a skillet?
Yes, I can cook the salmon in a skillet over medium heat for about 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
What can I serve with cilantro lime salmon?
I like pairing it with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It also goes well with black beans and corn.
Can I marinate the salmon ahead of time?
I can marinate it for about 15–30 minutes before cooking, but I avoid marinating too long because the lime juice can begin to break down the fish.
Conclusion
I find this cilantro lime salmon to be a bright and flavorful dish that is both easy and impressive. It is fresh, healthy, and incredibly versatile. Whenever I want a quick seafood meal with bold taste, this is a recipe I happily turn to.
