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Two perfectly baked cilantro lime salmon fillets resting on a dark plate, showing the flaky texture and vibrant green cilantro.

Cilantro Lime Salmon (Easy, Healthy & Flavorful!)

This Cilantro Lime Salmon recipe is incredibly easy, healthy, and bursting with zesty flavor. Learn how to make it perfectly in under 30 minutes using your oven, grill, or a skillet for a delicious weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 salmon fillets about 6 oz each, skin-on or off
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice from about 2 limes
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup optional
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional, for a little heat

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Sheet If baking
  • 1 Large Skillet If pan-searing
  • 1 Grill If grilling

Method
 

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, honey (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish. Pour about 3/4 of the marinade over them, reserving the rest. Let marinate for 15-30 minutes.
  3. Choose your cooking method. BAKE: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake on a parchment-lined sheet for 12-15 minutes. GRILL: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side. PAN-SEAR: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook skin-side down for 4-6 minutes, flip and cook for another 3-5 minutes.
  4. Drizzle the remaining marinade over the cooked salmon and serve immediately.

Notes

Tip 1: Don't marinate the salmon for longer than 30 minutes, as the lime juice can start to break down the texture of the fish.
Tip 2: Ensure your grill grates or skillet are well-oiled to prevent the salmon from sticking.
Tip 3: The salmon is done when its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) or it flakes easily with a fork.