Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon

Cilantro lime honey garlic salmon is a delicious, flavorful dish that combines sweet, tangy, and savory notes in every bite. Perfectly seared salmon fillets are coated in a luscious honey garlic sauce and finished with fresh cilantro and zesty lime. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or an impressive dinner for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
• Bursting with flavor: Sweet honey, tangy lime, and savory garlic create a balanced and mouthwatering sauce.
• Healthy: Packed with protein, omega-3s, and fresh ingredients.
• Versatile: Perfect with rice, veggies, or salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Honey
• Lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• Lime zest
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Salt and pepper

Directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the salmon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the fillets release easily from the pan. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in honey, lime juice, lime zest, and soy sauce, whisking to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Combine the salmon and sauce: Return the salmon fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top to coat. Let it cook for 1 minute to warm through.
5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for heat.
• Citrus twist: Swap lime juice with lemon or orange juice for a different citrus flavor.
• Herb alternatives: Use parsley or basil instead of cilantro for a fresh twist.
• Glazed option: Brush the sauce onto the salmon and broil for a caramelized finish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to avoid overcooking.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon (without sauce) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat with fresh sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before cooking for the best results.

2. What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

3. Can I bake the salmon instead?

Yes, bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, then add the sauce during the last 5 minutes.

4. Can I substitute honey?

Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey.

5. How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

7. Can I make this dish without cilantro?

Yes, omit the cilantro if you’re not a fan, or replace it with parsley or green onions.

8. What type of salmon works best?

Fresh, wild-caught salmon like sockeye or coho offers the best flavor, but farm-raised works well too.

9. Can I use the sauce for other proteins?

Absolutely, the honey garlic lime sauce pairs well with chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

10. Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, cook the salmon and store it with the sauce in separate containers for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Cilantro lime honey garlic salmon is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its tender, flaky salmon, sweet and tangy sauce, and fresh cilantro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner from the comfort of your kitchen!

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