Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon – Easy & Healthy

This cilantro lime honey garlic salmon is a flavor-packed dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly healthy. The combination of sweet honey, zesty lime, fragrant garlic, and fresh cilantro elevates the natural richness of salmon, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, Balanced Flavors: Sweet, tangy, and savory all in one dish.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

this Recipe

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

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime juice and zest
• Honey
• Garlic, minced
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, lime zest, and minced garlic. Set aside.
2. Season the Salmon:
   • Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the Salmon:
   • Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if applicable) and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the edges begin to brown.
4. Add the Sauce:
   • Flip the salmon and pour the honey-lime-garlic sauce over the fillets. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, spooning the sauce over the top as it thickens.
5. Finish with Cilantro:
   • Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped cilantro over the salmon. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for some heat.
• Grilled Version: Marinate the salmon in the honey-lime mixture for 15–30 minutes, then grill instead of pan-searing.
• Baked Salmon: Bake the seasoned salmon at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, adding the sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Herb Swap: Replace cilantro with parsley or dill for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, or in the microwave at 50% power to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw frozen salmon completely before cooking for the best texture and flavor.

Do I need to remove the skin?

You can cook the salmon with the skin on for added flavor and easier handling, but remove it if you prefer.

What’s the best way to ensure the salmon doesn’t stick?

Use a nonstick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron, and make sure the pan is hot before adding the salmon.

Can I use other fish?

Yes, this recipe works well with trout, cod, or halibut. Adjust cooking times based on thickness.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

Salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, simply reduce the amount of honey or use a keto-approved sweetener like erythritol.

Can I make the sauce thicker?

Let the sauce simmer for an extra minute or two in the skillet to reduce and thicken.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement this salmon perfectly.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, make the salmon and store it in the fridge. Reheat and pair with prepped sides for easy meals.

Conclusion

Cilantro lime honey garlic salmon is a simple, delicious dish that delivers on flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy a perfectly balanced meal that’s as easy to make as it is to savor!

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