Name: Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds salmon fillet (skin-on or skinless); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon lime zest; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro; Lime wedges for serving

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If you’re craving something wonderfully fresh, zesty, and a tad bit sweet, look no further—Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil is a weeknight hero that never fails to impress. The magic is in the way the honey, lime, and fresh cilantro mingle in each bite, highlighting the natural richness of salmon. Not only is this recipe eye-catching with its glistening glaze and vibrant herbs, but it’s also fuss-free and comes together in just about half an hour. Whether you’re serving it to family or welcoming friends, this colorful main dish promises a burst of flavor and effortless elegance every single time.

Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil is its simplicity—just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients come together to create big, bold flavor. Each ingredient here does some heavy lifting: adding depth, sharpness, balance, or that final flourish of color.

Salmon Fillet (1½ pounds): The star of the show—choose a center-cut fillet for the juiciest, most even results.
Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and prevents the salmon from sticking to the foil while baking.
Honey (3 tablespoons): Brings a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the glaze.
Fresh Lime Juice (3 tablespoons): Infuses vibrant, tangy flavor that brightens every bite.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Freshly minced garlic gives a savory punch and wonderful aroma.
Lime Zest (1 teaspoon): Adds concentrated citrusy fragrance to amp up the lime factor.
Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): Lends a gentle heat—use it if you like a little kick!
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning; they tie all the flavors together.
Chopped Fresh Cilantro (¼ cup): A bright, herbal pop that finishes the dish with color and freshness.
Lime Wedges (for serving): Let everyone add an extra squeeze for more zip at the table.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil, then give it a quick spritz with cooking spray or a light brush of olive oil. This not only ensures easy cleanup, but also keeps the salmon from sticking, so you get that perfect presentation every time. Place your salmon fillet in the center of the foil, skin-side down if you have it, ready for its flavorful makeover.

Step 2: Mix Up the Lively Marinade

In a small bowl, grab a whisk and mingle together the olive oil, honey, freshly squeezed lime juice, minced garlic, aromatic lime zest, and those red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Season it all with salt and pepper. This mixture is what transforms this dish into Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil—sweet, tangy, and packed with flavor.

Step 3: Glaze the Salmon Generously

Pour your zesty marinade evenly over the salmon, making sure every inch is covered. Don’t be shy—use the back of a spoon or a silicone brush to spread that glaze into every nook and cranny. The blend of honey, garlic, and lime will seep into the fillet as it bakes, infusing every bite with irresistible flavor.

Step 4: Seal It Up and Bake

Fold the foil’s edges up and over the salmon, crimping them together to form a snug packet. This step locks in moisture and flavor, keeping your salmon buttery-soft and juicy. Slide the tray into the oven and let it bake for 15 to 18 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillet. The steam inside the foil gently cooks the salmon to absolute perfection.

Step 5: Broil for Gorgeous Caramelization

Carefully open the foil packet (watch out for the steam!) and switch your oven to broil. Give the salmon another 2 to 3 minutes under the broiler until the top is beautifully caramelized and just a little bit golden. This step is essential for getting those crave-worthy, sticky edges that make Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil totally irresistible.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Cilantro and Lime

Take the salmon out, sprinkle generously with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve with extra lime wedges on the side. The cilantro’s herbal crispness and the extra fresh lime juice really make those bright flavors pop!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil

Garnishes

For that Instagram-worthy finish, shower your salmon with a vibrant handful of chopped cilantro and a few sprigs for garnish. Tuck in some lime wedges along the platter so everyone can add a bright squeeze at the table. If you’re feeling fancy, a light drizzle of the leftover marinade from the foil takes it up a notch.

Side Dishes

Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil pairs gorgeously with fluffy rice, nutty quinoa, or a platter of simple roasted vegetables. Steamed broccoli, blistered asparagus, or crispy baby potatoes all work deliciously to soak up the saucy glaze. For a summertime touch, a corn and avocado salad adds color and even more freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving a crowd or want to make this dish extra special, try flaking the salmon over a bed of mixed greens for a hearty salad, tucking it into warm tortillas for salmon tacos, or layering it atop grain bowls filled with brown rice and crunchy veggies. The versatility of Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil means you can make it the star of any meal, from casual lunches to festive dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salmon is a delight, especially since the flavors deepen as they rest. Pop any extra Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the salmon separate from any sides to maintain their textures.

Freezing

If you want to freeze portions for another day, let your salmon cool completely. Wrap individual pieces in foil or plastic wrap, then stash them in an airtight freezer bag. The salmon will keep beautifully for up to 2 months, making it easy to have a flavorful, protein-rich meal on hand anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, simply unwrap the salmon and place it on a foil-lined baking sheet. Warm it in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes, or just until heated through. For a quick fix, the microwave works too—use short bursts at 50 percent power to avoid drying things out. Add a fresh squeeze of lime and more cilantro before serving to revive those bright flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your salmon completely and pat it dry before marinating. Slightly thicker fillets may need an extra couple of minutes in the oven.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil tastes fantastic cold or reheated, and leftovers are delicious flaked over salads, stuffed in wraps, or added to bowls for lunches throughout the week.

What can I use if I don’t like cilantro?

If cilantro isn’t your thing, try substituting with fresh parsley or even basil. Both bring a burst of green and fresh flavor that complements the salmon, though the unique herby note of cilantro is a signature here.

Can I grill the salmon instead of baking?

You sure can! Prepare the foil packet as directed and pop it on a preheated grill over medium heat. Grill for about 13–15 minutes, then open the packet and finish directly on the grill grates for a minute or two for that smoky touch.

How can I tell when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque in the thickest part. If you have a thermometer, look for an internal temperature of about 145°F. Avoid over-baking for the juiciest, most tender results.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to fall in love with fish dinners, Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil is calling your name. It’s quick to prepare, loaded with vibrant flavor, and easy enough to make any night feel special. Give it a try—you just might find yourself making it on repeat!

Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil Recipe

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4.8 from 28 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil recipe is a flavorful and easy way to prepare salmon. The combination of zesty lime, sweet honey, and aromatic garlic creates a delicious glaze that perfectly complements the tender salmon. Baking the salmon in foil helps lock in moisture and flavors, resulting in a moist and flaky fish that’s bursting with taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon:

1½ pounds salmon fillet (skin-on or skinless)

Glaze:

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lime zest
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish:

¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges for serving

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
Prepare the salmon: Place the salmon in the center of the foil.
Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, lime juice, garlic, lime zest, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture evenly over the salmon.
Seal the foil: Fold the sides of the foil up and over the salmon to seal it into a packet.
Bake the salmon: Bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet.
Broil the salmon: Open the foil and broil the salmon for 2–3 minutes until the top is slightly caramelized.
Finish and serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.