Pistachio Free Cilantro-Lime Turmeric Marinade
Bright, punchy, and deeply aromatic, this marinade layers fresh lime juice and zest with golden turmeric, toasted cumin, and a generous handful of cilantro for a flavor combination that feels anything but ordinary. Every ingredient in the bowl is straightforward and easy to source — no specialty items, no hidden blends, and absolutely nothing to second-guess for anyone avoiding tree nuts. The olive oil and citrus emulsify into a glossy, herb-flecked coating that clings beautifully to chicken, fish, shrimp, or even thick-cut vegetables before they hit the grill or oven. A touch of cayenne brings gentle heat, and the optional honey rounds out the acidity without making things sweet — both are easy to leave out or dial up depending on your crowd. One of the best things about this marinade is that it actually improves with time; make it a day ahead and the garlic and turmeric settle into something richer and more complex. Thirty minutes is all you need for a quick weeknight dinner, but letting it work overnight takes the results to a whole other level.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp raw honey (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Zest and juice the limes directly into a small bowl, catching any seeds.
- 2
Add the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, turmeric, cumin, black pepper, and salt to the bowl. Add the cayenne and honey, if using. Whisk until the oil and lime juice are fully combined and the mixture looks uniform.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!