Vegetarian Cilantro-Lime Turmeric Marinade
Bright, punchy, and deeply aromatic, this marinade brings together fresh lime, golden turmeric, and a generous handful of cilantro into something that genuinely transforms whatever it touches. Every ingredient here is plant-based and straightforward — no fish sauce, no Worcestershire, no hidden animal products to second-guess at the grocery store. The olive oil carries the spices beautifully, while the lime juice tenderizes and the garlic adds real depth without any fuss. A little raw honey rounds out the heat from the optional cayenne, though the marinade holds its own without it. It comes together in a single bowl with just a whisk, and the flavors actually get better after a day or two in the fridge. Use it on tofu, halloumi, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls — anything that could use a bold, citrusy kick with serious golden color.
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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.
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