Gelatin Free Citrus-Garlic Marinade

Total time10 min

Prep time10 min

Cook time0 min

4.5

(16)

Bright citrus, pungent garlic, and warm spices come together in this vibrant marinade that makes chicken, pork, or fish taste like something you'd order at a restaurant. The combination of fresh orange juice, lemon, and zest gives it a punchy acidity that tenderizes protein naturally, while ginger and turmeric add an earthy, golden depth that's genuinely hard to resist. Many store-bought marinades and flavor packets sneak in gelatin-based thickeners or stabilizers, so mixing your own from scratch is the cleanest way to know exactly what's going into your food. Every single ingredient here is straightforwardly plant-based or pantry-staple, with no hidden additives to worry about. A quick 30-second whisk is all it takes to bring everything together into a glossy, cohesive sauce. The optional drizzle of raw honey rounds out the acidity with just enough sweetness to balance the bold garlic and rosemary. Make a batch at the start of the week and keep it in the fridge — it holds for up to three days and is ready whenever dinner inspiration strikes.

About Fig

Fig 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 fresh orange juice (from about 1 medium orange)
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
1 tsp lemon zest
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 tsp turmeric
½ tsp fine sea salt
1 tbsp raw honey (optional)

Instructions

1
Juice the orange and lemon into a small bowl, then finely grate the lemon zest directly into the bowl.
2
Add the olive oil, garlic, ginger, thyme, rosemary, turmeric, and salt to the citrus mixture. Add the honey, if using.

Want the full recipe?

Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!