Low Sugar Smoky Paprika Cilantro Lime Marinade
Bold, smoky, and bright with citrus, this marinade punches well above its weight for something that comes together in a single bowl. Smoked paprika and cumin build a deep, earthy backbone while fresh lime juice and zest cut right through with a clean, tangy lift. Turmeric adds a gorgeous golden hue and a subtle warmth, and the fresh cilantro folded in at the end keeps everything tasting vibrant and alive. Every single ingredient earns its place here — and not one of them is a sweetener. That matters more than you might think, because so many store-bought marinades sneak in honey, cane sugar, or corn syrup to balance acidity, leaving you guessing about what's actually in the bottle. This one relies entirely on the natural richness of olive oil, the brightness of real lime, and the complexity of whole spices to do that work. Whether you're coating chicken thighs, a firm white fish, or a tray of vegetables headed for the grill, this marinade delivers serious flavor without any compromise.
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
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- ¾ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
Instructions
- 1
Combine the olive oil, lime juice, and lime zest in a small bowl and whisk until the oil and juice are loosely emulsified.
- 2
Add the smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, cayenne (if using), garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the spices are fully incorporated and the mixture is uniform in color.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!