Artificial Flavors Free Smoky Paprika Cilantro Lime Marinade
Bold, smoky, and bright with citrus, this marinade punches way above its weight for something that comes together in a single bowl. Every bit of flavor here comes from real, whole ingredients — smoked paprika, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, and a generous handful of chopped cilantro — so there's no need to reach for a bottled marinade loaded with hard-to-pronounce additives. That's genuinely good news for anyone trying to keep artificial flavors out of their kitchen without sacrificing depth or complexity. The smoked paprika does serious heavy lifting, giving the marinade that low-and-slow, almost grilled character before anything even hits the heat. A touch of turmeric adds warmth and a gorgeous golden hue, while the lime zest keeps everything tasting alive and fresh. It works beautifully on chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables depending on what you're in the mood for, and since it keeps in the fridge for up to three days, you can make a batch ahead and have a weeknight dinner shortcut ready to go.
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!