Celery Free Smoky Paprika Cilantro Lime Marinade
Bold, smoky, and bright with citrus, this marinade brings serious depth to whatever you decide to throw on the grill or roast in the oven. Smoked paprika and cumin lay down a warm, earthy backbone while fresh lime juice and zest cut right through with a zippy acidity that keeps everything balanced. A touch of turmeric adds color and subtle earthiness, and the optional cayenne gives you just enough heat to keep things interesting. Fresh cilantro stirred in at the end keeps the whole thing tasting vibrant and alive rather than flat or muddy. Everything comes together in a single bowl with a whisk — no blender, no special equipment, no fuss. It keeps in the fridge for up to three days, so you can make a batch ahead and have a flavor-packed marinade ready to go for fish, chicken, or vegetables whenever the mood strikes. Clean, whole ingredients with nothing hidden means you know exactly what's going in, which is always a win.
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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
- 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.
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