Gelatin Free Smoky Paprika Cilantro Lime Marinade
Bold, smoky, and bright with citrus, this marinade brings serious depth to whatever you're cooking — chicken, fish, roasted vegetables, you name it. Smoked paprika and cumin form a warm, earthy backbone, while fresh lime juice and zest cut right through with a pop of acidity that keeps everything lively. A touch of turmeric adds color and subtle earthiness, and the fresh cilantro stirred in at the end keeps the whole thing tasting vibrant rather than heavy. Many store-bought marinades and sauces sneak in thickeners or stabilizers that can be a concern, but this one is built entirely from whole spices, fresh aromatics, and good olive oil — nothing hidden, nothing processed. It comes together in one bowl with just a whisk, which makes it genuinely weeknight-friendly. The timing guidance built into the recipe is smart: a quick 30-minute soak works beautifully for fish, while chicken thighs or thicker cuts can go up to several hours for maximum flavor penetration. Make a batch at the start of the week and you've got a go-to flavor booster ready in the fridge for days.
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!