Paraben Free Smoky Paprika Cilantro Lime Marinade
Bold, smoky, and bright with citrus, this marinade is the kind of thing that makes weeknight grilling feel like a real event. Extra virgin olive oil forms the base, while fresh lime juice and zest cut right through the richness with a clean, tangy punch. Smoked paprika and cumin bring deep, earthy warmth, and a touch of turmeric adds both color and complexity without overwhelming the other flavors. Fresh garlic and chopped cilantro round everything out, making the whole mixture feel vibrant and alive rather than flat or powdery. For anyone navigating paraben-free living, store-bought marinades and sauces can be a minefield of preservatives and synthetic additives hiding in plain sight on the label. This one is built entirely from whole spices, fresh herbs, and real citrus — nothing processed, nothing artificial, nothing you'd need to look up. It comes together in minutes with just a bowl and a whisk, and it works beautifully on fish, chicken, or vegetables depending on what you're in the mood for. Make a batch, keep it in the fridge for a few days, and you've got a go-to that's as clean as it is genuinely delicious.
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!