Rice Free Smoky Paprika Cilantro Lime Marinade
This marinade is bold, bright, and deeply aromatic — the kind of thing that transforms a plain chicken breast or a handful of vegetables into something you'd genuinely be excited to eat. Smoked paprika and cumin lay down a warm, earthy backbone, while fresh lime juice and zest cut right through with a sharp citrus lift. A touch of turmeric adds color and depth, and the fresh cilantro stirred in at the end keeps everything tasting vibrant rather than heavy. Because it's built entirely from whole spices, fresh herbs, citrus, and olive oil, there's nothing here that sneaks in a grain-based filler or starchy additive — it's just clean, punchy flavor from start to finish. Whisking the oil and lime juice together first gives you a loose emulsion that coats proteins and vegetables evenly, so every bite picks up the full hit of spice. It comes together in minutes and keeps in the fridge for up to three days, making it easy to prep ahead for a week of seriously satisfying meals.
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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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