Seed Oil Free Smoky Paprika Cilantro Lime Marinade
Extra virgin olive oil is the only fat in this marinade, which means you're completely clear of the refined vegetable and seed oils that sneak into so many store-bought sauces and bottled marinades. That single swap makes a real difference, and you'd never know it from the flavor — this is a bold, deeply aromatic blend that punches well above its weight. Smoked paprika and cumin lay down a warm, earthy backbone, while fresh lime juice and zest cut right through with brightness. Turmeric adds a subtle earthiness and a gorgeous golden hue, and the fresh cilantro stirred in at the end keeps everything tasting vibrant and alive. It comes together in one bowl with just a whisk, no cooking required. Use it on chicken, fish, or vegetables and let the marinade do the heavy lifting — the longer cuts like chicken thighs sit in it, the more that smoky, citrusy depth really settles in. It keeps in the fridge for up to three days, so you can mix a batch ahead and have a clean, flavorful marinade ready to go all week.
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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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