Shellfish Free Smoky Paprika Cilantro Lime Marinade
Bold, smoky, and bright with citrus, this marinade packs serious flavor into a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Smoked paprika and cumin lay down a deep, earthy backbone while lime juice and zest cut right through with a sharp, refreshing lift. A touch of turmeric adds warmth and a gorgeous golden hue, and the fresh cilantro stirred in at the end keeps everything tasting vibrant and alive. Because it's built entirely from whole spices, olive oil, garlic, and herbs, there's zero guesswork about hidden seafood-derived additives or cross-contact risks that can sneak into store-bought marinades. Whisk it together in minutes and let it do the heavy lifting — 30 minutes transforms fish or thin cuts, while chicken and thicker proteins soak up even more complexity over a few hours. It keeps in the fridge for up to three days, so you can prep ahead and have a weeknight dinner that tastes anything but rushed.
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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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