Description
This Cilantro Lime Honey Garlic Salmon Baked in Foil is a quick and healthy Mexican-inspired main course featuring tender salmon fillets glazed with a zesty mixture of honey, garlic, lime, and fresh cilantro. Baked in foil to lock in moisture and flavor, this dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon and Marinade
- 1.5 pounds salmon fillet (skin-on or skinless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish (Optional)
- Lime slices
- Extra fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it with nonstick spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Salmon: Place the salmon fillet in the center of the foil, skin-side down if you are using a skin-on fillet to keep the fish moist during baking.
- Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, minced garlic, lime juice, lime zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined for a flavorful glaze.
- Apply Sauce and Cilantro: Pour the sauce evenly over the salmon, then sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro on top to infuse it with fresh herb notes.
- Seal the Packet: Fold the sides of the foil up and over the salmon creating a sealed packet that traps steam and locks in flavors while baking.
- Bake: Place the foil packet on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes depending on thickness, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Broil (Optional): Open the foil carefully and place the salmon under the broiler for 2–3 minutes to caramelize the top for additional sweetness and texture, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with extra fresh cilantro and lime slices if desired. Serve immediately with your choice of rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- For bolder flavors, marinate the salmon in the honey garlic lime sauce for 15–30 minutes before baking.
- This recipe can also be cooked on the grill: place the foil packet over medium heat and cook for the same duration as baking.
- Serve alongside rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a nutritious and balanced meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
