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Easy Chili Lime Salmon Recipe with Garlic and Smoked Paprika

Easy Chili Lime Salmon Recipe

Tender baked salmon is brushed with a zesty chili-lime mixture made with garlic, cumin, paprika, and olive oil. Fresh cilantro and lime wedges complete this fast, flavorful fish dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chili Lime Salmon
  • 4 fillets salmon fillets, approximately 6 ounces (170 g) each
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lime zest
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 cloves finely minced garlic cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • as needed for serving lime wedges

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment and lightly oil it.
  2. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and place the fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. Combine the olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
  4. Brush or spoon the chili-lime mixture evenly over the tops of the salmon fillets.
  5. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon should flake easily and reach 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
  6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

Zest the lime before squeezing it for a stronger lime flavor. Do not marinate the salmon for more than about 20 to 30 minutes because the lime juice can affect the fish’s texture. For a lightly caramelized surface, broil for the final 1 to 2 minutes while watching closely.