Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
Baked honey cilantro lime salmon in foil is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients and vibrant flavors. This recipe not only ensures a tender and flaky salmon fillet but also infuses it with a delicious garlic and honey lime glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its fresh taste and minimal cleanup.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have a healthy meal ready in about 30 minutes.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, lime, and cilantro creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the salmon.
- Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion, whether itβs a casual dinner or an elegant gathering.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking the salmon in foil means less mess and easy cleanup after your meal.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salmon recipe fits well into any balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation
To make the Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil, youβll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for cooking the salmon evenly without any mess.
- Aluminum foil: Keeps the salmon moist during cooking while making cleanup quick and easy.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the glaze ingredients before pouring over the salmon.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise measurements for perfect flavor balance in the glaze.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 1 large salmon fillet (see note)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Glaze
- Β½ cup butter (melted, see note)
- juice of 2 limes (plus one lime, thinly sliced)
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
For Garnish
- β cup cilantro (roughly chopped)
How to Make Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line and grease a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place the salmon on the foil and season it with salt and pepper on both sides to taste. Slip lime slices underneath the salmon for added flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Glaze
In a mixing bowl, stir together melted butter, lime juice, honey, and minced garlic until well combined. Pour this flavorful mixture over the seasoned salmon evenly.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon
Fold up the sides of the aluminum foil over the salmon. Donβt worry if it doesnβt cover it completely; this will help keep moisture in while baking. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through. Then switch your oven to broil mode and cook for another 5 minutes to achieve a nice golden finish.
Step 4: Serve
Once done, sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top of your baked honey cilantro lime salmon. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes!
How to Serve Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
Serving baked honey cilantro lime salmon in foil can enhance its delicious flavors and make for a beautiful presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will delight your guests.
Fresh Salad
- A refreshing side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the salmon.
Rice Pilaf
- Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs adds a nice texture and absorbs the tasty juices from the salmon.
Grilled Vegetables
- Colorful grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide a smoky contrast to the sweet and tangy salmon.
Quinoa Salad
- A zesty quinoa salad with black beans, corn, and lime juice pairs well with the salmon while adding protein and fiber.
Avocado Slices
- Creamy avocado slices served alongside offer a rich contrast that balances the dishβs sweetness.
Lemon Wedges
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the salmon just before serving brightens up the flavors even more.
How to Perfect Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
To achieve the best results with your baked honey cilantro lime salmon in foil, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh limes and cilantro will elevate the flavor of your glaze, making it more vibrant.
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Check for doneness: Salmon should flake easily with a fork when itβs done. Avoid overcooking for tender results.
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Customize seasoning: Feel free to adjust salt and pepper levels based on your preference to enhance taste.
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Experiment with garnishes: Adding sliced jalapeΓ±os or radishes can introduce an exciting twist to your presentation.
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Let it rest: Allow the salmon to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain moisture for juicier bites.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
Pairing side dishes with baked honey cilantro lime salmon in foil can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting pairing.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli lightly steamed retains nutrients while adding a healthy crunch.
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Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with diced vegetables offers an easy-to-make side that complements the dish perfectly.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide a deliciously sweet contrast to the savory salmon.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness that cuts through the richness of the fish.
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings a touch of summer freshness to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil even more delicious.
- Using dry salmon β Always choose fresh or properly thawed salmon. Dry salmon wonβt absorb the flavors well.
- Not seasoning enough β Donβt skimp on salt and pepper. Season both sides of the salmon to enhance its flavor.
- Skipping the lime slices β Lime slices add moisture and flavor. Always place them underneath the salmon for the best results.
- Overcooking the salmon β Keep an eye on cooking time. Salmon should be flaky but not dry, so check it around 15 minutes.
- Ignoring foil quality β Use heavy-duty foil for better heat retention. Thinner foil may tear and lose moisture during cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover salmon in an airtight container.
- Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
- Wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
- Oven β Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
- Microwave β Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop β Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, which helps keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil.
How can I make my salmon more flavorful?
Adding herbs like dill or parsley can enhance flavor. Experiment with different spices or marinades before baking.
Can I use frozen salmon for Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil?
Yes, just ensure itβs fully thawed before seasoning and cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
What should I serve with Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil?
Pair it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that balances flavors well.
How do I know when my salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145Β°F (62Β°C).
Final Thoughts
This Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Customize it with your favorite herbs or spices for a unique twist. Give it a try; youβll love how delicious and satisfying this dish can be!
Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil is a delightful weeknight meal that brings together the vibrant flavors of honey, lime, and cilantro to create a tender, flaky salmon fillet. This easy recipe requires minimal cleanup and can be prepared in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. The sweet and tangy glaze enhances the natural richness of the salmon, while cooking it in foil ensures that it remains moist and flavorful. Serve it alongside fresh salads or grain dishes to elevate your dining experience!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 large salmon fillet
- Salt and pepper
- Β½ cup butter (melted)
- Juice of 2 limes (plus one lime, thinly sliced)
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- β cup cilantro (roughly chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Place the salmon on the foil, season with salt and pepper, and add lime slices underneath.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, lime juice, honey, and garlic. Pour the mixture over the salmon.
- Fold the foil to seal the salmon inside and bake for 15-20 minutes. Switch to broil for an additional 5 minutes until golden.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg