Description
This Baked Cilantro Lime Salmon with Avocado Salsa is a quick, easy, and healthy dinner option featuring tender salmon fillets marinated in a tangy cilantro lime mixture and baked to perfection. Topped with a fresh and flavorful avocado salsa made with ripe avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and more cilantro, it’s a refreshing and nourishing seafood dish perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (without skin)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 Tbsp cilantro, chopped (leaves & stems are ok)
- Smoked paprika, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
For the Avocado Salsa:
- 1 large avocado, diced (or 2 small avocados)
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 Tbsp cilantro, chopped (leaves & stems are ok)
- ½-1 lime, juiced
- Salt, to taste
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Make the salsa: In a small bowl, combine the diced avocado, chopped cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze the juice of half to one lime over the mixture and season with salt and cracked black pepper to taste. Mix gently to combine, then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
- Marinate the salmon: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. Brush this mixture generously over each salmon fillet. Sprinkle smoked paprika, salt, and cracked black pepper evenly over the fillets.
- Bake the salmon: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven and plate each fillet. Spoon the chilled avocado salsa over the salmon and serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best flavor impact in the marinade.
- If you prefer your salsa less tangy, start with ½ lime and adjust to taste.
- Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth; adjust quantity based on your spice preference or omit if you prefer.
- Make sure not to overbake the salmon to keep it moist and tender.
- Avocado salsa is best served fresh; consume within a day to avoid browning.
- For skin-on fillets, cooking times may vary slightly; monitor doneness carefully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
