Baked honey cilantro lime salmon in foil is a fantastic dish that combines the sweetness of honey, the zest of lime, and the freshness of cilantro. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or entertaining guests. The salmon cooks to tender, flaky perfection in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks who still want to impress with delightful flavors and vibrant presentations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it great for weeknight meals.
- Flavorful Glaze: The garlic and honey lime glaze adds a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor to the salmon.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this recipe fits well into a balanced diet.
- Versatile Serving: Perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in foil means less mess and easy cleanup after enjoying this delicious meal.

Tools and Preparation
Preparing baked honey cilantro lime salmon in foil requires just a few essential tools. These tools will help you create this delectable dish effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for the salmon while it cooks evenly in the oven.
- Aluminum foil: Keeps the salmon moist by trapping steam, leading to tender, flaky fish.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients quickly without mess.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 1 large salmon fillet (see note)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Glaze
- ½ cup butter (melted) (see note)
- juice of 2 limes (plus one lime, thinly sliced)
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
For Garnish
- ⅓ 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 a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it.
- Place the salmon fillet on the foil and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Slip thin lime slices underneath the salmon to infuse flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Glaze
- In a mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, lime juice, honey, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Pour this mixture over the seasoned salmon fillet.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon
- Fold up the sides of the aluminum foil over the salmon (it doesn’t have to cover completely).
- Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
- Switch your oven setting to broil and cook for an additional 5 minutes to get a nice golden finish.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove from oven carefully; be cautious of hot steam when opening foil.
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top before serving warm.
Enjoy your delicious baked honey cilantro lime salmon in foil!
How to Serve Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
Baked honey cilantro lime salmon in foil makes for a delicious and vibrant dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Salad
- A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette complements the salmon perfectly.
Over Rice
- Serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful glaze.
In Tacos
- Flake the salmon and serve it in corn tortillas topped with avocado, cabbage, and a squeeze of lime for tasty tacos.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Pair it with seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a colorful plate.
On Whole Wheat Toast
- Spread the salmon over toasted whole wheat bread for a healthy open-faced sandwich option.
As Part of a Platter
- Include it on a platter with olives, cheese, and crackers for an elegant appetizer spread.
How to Perfect Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
Perfecting baked honey cilantro lime salmon in foil is easy with a few key tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your cooking experience.
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh limes and cilantro provide the best flavor compared to dried options.
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Check doneness: Use a fork to check if the salmon flakes easily; this ensures it’s cooked to perfection.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like cumin or chili powder for extra depth of flavor.
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Seal the foil well: Make sure to seal the foil well so that all flavors stay locked in during baking.
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Marinate beforehand: If you have time, marinating the salmon for 30 minutes can intensify its taste.
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Choose quality salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon when possible for better flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
Pairing side dishes with your baked honey cilantro lime salmon enhances the meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Quinoa Pilaf – A flavorful blend of quinoa cooked with vegetables and herbs adds nutrition and texture.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy make a sweet and savory contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice is a healthy addition.
- Couscous Salad – A refreshing couscous salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta balances the rich flavors of the salmon.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic are comforting and satisfying alongside fish.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with lime butter complements the citrus notes of the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people love preparing salmon, but a few common mistakes can hinder the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid when making Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil.
- Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season the salmon properly can result in bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking for enhanced taste.
- Overcooking the salmon: Cooking the salmon too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on the baking time to ensure it’s tender and flaky.
- Using too much honey: While honey adds sweetness, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced flavor.
- Skipping foil preparation: Not lining or greasing the foil can lead to sticking. Always prepare your foil to make serving easier.
- Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the salmon right after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest briefly before serving for maximum juiciness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
- Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- The salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place salmon on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Cover loosely with a paper towel and microwave on low power for about 1-2 minutes.
- Stovetop: Place salmon in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water; heat gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil.
How Do I Make Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil?
To prepare this dish, start by seasoning your salmon fillet and creating the honey lime glaze. Bake as instructed, ensuring you monitor cooking times closely.
Can I Use Other Types of Fish?
Yes! This honey cilantro lime glaze works well with other fish like tilapia or trout if you want variety.
What Can I Serve with Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil?
Pair it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal that complements this flavorful dish.
Is Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon Healthy?
Absolutely! This recipe is packed with protein and healthy fats while being low in carbohydrates, making it a nutritious choice.
Final Thoughts
Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. This dish makes a perfect weeknight dinner that’s sure to impress!
Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 2
Description
Enjoy this quick recipe for Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil—tender, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes! Try it tonight!
Ingredients
- 1 large salmon fillet
- ½ cup butter (melted)
- juice of 2 limes
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- ⅓ cup cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it.
- Season the salmon with salt and pepper, placing thin lime slices underneath.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, lime juice, honey, and minced garlic. Pour over the salmon.
- Fold the foil over the salmon loosely to seal in moisture. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
- Broil for an additional 5 minutes for a golden finish. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the salmon for up to 30 minutes before baking. Feel free to substitute other fish varieties like tilapia or trout if desired.




