Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mouthwatering salmon recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico! This Salmon Lime Cumin Paprika dish is not just a meal, it's a flavor explosion that combines the richness of perfectly cooked salmon with the tangy brightness of lime and the warm, earthy notes of cumin and paprika. Perfect for seafood lovers and spice enthusiasts, this recipe promises to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 salmon fillets, 2 limes, ground cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the seasoning adhere better.
- In a small bowl, combine the juice of the 2 limes, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture until well combined.
- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the lime and spice mixture over them, ensuring that each fillet is evenly coated. Let the salmon marinate for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the salmon is marinating, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on this side, or until the salmon is nicely browned and releases easily from the pan.
- Gently flip the salmon fillets using a spatula and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the salmon from the skillet and let it rest for a minute. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the salmon moist.
- Serve the salmon fillets warm, garnished with additional lime wedges if desired. This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Pat your salmon fillets completely dry before marinating to ensure the best seasoning absorption and a perfect sear.
- Use fresh lime juice for the most vibrant flavor - bottled juice can taste flat.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking to ensure each fillet gets a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Use a meat thermometer if you want precision: salmon is perfectly cooked at 145°F (63°C).
- Let the salmon rest for a minute after cooking to keep it moist and juicy.
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dash of chili flakes before serving.
- If you prefer, you can also grill or bake this salmon using the same marinade for different texture variations.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 302kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 70mg
