Let me just say — this Cilantro Lime Marinade is everything. It’s zesty, garlicky, and packed with bright, fresh flavor.
I’ve been using this on everything from grilled chicken to roasted veggies and even as a quick dressing for taco bowls. It’s one of those recipes you’ll memorize fast because you’ll want to make it again and again.
🥬 What You’ll Need
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, loosely packed
- 2 limes, zested and juiced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeds removed for less heat
💚 Why I Love This Recipe
This is one of those recipes I came across while trying to use up leftover cilantro—and it’s been a keeper ever since. It’s so versatile and comes together in under 10 minutes.
- Perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory
- Works for meats, veggies, seafood, and more
- Keeps in the fridge for days
- Made with pantry and fridge staples
🍽️ Servings & Time
- Makes: About 1 cup (enough for 4–6 servings of meat or veggies)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The acid in lime juice breaks down proteins in meat, which makes it super tender. Garlic brings a punch of savory flavor, while the olive oil helps carry all those fresh herbs and spices deep into whatever you’re marinating. Honey rounds it all out with a touch of sweetness that balances the lime.
🧑🍳 Pro Tips
- Use fresh lime juice — Bottled just doesn’t hit the same.
- Chop garlic finely if you’re not using a food processor for smoother texture.
- Add jalapeño for a mild heat without overpowering the flavor.
- Let it rest — After blending, let the marinade sit for 5–10 minutes so flavors can meld.
- Double it! It keeps in the fridge for 4–5 days and is super handy.
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- Citrus zester
- Garlic press or microplane
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small blender or food processor
- Small jar or bowl for serving or storage
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- No cilantro? Try fresh parsley or a mix of parsley and basil.
- No honey? Use agave or maple syrup.
- Make it creamy: Add 1–2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or avocado.
- More heat? Leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add red chili flakes.
⏳ Make-Ahead Tips
- Blend the marinade and store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for quick, single-use portions.
🧾 Instructions
1. Wash and prep your cilantro
Rinse cilantro thoroughly and pat dry. Remove any thick stems.
2. Zest and juice the limes
Use a microplane to zest the limes, then juice them.
3. Mince the garlic
Peel and finely mince 3 garlic cloves.
4. Add everything to blender or food processor
Add cilantro, lime juice and zest, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, salt, pepper, cumin, and jalapeño (if using) to your blender.
5. Blend until smooth
Blend until the marinade is smooth but still has some texture.
6. Transfer to jar and let rest
Pour into a jar or bowl and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before using.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
- Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freeze in ice cube trays for up to 1 month.
- Shake well or stir before using again — it may separate a little!
🍽️ What to Serve It With
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Roasted veggies
- Tacos or fajitas
- Rice bowls or salads
- As a dip for bread or pita
💡 Meal Plan Ideas
- Monday: Marinate chicken for taco night
- Wednesday: Use as dressing for a quinoa salad
- Friday: Drizzle over grilled veggies
- Weekend meal prep: Freeze some to use next week
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Using bottled lime juice — Always go fresh!
- Skipping the rest time — Letting it sit helps blend the flavors.
- Too much garlic — Stick to the recommended amount, or it can overpower.
- Over-blending — You want a little texture, not a puree.
❓ FAQ
Can I make this without a blender?
Yes! Just chop everything really fine and mix well.
Is it spicy?
Only if you add the jalapeño. You can skip it for a milder version.
Can I use dried cilantro?
Fresh is best here. Dried won’t give you that bright flavor.
How long can I marinate meat with this?
30 minutes to 2 hours is perfect for chicken or seafood. Up to 24 hours for beef.
🥗 Let’s Wrap It Up
You’re gonna love how easy and flavorful this marinade is. It’s bright, herby, garlicky, and seriously takes any dish up a notch. Try it out and let me know how you used it — I’d love to hear your twist on it or answer any questions. Leave a comment below when you make it!