Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil

Name: Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large salmon fillet; Salt and pepper (to taste); ½ cup melted butter; Juice of 2 limes (plus lime slices for garnish); 4 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; ⅓ cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

August 10, 2025

Updated:

August 10, 2025

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Baked honey cilantro lime salmon in foil is a delicious and easy meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This recipe features tender, flaky salmon coated in a sweet and tangy honey lime glaze, delivering exceptional flavor in just 30 minutes. Plus, cooking salmon in foil not only simplifies cleanup but also locks in moisture, making each bite incredibly juicy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready to bake in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, lime, and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the salmon to new heights.
Versatile Serving: Perfect for a family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe suits all occasions.
Healthy Meal Option: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, this baked salmon is not only tasty but also nutritious.
Easy Cleanup: Cooking in foil means less mess and quick cleanup after your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start preparing your baked honey cilantro lime salmon, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Aluminum foil
Mixing bowl
Whisk or fork
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for cooking the salmon evenly without any risk of tearing.
Aluminum foil: Essential for locking in moisture and flavor while ensuring easy cleanup.
Mixing bowl: Allows for easy combining of the glaze ingredients before applying them to the salmon.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

1 large salmon fillet (see note)
salt and pepper (to taste)
½ cup butter (melted) (see note)

For the Glaze

juice of 2 limes (plus one lime, thinly sliced)
4 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon minced garlic

For Garnish

⅓ cup cilantro (roughly chopped)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely 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 grease it lightly. Place the salmon fillet on top of the foil and season it with salt and pepper on both sides. Slip slices of lime underneath the salmon for added flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, lime juice, honey, and minced garlic. Whisk together until well blended. Pour this mixture over the salmon evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Salmon

Fold up the sides of the foil over the salmon to create a sealed packet (it’s okay if it doesn’t cover completely). Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. After baking, switch your oven to broil mode and cook for an additional 5 minutes until slightly caramelized on top.

Step 4: Serve

Once cooked, sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked honey cilantro lime salmon!

How to Serve Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil

Serving baked honey cilantro lime salmon in foil can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions.

Fresh Salad

Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A refreshing mix of diced cucumbers and juicy tomatoes, dressed with a light vinaigrette.
Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices sprinkled with lime juice and cilantro to complement the salmon’s flavors.

Rice Options

Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with lime zest and chopped cilantro for a vibrant side that pairs beautifully.
Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty wild rice pilaf mixed with herbs and nuts adds texture and flavor contrast.

Grilled Vegetables

Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grilled until tender, these vegetables provide a smoky flavor that enhances the salmon dish.
Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled or roasted to perfection add a touch of elegance.

Bread Choices

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread slices are perfect for soaking up the delicious honey lime glaze.
Crusty Baguette: A fresh baguette allows you to enjoy every bite of salmon alongside its flavorful juices.

How to Perfect Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil

Perfecting your baked honey cilantro lime salmon in foil can enhance its taste and presentation. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect dish.

Bold seasoning: Use generous amounts of salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the salmon.
Fresh ingredients: Always opt for fresh lime juice and herbs to achieve the best taste in your glaze.
Foil wrapping technique: Ensure the foil is tightly sealed around the salmon while allowing some space for steam to circulate.
Broiling finish: Broil the salmon briefly at the end for a caramelized top that adds depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil

Pairing side dishes with baked honey cilantro lime salmon can make your meal even more delightful. Here are some great options that complement this main course beautifully.

Quinoa Salad: A nutritious quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing adds a healthy touch.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Caramelized sweet potatoes provide a sweet contrast to the tangy flavors of the salmon.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli drizzled with olive oil keeps it light yet flavorful alongside the rich salmon.
Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch and balances out the meal nicely.
Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower serves as a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs offers an easy yet elegant side that complements all flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil can be quick and delightful, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon should be tender and flaky. To avoid overcooking, check for doneness at the 15-minute mark and adjust cooking time as necessary.
Not Seasoning Properly: Skipping salt and pepper or under-seasoning can dull the flavors. Make sure to season both sides of the salmon generously before baking.
Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter or lime juice can affect the glaze’s consistency. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother sauce.
Forgetting to Line the Foil: Not lining the foil properly can result in sticking. Make sure to grease it well to ensure easy removal of the salmon after baking.
Skipping Cilantro Garnish: Leaving out cilantro means missing out on that fresh flavor. Always sprinkle chopped cilantro on top before serving for added brightness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place salmon in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water and cover with a lid, allowing it to steam for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil?

It takes about 15-20 minutes to bake the salmon, plus an additional 5 minutes on broil for a nice finish.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking for even cooking results.

What should I serve with Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. The flavors complement light sides beautifully.

Can I customize the glaze for Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon?

Absolutely! You can add spices like chili powder or paprika for a kick or switch honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.

Final Thoughts

Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil is not just easy but also incredibly versatile. The combination of honey and lime offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess that elevates any meal. Feel free to customize this recipe according to your taste preferences by adding different herbs or spices. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple yet delicious it is!