Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning. This removes excess moisture and helps the spices adhere better to the fish. You might need to extend the cooking time by 2-3 minutes.

What if I don't have fresh limes?

Fresh is definitely best here, but in a pinch, bottled lime juice will work—just reduce the amount by about half since it tends to be more concentrated. You'll miss out on the fresh zest factor, but the dish will still be delicious.

Can I make this recipe with other types of fish?

This flavor profile works wonderfully with other firm fish like mahi-mahi or swordfish. For thinner fillets like tilapia, reduce the cooking time to about 8-10 minutes to prevent overcooking.

My family doesn't like spicy food. Can I still make this?

Definitely! Chili powder is more about flavor than heat. For an even milder version, use sweet paprika instead of chili powder and add a pinch of cumin for depth. You'll still get beautiful color and flavor without the spice.

Baked Chili-Lime Salmon Recipe

Name: Baked Chili-Lime Salmon Recipe
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Salmon; 1 salmon filet (about 1 pound); Seasoning; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Juice of 1 lime; Garnish; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional); 1 lime, cut into slices or wedges

Description

An easy, flavorful, and healthy recipe featuring zesty lime and smoky chili powder. This baked salmon is quick to prepare and packed with deliciously bold flavors, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Garnish with cilantro for extra freshness and serve with lime wedges for an extra zing.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon
1 salmon filet (about 1 pound)
Seasoning
2 teaspoons chili powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Juice of 1 lime
Garnish
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
1 lime, cut into slices or wedges

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Instructions

Preheat the oven.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Prepare the salmon.
Lay the salmon, scale side down, on the baking sheet. Sprinkle salt evenly over the top of the salmon. Then, take the chili powder and rub it generously over the surface of the salmon to create a flavorful coating.
Add lime juice.
Squeeze the juice of one lime over the salmon, ensuring the juice is evenly distributed. Use your hands or a spoon to spread the juice so it mixes with the chili powder and enhances the flavor of the seasoning.
Bake the salmon.
Place the baking sheet with the prepared salmon in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The fish will be cooked through and tender with a mildly charred crust.
Serve and garnish.
Once cooked, transfer the salmon to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for added freshness, if desired, and serve with lime slices or wedges on the side to elevate the flavors.

Notes

When choosing salmon, opt for wild-caught varieties for better flavor and nutrition.
To ensure even cooking, let your salmon come to room temperature before baking.
Adjust the chili powder based on your spice tolerance. For a milder flavor, reduce the quantity slightly.
This recipe pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 250
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 27g
Cholesterol: 60mg