Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Lime Cilantro Grilled Salmon?
It is a refreshing seafood dish featuring salmon fillets or steaks seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, then cooked with a tangy lime juice, cilantro, and olive oil mixture.
How many calories are in a serving of this salmon?
Each serving contains approximately 150 calories.
What are the primary ingredients for the marinade?
The marinade consists of extra virgin olive oil, lime juice, chopped fresh cilantro, and a small amount of Splenda.
Is this recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, this recipe is very low in carbs, containing only 2.7 grams per serving.
How much protein does this salmon dish provide?
This recipe provides 16 grams of protein per serving.
What seasonings are used on the salmon?
The salmon is seasoned with a blend of garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Can I use salmon steaks or fillets?
Yes, the recipe works perfectly with either one pound of salmon steaks or fillets.
How long does it take to cook the salmon in the skillet?
The salmon takes about 4-5 minutes per side, for a total cooking time of roughly 8-10 minutes.
Why is Splenda used in this recipe?
Splenda is used as a sugar substitute to balance the acidity of the lime juice without adding extra sugar or calories.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, with its high healthy fat content from the salmon and olive oil, and very low carbs, it is excellent for a ketogenic lifestyle.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, you can substitute fresh minced garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
What type of oil is recommended for this recipe?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon is done when it is golden on the outside and flakes easily with a fork.
Do I need to preheat the pan?
Yes, preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat before adding the salmon to ensure a good sear.
Can I use lemon juice instead of lime?
While lime gives it a specific zesty profile, lemon juice can be used as a substitute if limes are unavailable.
Is it necessary to use a nonstick skillet?
A nonstick skillet is recommended to prevent the salmon from sticking and to make flipping easier.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is highly recommended for the best flavor, but you can use dried cilantro in a smaller quantity if necessary.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How should I serve this salmon?
It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad for a light, healthy meal.
Does this recipe contain shellfish?
No, this recipe is shellfish-free and safe for those with shellfish allergies.
Can I cook this on an outdoor grill?
Yes, you can adapt this for an outdoor grill; just be sure to oil the grates or use a grill basket.
Is there a lot of fat in this dish?
Each serving contains 7.3 grams of fat, most of which comes from the healthy omega-3 fatty acids in the salmon and olive oil.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Absolutely, you can easily double the ingredients to serve more people.
What is the serving size for this recipe?
The recipe is based on 1 pound of salmon, which typically serves 2 to 4 people depending on portion sizes.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Can I freeze the cooked salmon?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months, though the texture is best when eaten fresh.
Is this a quick meal to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and can be prepared in under 20 minutes.
Does the salmon need to marinate for a long time?
No, the mixture is poured over the salmon while it's cooking, so there's no need for long pre-marinating.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is tangy and savory but not spicy. You can add red pepper flakes if you prefer heat.
Is this recipe heart-healthy?
Yes, salmon is known for being heart-healthy due to its high omega-3 fatty acid content.