Creating the Easy Zesty Chili Lime Marinade is simple and straightforward. Just follow these steps:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients listed above to ensure you have everything on hand.
2. Mix Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the fresh lime juice and olive oil. Whisk them together until well blended.
3. Add Sugar: Stir in the honey or agave syrup until fully dissolved.
4. Incorporate Spices: Add the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the bowl. Mix until all spices are well combined.
5. Add Lime Zest: Grate the lime’s zest directly into the marinade for an extra burst of lime flavor.
6. Mix Well: Whisk the marinade one last time to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
7. Taste and Adjust: Give the marinade a taste. Feel free to adjust salt, lime, or sweetness to suit your preferences.
8. Marinate: Place your chosen protein or vegetables in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the top, making sure everything is well-coated. Seal or cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes or longer for more intense flavor.

These easy steps will guide you to create a vibrant and flavorful marinade effortlessly. You’ll be captivated by how simple it is to enhance your dishes!