What type of recruiter? If it is a recruiter from a recruiting firm then be honest about your number. They want to place you and they get paid based on the salary you get. I have had these recruiters tell me my number was too low and the company would pay more.
If it is a recruiter from the company doing the hiring, they want to pay you as little as possible. Do not give a number first. If forced, say "any reasonable market salary". If they still push, give a wide range like "somewhere in the $100k to $300k range" (assuming your goal is $200k)
If it is a recruiter from the company doing the hiring, they want to pay you as little as possible. Do not give a number first. If forced, say "any reasonable market salary". If they still push, give a wide range like "somewhere in the $100k to $300k range" (assuming your goal is $200k)