AUTHOR PROFILE:
- Name: Chef Charlie
- Writing Style: Friendly, approachable, a little bit whimsical, loves to share personal anecdotes about cooking. Focus on the joy of cooking and eating.
EXAMPLE RECIPE:
- Recipe Name: Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce
GATHER THE FOLLOWING:
- (before writing): Ingredients
- (before writing): Equipment List
- (while writing): Actual Step-by-Step cooking process (including temperatures, times, and small cooking cues)
Here’s the article:
Table of Contents
Introduction
Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce: The BEST Recipe EVER!
A quick and easy Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce perfect for tacos, salads, grilled meats, and more.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1.5 cups
Category: Sauce
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition:
Protein: 0g
Carbs: 2g
Fat: 8g
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and roughly chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons water (for thinning, if needed)
Instructions
- Combine the cilantro, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, jalapeno (if using), salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- If the sauce is too thick, add the water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more lime juice for extra tang, more jalapeno for more heat, or more salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the sauce to a jar or container.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce is one of those flavor powerhouses that completely transforms any dish. Seriously! I remember the first time I tasted a similar sauce at a little taco stand by the beach during a family vacation. The sun was setting, the air smelled of the ocean, and this incredible sauce elevated simple fish tacos to something truly magical. I knew I had to recreate it, and after much tweaking, I’ve perfected my own version. That perfectly delicious version? This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. Get ready to add a zesty kick to all your favorite meals!
Why You Will Love This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe
This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce recipe is my go to for adding brightness and flavor to almost anything. What I truly adore about it (besides the taste, of course!) is how unbelievably simple it is to make. You just toss everything into a blender or food processor, and within minutes, you have a vibrant, creamy sauce ready to elevate your meal. And it’s incredibly versatile! From tacos and grilled chicken to salads and roasted vegetables, it enhances just about everything. This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.
Ingredients Needed for This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and roughly chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons water (for thinning, if needed)
How to Make This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe
Making this sauce is seriously easy! Here are the simple steps:
- 1. Combine the cilantro, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, jalapeno (if using), salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor.
- 2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- 3. If the sauce is too thick, add the water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- 4. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more lime juice for extra tang, more jalapeno for more heat, or more salt and pepper to taste.
- 5. Transfer the sauce to a jar or container.
- 6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is important to really deepen the flavor.
- 7. Serve and enjoy!
For an extra layer of flavor and texture with a very similar recipe, try this Avocado Lime Dressing.
How to Serve This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe
The possibilities are endless! Drizzle this Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce over tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. Use it as a dressing for salads or as a dip for vegetables. It is amazing as a marinade for chicken, fish, or shrimp before grilling or baking. It also elevates simple rice. A drizzle over roasted sweet potatoes or corn on the cob transforms them into a culinary experience. Garnish with extra cilantro and a lime wedge for a beautiful presentation.
How to Store This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe
Store your Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5 days. Freezing is not recommended, as the mayonnaise and sour cream can separate and change the texture upon thawing. If you find the sauce separates slightly in the fridge, just give it a good stir before serving.
Tips to Make This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe
For a smoother sauce, remove the cilantro stems before blending. If you don’t have fresh jalapeno, you can use a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. If you want a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives. Be careful not to over blend, as this can heat up the sauce and dull the flavors. Always taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Feel free to add a touch of honey or agave for sweetness, if desired.
Helpful Notes for This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe
The quality of your ingredients will affect the flavor of the sauce. Use fresh cilantro and lime juice for the best results. If you don’t have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute. A high speed blender or food processor will create the smoothest sauce. Remember, the jalapeno is optional, but it adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a touch of warmth.
Variation of This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe
For a spicier version, add more jalapeno or a pinch of cayenne pepper. To make a Creamy Cilantro Garlic Sauce, simply increase the amount of garlic to 3 or 4 cloves. You could also add a ripe avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats. In the fall, adding a bit of roasted poblano pepper will create an amazing seasonal twist.
FAQs About This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe
What makes this creamy cilantro lime sauce special?
This creamy cilantro lime sauce recipe uses expert-approved techniques and the freshest ingredients to create a balanced and flavorful sauce that’s perfect for a variety of dishes. It’s carefully crafted to be the best you’ve ever tasted!
What dishes pair well with Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce?
Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce is incredibly versatile! It’s delicious on tacos, grilled chicken or fish, salads, vegetables, and even as a dip for chips. Its tangy and refreshing flavor complements many cuisines!
How long does Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce can last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before using.
Can I make Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce without a blender?
While a blender provides the smoothest consistency, you can use a food processor or even finely chop the ingredients and whisk them together. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will still be fantastic!
Conclusion
Now you know how easy it is to make this incredibly versatile Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce. This sauce is your new secret weapon for adding a burst of flavor to countless dishes. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills! Don’t hesitate to comment below with any questions or variations you’ve tried. For more delicious recipes and daily inspiration, be sure to follow me on Pinterest at Charming Recipes. I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce as much as I do!