My summers growing up were spent at my aunt’s house, a place filled with the aroma of spices and laughter. She always had a knack for creating the most incredible sauces, and I remember being particularly captivated by her green sauce. It was tangy, spicy, and so incredibly fresh, and I would sneak spoonfuls of it straight from the blender.
Years later, I realized that magical green sauce was a version of what I now know and love as cilantro jalapeño lime sauce. It was the first thing I tried to recreate when I started cooking, and this recipe is my homage to those cherished memories. It’s the perfect blend of flavors that instantly transports me back to those sunny, carefree days.
And speaking of great sauces, you absolutely must try this ultimate smash burger sauce recipe. It’s another family favorite that we make all the time.
Why you’ll love this Creamy Cilantro Jalapeño Lime Sauce
- This cilantro jalapeño lime sauce is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time.
- The vibrant blend of cilantro, jalapeño, and lime creates a flavor explosion that’s both refreshing and exciting.
- It’s incredibly versatile; use it as a dip, a topping, a salad dressing, or even a marinade.
- You can easily customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of jalapeño, making it perfect for any palate.
- It adds a touch of freshness and zing to any dish, elevating your meals to a whole new level.
- This creamy cilantro jalapeño lime sauce is the perfect way to use up extra cilantro in your refrigerator.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thinning)
Directions
Step 1
Cilantro jalapeño lime sauce makes every moment feel comforting. Combine all ingredients (sour cream, cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper) in a food processor or blender.
Step 2
Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
Step 3
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more lime juice for extra tang, more jalapeño for heat, or more salt/pepper to taste.
Step 4
Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
For a vegan cilantro jalapeño lime sauce, simply substitute the sour cream with vegan sour cream or cashew cream. This will maintain the creamy texture while making the recipe plant-based. You can also add a touch of avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
If you prefer a less spicy sauce, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before blending. Alternatively, you could use half a jalapeño or even substitute it with a milder green chili. A serrano pepper can also add a different level of heat if you’re feeling adventurous.
Experiment with different herbs alongside the cilantro. A little bit of fresh parsley or mint can add a unique twist to the flavor profile. Try adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder for a smoky depth.
Pairings
This cilantro jalapeño lime sauce is a fantastic accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish. The bright, zesty flavors complement the smoky char of the grill perfectly. Drizzle it over grilled turkey breast or salmon for a burst of freshness.
It’s also a wonderful addition to tacos and burritos. Add a dollop to your favorite taco fillings for an extra layer of flavor and moisture. It’s especially delicious with chicken, beef, or vegetable tacos.
Consider using this sauce as a dip for crudités or tortilla chips. The creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it a crowd-pleasing appetizer. It’s also a great alternative to traditional sour cream or guacamole.
Serving ideas
Serve the cilantro jalapeño lime sauce in a small bowl alongside your main dish, allowing guests to add as much as they like. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a lime wedge for an extra touch of elegance. A colorful bowl can also enhance the presentation.
Drizzle the sauce over a salad for a zesty and refreshing dressing. It pairs well with salads that include grilled corn, black beans, and avocado. If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out this recipe for creamy jack cheese chicken on Fork Haven; it offers similar flavor profiles that would pair well with this sauce.
Use the sauce as a marinade for chicken or fish before grilling or baking. Let the meat marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. This will result in a tender and flavorful dish.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Store leftover cilantro jalapeño lime sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing other odors. A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid is ideal.
The sauce will typically last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. After that, the flavors may start to diminish. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming, such as a sour smell or changes in texture.
Freezing is not recommended, as the sour cream can separate and become grainy upon thawing. It’s best to make this sauce fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Make-ahead
You can easily make this cilantro jalapeño lime sauce a day or two in advance. This is a great option if you’re preparing for a party or gathering. Simply store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
When making the sauce ahead of time, consider waiting to add the lime juice until just before serving. This will help to preserve the vibrant green color and prevent the cilantro from oxidizing. Give it a good stir before serving to ensure all the flavors are well combined.
Consider prepping the individual ingredients in advance to save time. Chop the cilantro, mince the garlic, and seed the jalapeño ahead of time. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to blend the sauce.
Common mistakes when making Creamy Cilantro Jalapeño Lime Sauce
- Using too much jalapeño: Start with a small amount of jalapeño and add more to taste. It’s easier to add spice than to take it away.
- Not using fresh lime juice: Bottled lime juice lacks the bright, zesty flavor of fresh lime juice. Always use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best results.
- Over-blending the cilantro: Over-blending can make the cilantro bitter. Blend until just smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the food processor or blender.
- Not adjusting the seasonings: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more lime juice for extra tang, more jalapeño for heat, or more salt and pepper to taste.
- Skipping the optional water: If the sauce is too thick, adding a tablespoon of water at a time can help to achieve the desired consistency.
Final notes
This Creamy Cilantro Jalapeño Lime Sauce is more than just a condiment; it’s a burst of freshness and flavor that can elevate any meal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own.
The best part about this recipe is how simple it is to customize. Whether you like it mild or spicy, tangy or creamy, you can easily adjust the ingredients to create your perfect sauce.
So, go ahead and give this recipe a try! You’ll be amazed at how quickly and easily you can create a delicious and versatile sauce that will become a staple in your kitchen.
Loved this Creamy Cilantro Jalapeño Lime Sauce? Try these next
- Ultimate Smash Burger Sauce Recipe
- Old World Spaghetti Sauce
- Corn Black Bean Guacamole
- Jalapeno Popper Cheese Ball
Creamy Cilantro Jalapeño Lime Sauce
Whip up this vibrant and incredibly flavorful Creamy Cilantro Jalapeño Lime Sauce in minutes! It’s the perfect addition to tacos, grilled chicken, fish, or even as a zesty salad dressing.
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thinning)
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients (sour cream, cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper) in a food processor or blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more lime juice for extra tang, more jalapeño for heat, or more salt/pepper to taste.
- Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Notes
For a milder sauce, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño. Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This sauce is delicious on tacos, grilled chicken, fish, vegetables, or as a salad dressing. For a vegan option, substitute the sour cream with vegan sour cream or cashew cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 75
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg