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Easy 5-Minute Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce

Close-up of vibrant green, creamy cilantro lime sauce swirled in a small white ramekin.

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Make this zesty, homemade cilantro lime sauce in just five minutes. This versatile, creamy topping works perfectly on tacos, grilled chicken, or as a bright dipping sauce for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1 small jalapeño, seeded and roughly chopped (for heat)

Instructions

  1. Place the sour cream, mayonnaise, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper into a food processor or high-speed blender.
  2. If you want a slight kick, add the optional jalapeño now.
  3. Process or blend the ingredients until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed.
  4. Taste the sauce and adjust salt or lime juice if necessary to reach your preferred flavor balance.
  5. Transfer the finished cilantro lime sauce to an airtight container. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to combine.

Notes

  • For a lighter sauce, substitute all the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
  • If you do not have a food processor, finely mince the garlic and cilantro before blending with the liquids to prevent large chunks.
  • This sauce is excellent as a versatile meal topping for bowls or roasted vegetables.

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