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Five-Minute Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce (The Best Taco Sauce)

A close-up of vibrant green cilantro lime sauce served in a small white fluted ramekin on a wooden surface.
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You need this easy, creamy cilantro lime sauce for tacos, grilled chicken, or as a versatile green dip. It comes together in just five minutes and delivers a zesty, fresh flavor that fixes any bland meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for creamy texture)
  • 1 large bunch fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1 small jalapeño, seeded (for a spicy kick)

Instructions

  1. Gather all your ingredients. You will need a food processor or a high-speed blender for the smoothest result.
  2. Place the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, garlic cloves, lime juice, salt, and pepper into your blender or food processor.
  3. If you want a spicy cilantro sauce, add the seeded jalapeño now.
  4. Blend on high speed until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed. This usually takes about 60 seconds.
  5. Taste the sauce. If you want more tang, add another splash of lime juice. If you want it thinner, add a teaspoon of water until you reach your desired consistency for a dipping sauce.
  6. Transfer the finished cilantro lime crema to an airtight container. Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • For a healthier, lower-fat option, substitute all the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. This keeps the sauce thick and tangy.
  • If you do not have fresh lime juice, you can substitute up to 2 tablespoons of bottled lime juice, but fresh is always better for this zesty lime condiment.
  • This sauce is excellent as a fish taco sauce recipe or a marinade for chicken.
  • If you prefer a thinner dressing consistency, add water or a little extra lime juice, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the right pourable texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorandpin.com/cilantro-lime-sauce-recipe-quick-creamy/