This creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce is bright, fresh, and full of flavor. Drizzle it over fish tacos, bowls, or grilled meats for an easy, restaurant-style finish.
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Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I’ve been making this sauce for years to drizzle over tacos and burrito bowls, and it’s especially good with seafood like Blackened Fish Tacos or shrimp. It also doubles as a dip for tortilla chips, which always seems to happen when I make a batch. It’s one of those recipes that instantly upgrades just about anything you drizzle it on.
If you’ve ever ordered fish tacos or bowls at a restaurant, you’ve probably had something similar to this. It’s often called a cilantro lime crema, and it’s that cool, tangy drizzle that pulls everything together.
It comes together in minutes in the food processor and keeps well in the fridge, so it’s easy to make ahead and have on hand. Low effort with big flavor payoff!
Ingredient Notes
- Sour cream + mayonnaise: This combo creates the perfect balance of tangy and creamy. I typically use light sour cream since it’s what I keep on hand and it works great. You can also use full-fat if you prefer. Plain Greek yogurt can be substituted for the sour cream, but it will be a little tangier.Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives the sauce its signature flavor. Use the leaves and tender stems for the best taste.
- Jalapeño: Adds a mild kick. Remove the seeds and ribs for less heat, or leave some in if you want it spicier. I recommend tasting a small piece before adding it so you can gauge the heat level.
- Lime juice: Fresh lime juice brightens everything up and ties the flavors together. Bottled won’t have quite the same flavor.
- Garlic: Just a small amount adds depth without overpowering the sauce.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together. Adjust to taste after blending.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Sauce
- Add all the ingredients to the bowl of a food processor or blender.
- Blend until creamy and well combined.
Valerie’s Tips
- Best Flavor: Removing the thicker stems from the cilantro before blending can help mellow the flavor. I’ve found it makes a big difference, especially for those who aren’t usually fans of cilantro.
- Consistency: If it’s too thick, thin it with a splash of water or a little extra lime juice.
- Make Ahead: Let it chill for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor. Give it a quick stir before serving.
- Lighten It Up: Use light sour cream or swap in plain Greek yogurt.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Stir before serving.
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Cilantro Lime Sauce
Ingredients
- ½ cup sour cream, full fat or light
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ½ bunch cilantro, thick stems removed
- ½ jalapeño, seeded and coarsely chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to the bowl of a food processor or blender and process until completely smooth. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated using generic ingredients, and is an estimate not a guarantee. For more accurate results, please refer to the labels on your ingredients at home.
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