Print

Quick and Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce (5-Minute Recipe)

Close-up of a bright green, creamy cilantro lime sauce speckled with fresh chopped herbs in a white dipping bowl.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make this incredibly flavorful and zesty cilantro lime sauce in just five minutes. It is perfect as a versatile dipping sauce, dressing, or topping for tacos, grilled chicken, or fish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro, packed
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for creaminess
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded (optional, for mild heat)

Instructions

  1. Gather all your ingredients. You will need a food processor or blender for the best smooth texture.
  2. Place the fresh cilantro, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and the optional jalapeño into your blender or food processor.
  3. Secure the lid and blend on high speed until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy. Stop and scrape down the sides as needed.
  4. Taste the sauce. Add more salt or lime juice if you desire a stronger flavor.
  5. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, add water, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your preferred consistency.
  6. Transfer the finished cilantro lime sauce to an airtight container. You can use it immediately or chill it for later.

Notes

  • For a vegan option, use a plant-based mayonnaise or plain, unsweetened vegan yogurt.
  • This sauce is excellent as a fish taco sauce recipe; it pairs wonderfully with white fish.
  • You can make this a spicy cilantro sauce by leaving the seeds in the jalapeño or adding more than one.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavor deepens overnight.

Nutrition