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Bowl of cilantro lime sauce topped with fresh cilantro.
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5 from 1 vote

Cilantro Lime Sauce

This cilantro lime sauce is the kind of thing you make once and then immediately start putting on everything. It's creamy, tangy, garlicky, herb-packed, and just the right amount of acid thanks to fresh lime juice And honestly? It’s one of those sauces that makes even the simplest meals taste restaurant-level.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time0 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: sauce
Cuisine: American, Tex Mex
Servings: 6
Author: Serene

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp garlic minced
  • ½ bunch cilantro
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 wedge lime juice freshly squeezed

Instructions

  • Combine the ingredients in a food processor or blender. Pulse until combined and cilantro is blended, no large leaves remain.
    Ingredients needed to make cilantro lime sauce in a food processor.
  • Pulse until combined and cilantro is blended, no large leaves remain.
  • Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
    Bowl of cilantro lime sauce.

Notes

Tips for Best Flavor
  • Use fresh lime juice – Bottled doesn’t taste the same.
  • Keep the cilantro stems! They blend well and add lots of flavor.
  • Let it chill – 30 minutes in the fridge lets flavors really come together.
  • Adjust to taste – Add more lime for tang, jalapeño for heat, or salt to bring it all together.

Storage Tips
  • Fridge: Store in a sealed jar for up to 1 week.
  • Freezer: Freeze in small portions (ice cube trays work great!) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
Make It Your Own
  • Spicy: Add some jalapeño for a bit of heat.
  • Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream alternative.
  • Thinner consistency: Add a splash of milk until pourable.

Use It On
  • Tacos, burrito bowls, quesadillas
  • Grilled meats or shrimp
  • Salads (thin it out into a dressing)
  • Veggie trays or as a chip dip

Nutrition

Calories: 121kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 277mg | Potassium: 41mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 224IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 34mg | Iron: 1mg