Creamy Garlic Lime Cilantro Sauce With Jalapeños

This Creamy Garlic Lime Cilantro Sauce with Jalapeños is the ultimate condiment to elevate your meals. Whether you’re looking for a flavorful sauce for tacos, grilled chicken, or even as a dip for chips, this creamy sauce delivers a burst of fresh, tangy, and spicy flavors that will instantly enhance any dish. With the bright zing of lime, the earthy flavor of cilantro, and the perfect kick from jalapeños, this sauce is a must-try for those who enjoy bold and exciting flavors. It’s quick and easy to make, and once you try it, you’ll want to put it on everything!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh cilantro, garlic, and lime creates a refreshing and tangy sauce that complements a wide range of dishes.
2. Customizable Heat: The level of heat can be easily adjusted depending on how spicy you want it. Remove the jalapeño seeds for less heat or add extra for more kick.
3. Versatile: This sauce works great as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a salad dressing or dip.
4. Simple to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this creamy sauce in minutes using a blender.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge to have it on hand for quick meals throughout the week.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 bunch cilantro (stems and all)
• 1-2 limes (juiced)
• 1-2 jalapeños (stem removed)
• 5-10 cloves garlic
• 2 cups mayonnaise (Hellman’s or Duke’s preferred)

Variations

• Vegan Cilantro Sauce: Use your favorite vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based version of this sauce.
• Pollo Tropical Copycat Recipe: For a creamier version, use half mayo and half sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Paleo/Whole30-Friendly: Use avocado oil mayonnaise to make this sauce compliant with paleo and Whole30 diets.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer less heat, remove the ribs and seeds from the jalapeño. For more heat, add extra jalapeños or substitute with spicier peppers.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Add Ingredients to Blender

Add the cilantro (stems and all), lime juice, jalapeños, garlic, and mayonnaise into a high-speed blender.

Step 2: Blend Until Smooth

Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3: Store and Serve

Pour the sauce into a squeeze bottle or jar for easy dispensing. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for later use.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Blender Variance: The appearance of the sauce may vary depending on the power of your blender. If you notice any chunks, simply blend a bit longer.
• Adjust Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more lime juice to thin it out to your desired consistency.
• No Fresh Limes: If you don’t have fresh limes, you can use bottled lime juice like Nellie & Joe’s Key West Lime Juice as a substitute.
• Scrape Sides: Be sure to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed to ensure all ingredients are blended evenly.

How to Serve

• Tacos: Drizzle over fish, chicken, or veggie tacos for a zesty finish.
• Grilled Meat: Serve as a topping for grilled chicken, steak, or pork.
• Dips: Use as a dip for chips, fries, or roasted vegetables.
• Salads: Toss with greens as a creamy dressing or drizzle over a fresh vegetable salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container or squeeze bottle in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors may intensify as it sits.

Freezing

This sauce is best when fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Let it thaw in the fridge before using it again.

Reheating

This sauce is meant to be served cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. Just give it a good stir if it separates.

FAQs

1. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, this sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

2. Can I use other types of peppers instead of jalapeños?

Absolutely! You can substitute the jalapeños with any pepper of your choice, such as serrano or poblano, depending on the level of heat you prefer.

3. Can I make this sauce without mayo?

Yes, you can substitute the mayo with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier, lighter version.

4. What if I don’t like cilantro?

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.

5. How spicy is this sauce?

The spice level can be adjusted by removing the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño or adding more jalapeños for a spicier kick.

6. Can I use store-bought mayonnaise?

Yes, store-bought mayonnaise works fine. Hellman’s or Duke’s are preferred for the best flavor.

7. How can I make the sauce creamier?

To make the sauce extra creamy, you can blend in half sour cream or Greek yogurt with the mayo.

8. Can I freeze this sauce?

Yes, you can freeze this sauce for up to 2 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.

9. Can I make this sauce spicier?

Definitely! Add more jalapeños or opt for a spicier pepper to increase the heat.

10. Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?

Yes, if you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice can be used in place of fresh lime juice.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Lime Cilantro Sauce with Jalapeños is a versatile and delicious condiment that will transform any meal. Whether you’re topping tacos, grilling meat, or dipping your favorite snacks, this sauce adds a zesty, creamy punch of flavor that’s hard to beat. Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With various variations and the ability to customize the heat, you can tailor it to your personal taste. Make a batch today and elevate your meals with this irresistible sauce!

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