Name: Cilantro Lime Crema
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 small garlic clove; ½ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; ½ cup fresh cilantro

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The moment I first dipped a chip into a bowl of Cilantro Lime Crema, I knew I had discovered something magical. The creamy, zesty flavor danced on my taste buds, reminding me of sunny days spent with friends and family. This sauce has become a staple in my kitchen, effortlessly elevating any dish it graces. Whether it’s drizzled over tacos, served alongside grilled vegetables, or simply used as a dip for chips, Cilantro Lime Crema brings a burst of freshness that is simply irresistible.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
80 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Food Processor

The Beauty of This Cilantro Lime Crema

Versatile Flavor

One of the things I love about Cilantro Lime Crema is its versatility. It works perfectly as a dip, a salad dressing, or a topping for grilled meats or fish. You can use it in countless ways, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.

Easy to Make

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to enhance your meals, this crema is the answer. With just a few ingredients and a food processor, you can whip it up in a matter of minutes. No complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients are involved, making it accessible for any home cook.

Fresh Ingredients

The freshness of the ingredients in Cilantro Lime Crema cannot be overstated. With the vibrant flavors of fresh cilantro, zesty lime juice, and creamy yogurt, you’re treating yourself to a burst of health and flavor in every bite. It’s a sauce that not only tastes great but is also good for you.

Perfect for Summer

This crema is ideal for summer gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a picnic at the park, Cilantro Lime Crema adds a refreshing touch to your dishes that everyone will appreciate. It’s light, zesty, and pairs beautifully with seasonal vegetables and proteins.

Kid-Friendly

Even picky eaters will love Cilantro Lime Crema. Its creamy texture and balanced flavor profile make it a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to get your little ones excited about trying new foods!

Shopping List for Cilantro Lime Crema

To create the perfect Cilantro Lime Crema, you’ll want to gather a few key ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that creamy, zesty flavor we all love. The combination of fresh herbs, dairy, and tangy citrus makes this sauce not only delicious but also a healthy option for a variety of dishes.

1 cup whole milk Greek yogurt or sour cream – This forms the creamy base, providing richness and depth of flavor.
2 tablespoons mayonnaise – Adds an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice – Brings a zesty brightness to the sauce.
1 small garlic clove – Offers a subtle kick that enhances the overall taste.
½ teaspoon sea salt – Balances all the flavors perfectly.
¼ teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth and sweetness to the crema.
½ cup fresh cilantro – The star ingredient, bringing freshness and a vibrant green color.

Instructions for Cilantro Lime Crema

Making Cilantro Lime Crema is a breeze, and I can’t wait to share the steps with you! Just grab your food processor, and let’s get started with this creamy delight that will elevate your meals. Follow these simple steps, and enjoy the deliciousness!

In a food processor, place the yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, salt, and onion powder. These ingredients will blend into a rich, creamy base that sets the stage for the vibrant flavors to come. Process until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Next, add the fresh cilantro to the mixture. Pulse a few times until the sauce is smooth but still has visible green flecks from the cilantro. This step is essential to keep the sauce looking fresh and vibrant while ensuring that the herbaceous flavor shines through.
Once you’ve achieved the desired consistency, taste the crema and season it according to your preference. If you want a bit more tang, add a splash more of lime juice. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or more yogurt.
Transfer the Cilantro Lime Crema to a serving bowl or an airtight container for storage. This sauce is perfect for drizzling over your favorite dishes or as a dip for your chips and veggies.
Refrigerate the crema for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the crema even more delicious when it’s time to enjoy.
Serve the Cilantro Lime Crema as a flavorful accompaniment to tacos, grilled chicken, or any dish that could use a refreshing lift. Enjoy every creamy bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Freshness Matters: Always use fresh ingredients, especially the cilantro and lime juice, to achieve the best flavor.
Adjust to Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of garlic or lime according to your personal taste preferences.
Texture Preference: If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend the cilantro in less or pulse gently.
Make Ahead: This crema can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Ways to Customize

There are so many ways to make Cilantro Lime Crema your own! Here are some fun ideas to consider as you experiment with this versatile sauce.

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few jalapeño slices for a spicy kick.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or parsley for a unique flavor profile.
Creaminess Level: Adjust the ratio of yogurt to mayonnaise for a creamier or lighter sauce based on your preference.
Citrus Addition: Try adding some orange zest for a sweeter citrus flavor.
Thicker Consistency: If you prefer a thicker crema, use more Greek yogurt or reduce the amount of lime juice.
Serving Suggestions: Pair it with fresh vegetables, grilled fish, or as a topping for soups.

Perfect Pairings for Cilantro Lime Crema

When it comes to serving Cilantro Lime Crema, the possibilities are endless. Here are some savory pairings and serving ideas that enhance its fresh flavor.

Tacos: Drizzle over your favorite tacos for a creamy, zesty finish that complements the spices.
Grilled Chicken: Use as a marinade or topping for grilled chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.
Veggie Dips: Serve with fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a healthy snack.
Salads: As a dressing for green salads, Cilantro Lime Crema adds a refreshing twist.
Quesadillas: Spread on quesadillas for a creamy and zesty boost.
Rice Dishes: Use it as a topping for rice or grain bowls for added flavor.

FAQ

You can pair Cilantro Lime Crema with a variety of dishes! It works wonderfully as a dip for fresh vegetables or tortilla chips. For main courses, consider serving it with tacos, grilled chicken, or fish. It’s also a fantastic dressing for salads, adding a zesty twist. Don’t hesitate to get creative and use it in your favorite dishes!

Absolutely! You can make Cilantro Lime Crema ahead of time. In fact, it’s often better when the flavors have a chance to meld together in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Just store it in an airtight container, and it will keep well for up to a week in the fridge. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or for parties!

Yes, Cilantro Lime Crema is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products. The main ingredients are Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, and fresh herbs, all of which are gluten-free. However, always double-check the labels of any store-bought products you use to ensure they are gluten-free, especially the mayonnaise.

If you want to add a kick to your Cilantro Lime Crema, consider incorporating ingredients like chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even some hot sauce. Start with a small amount, so you can adjust the heat to your liking. This way, you can enjoy the creamy base while adding the spice that suits your palate!

Conclusion

The beauty of Cilantro Lime Crema lies in its bright, creamy, and versatile nature. Whether you’re using it as a dip, a dressing, or a topping, it enhances every dish with its fresh flavors. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a simple yet delicious addition to your culinary creations. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the smiles it brings to your table!