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Quick Zesty Taco Sauce

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This 5-minute sauce combines creamy Greek yogurt with fresh cilantro, lime juice and seasonings for a versatile topping that enhances Mexican dishes.

Clare Greco
Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 16:12:34 GMT
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A wooden bowl filled with creamy green sauce, garnished with a sprig of cilantro, surrounded by tortilla chips and a lime half. Pin it
A wooden bowl filled with creamy green sauce, garnished with a sprig of cilantro, surrounded by tortilla chips and a lime half. | recipesbyclare.com

This Cilantro Lime Crema started as a simple taco topping in my kitchen but quickly became our go to sauce for everything. The combination of tangy Greek yogurt fresh cilantro and bright lime creates this perfect balance that makes any dish better.

Fresh and Versatile

The magic of this sauce is how it brightens up any dish it touches. That pop of lime and fresh herbs combined with creamy yogurt makes everything taste more vibrant. Plus it comes together in minutes.

What You'll Need

  • Plain Greek Yogurt: 1/2 cup, full-fat for the creamiest texture. Substitute with sour cream if desired.
  • Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup, for richness and to loosen the yogurt.
  • Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed, for a tangy zing.
  • Garlic: 1 clove, minced, for a garlicky bite.
  • Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon, for savory, umami flavor.
  • Cilantro: 1/4 cup chopped fresh leaves, for freshness and vibrant green flecks.
  • Sea Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, to enhance the flavors.

Let's Make It

Start with the Base
Blend your yogurt mayo and seasonings until smooth.
Add Fresh Herbs
Pulse in that cilantro keeping some texture for color.
Perfect the Flavor
Taste and adjust with more lime or salt if needed.
Ready to Serve
Use right away or let those flavors develop in the fridge.
A creamy green dip garnished with cilantro is shown in a bowl, surrounded by tortilla chips and lime wedges. Pin it
A creamy green dip garnished with cilantro is shown in a bowl, surrounded by tortilla chips and lime wedges. | recipesbyclare.com

Ways to Enjoy

We love this sauce drizzled over tacos enchiladas and grilled vegetables. It's amazing swirled into soups or used as a dip. The possibilities are endless.

Keep It Fresh

This crema stays good in the fridge for a few days and actually gets better as the flavors meld. Just give it a quick stir before using.

A bowl of creamy green dip is surrounded by lime wedges and tortilla chips on a wooden platter. Pin it
A bowl of creamy green dip is surrounded by lime wedges and tortilla chips on a wooden platter. | recipesbyclare.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use sour cream instead of yogurt?

Yes, sour cream can be used interchangeably with Greek yogurt in this recipe for equally good results.

→ How long does this keep?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make it thinner?

Add a splash of milk or extra lime juice to thin the sauce to desired consistency.

→ What can I serve this with?

Use on tacos, enchiladas, grilled vegetables, burritos, or any Mexican-inspired dishes.

→ Can I make it without a food processor?

Yes, finely chop cilantro and garlic by hand and whisk ingredients together. Texture will be slightly less smooth.

Cilantro Lime Crema

A creamy sauce combining Greek yogurt or sour cream with fresh cilantro, lime and garlic. Perfect for Mexican dishes.

Prep Time
5 Minutes
Cook Time
~
Total Time
5 Minutes

Category: Sauces & Marinades

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Mexican

Yield: 6 Servings (1¼ cups)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream.
02 2 tablespoons mayonnaise.
03 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice.
04 1 small garlic clove.
05 ½ teaspoon sea salt.
06 ¼ teaspoon onion powder.
07 ½ cup fresh cilantro.

Instructions

Step 01

Process yogurt, mayo, lime juice, garlic, salt and onion powder until creamy.

Step 02

Pulse in cilantro until smooth but flecks remain visible.

Notes

  1. Keeps 5 days refrigerated.
  2. Great on Mexican dishes.
  3. Can thin with lime juice if needed.

Tools You'll Need

  • Food processor.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (yogurt).
  • Eggs (mayonnaise).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 85
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g