Description

This creamy cilantro garlic sauce is a flavorful and versatile condiment featuring fresh cilantro, garlic, jalapeños, and zesty lime juice. Its smooth texture and vibrant taste make it perfect as a dip, drizzle over grilled meats, tacos, or roasted vegetables. The combination of mayonnaise and sour cream creates a rich base, balanced by the bright acidity of lime and the gentle heat from jalapeños.

Ingredients

Scale

Fresh Ingredients

1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, loosely packed
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1 jalapeño pepper, seeds and ribs removed for less heat
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (about 1-2 limes)

Dairy and Oils

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon olive oil

Seasonings

1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Additional

1-2 tablespoons water, to thin if necessary

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Instructions

Process Cilantro and Garlic: In a food processor, combine the fresh cilantro leaves and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped and uniformly mixed.
Add Jalapeño: Add the chopped jalapeño pepper to the food processor. Pulse again until all ingredients are finely minced, ensuring even distribution of heat.
Incorporate Creamy Base: Add the mayonnaise and sour cream to the processor. Pulse several times to blend thoroughly with the cilantro, garlic, and jalapeño mixture, creating a creamy texture.
Blend in Lime and Seasonings: Pour in the freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Blend continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, achieving a silky consistency.
Adjust Consistency: Assess the sauce’s thickness. If it’s too thick for your preference, add 1-2 tablespoons of water and pulse to incorporate. Repeat as needed to reach the desired pourable texture.
Season to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as necessary to balance flavors perfectly.
Serve or Store: Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl or airtight container. Serve immediately or refrigerate for enhanced flavor development.

Notes

Removing the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño significantly reduces the heat, so adjust according to your spice preference.
For a vegan version, substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.
This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Use the sauce as a dip, salad dressing, or drizzle over grilled meats and veggies for extra flavor.
If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse less and avoid fully blending the ingredients.