Cilantro Lime Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cilantro Lime Dressing is a vibrant, zesty blend that brings a burst of freshness to any salad, taco, or grilled dish. With the bright tang of lime and the bold herbaceous flavor of cilantro, this creamy dressing adds a punch of flavor without overpowering your meal. It’s quick to make, versatile, and a healthy alternative to store-bought dressings.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh cilantrolime juicegarlicolive oilGreek yogurthoneysaltblack pepperjalapeño (optional, for a spicy kick)water (to adjust consistency)

directions

Add the cilantro, lime juice, garlic, Greek yogurt, honey, salt, and pepper to a blender or food processor.

If desired, add a small piece of jalapeño for heat.

Blend until the mixture is mostly smooth.

With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until fully incorporated.

Add a bit of water as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Transfer to a jar or bottle and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of dressing.Preparation time: 10 minutesChill time: 30 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.

Add avocado for a creamier texture and richer taste.

Swap honey for maple syrup or agave for a vegan version.

Include a pinch of cumin or chili powder for a smoky twist.

Use lime zest for extra citrus punch.

storage/reheating

Store Cilantro Lime Dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.Shake or stir well before each use as natural separation may occur.Not suitable for reheating; serve chilled or at room temperature.

Cilantro Lime Dressing

FAQs

Can I make this dressing without a blender?

Yes, finely chop the cilantro and whisk all ingredients by hand, though the texture will be less smooth.

Is this dressing dairy-free?

As written, it includes Greek yogurt. Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative to make it dairy-free.

How spicy is it?

Without jalapeño, it’s mild. Add or adjust the amount of jalapeño to control the spice level.

Can I freeze cilantro lime dressing?

Freezing is not recommended due to the yogurt base, which may separate when thawed.

What can I use this dressing on?

It’s great on salads, tacos, grain bowls, grilled meats, and roasted vegetables.

Can I use dried cilantro?

Fresh cilantro is recommended for the best flavor. Dried cilantro won’t provide the same vibrant taste or color.

Conclusion

Cilantro Lime Dressing is a quick, easy, and flavor-packed way to enhance your meals with a refreshing twist. Whether you’re dressing a salad, topping a taco, or dipping veggies, this dressing is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Print
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Cilantro Lime Dressing

Cilantro Lime Dressing

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  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 cup 1x
  • Category: Dressing
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A zesty and creamy cilantro lime dressing perfect for salads, tacos, or as a marinade.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 12 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Add all ingredients to a blender or food processor.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, lime juice, or honey if desired.
  4. Transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes

  • Can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • For a thinner dressing, add a splash of water or extra lime juice.
  • Use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 2mg

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