Learn How to Make Cilantro Lime Crema, a white sour cream taco sauce with big flavor. Perfect for tacos, burritos, grilled chicken, or as a sour cream sauce for fish, this versatile condiment is a must-have in your recipe box. This sauce is quick and easy, taking only 5 minutes.
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What is Cilantro Lime Crema?
Cilantro lime crema is a creamy, tangy sauce made from sour cream, fresh cilantro, lime juice and zest, garlic, and salt and a few optional add-ins to enhance its flavor. It’s used as a topping for tacos, burritos, and grilled meats, adding a hint of acidity to balance the richness of any dish.
Cilantro lime crema has a thick texture that makes it perfect for dolloping over your favorite dishes. Think of it as a cilantro lime sauce recipe that is adaptable and versatile for many different meals.
Shopping List
- Sour Cream is a creamy base for the sauce. Greek yogurt can be subbed for a different flavor.
- Fresh Cilantro: Make sure to use fresh cilantro for the best taste. Parsley can be used in its place.
- Limes: Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended. Key lime juice can be used too!
- Garlic: enhances the flavor.
- Salt is added to brighten the flavors.
- Optional Ingredients: Jalapeño, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for heat, and honey for a touch of sweetness. For more flavor, you can add a few tablespoons of grated onion or onion powder.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Rinse the cilantro under cold water or swish it in a big bowl of water to remove the sand. Pat dry with a paper towel. Remove the thick stems and chop the leaves. You’ll need about one-half cup of loosely packed cilantro leaves.
- Zest one of the limes and set the zest aside. Cut the limes in half and squeeze out the juice.
- Peel and mince the garlic. Use one or two cloves of garlic, depending on your preference for garlic flavor.
- In a medium bowl, add the sour cream, chopped cilantro, lime zest and juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix well with a rubber spatula until smooth.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more lime juice for extra tang or a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier sauce.
Serving and Storage
- Allow the cream sauce to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will let the flavors meld together.
- Use as a topping for fish tacos, grilled chicken, broiled fish, or roasted vegetables.
- To store Cilantro Lime Sauce, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Before using, give it a quick stir.
Variations and Tips
Customize the crema to your liking.
- Use Greek Yogurt: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to make a lighter version of the sauce. This also adds protein and an extra tangy flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a jalapeño or serrano pepper for heat. Use the seeds and membranes sparingly to control the spice level.
- For Squeeze Bottles: If you want to put the crema in a squeeze bottle, add a splash of water or milk to make it more fluid.
- Honey for Sweetness: Add a teaspoon of honey or granulated sugar for spicy dishes.
How to Use Sour Cream Sauce
Whether you're looking to elevate your Taco Tuesday or need a quick dip for tortilla chips, this cilantro lime sauce is a game-changer.
- Tacos: Drizzle over fish, shrimp, or chicken tacos for a fresh flavor boost. The crema pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the protein.
- Burritos and Quesadillas: Use it as a dip or sauce for burritos and quesadillas.
- Grilled Meats: Serve as a condiment with grilled chicken or steak.
- Salad Dressing: Thin it out with a bit more lime juice for a cilantro lime salad dressing.
- Seafood: Use as a sour cream sauce for fish, such as grilled salmon or mahi-mahi.
- Rice Bowls: Drizzle over rice bowls for an added burst of flavor.
Takeaway
Cilantro lime crema is a simple way to add Mexican flavor to your meals.
Whether you’re looking for a cilantro lime sauce recipe to top your tacos or a sour cream sauce for fish, this easy flavorful crema is perfect.
Experiment with variations and enjoy the bright, refreshing taste of homemade cilantro lime crema in your dishes.
FAQ
Cilantro lime crema is a creamy sauce made from sour cream (or Greek yogurt), fresh cilantro, lime juice, and seasonings. It's a tangy topping that softens the load of spicy food.
Cilantro lime crema can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir before using, as it may separate over time.
Yes, cilantro lime crema can be made a day or two in advance. This allows the flavors to meld, resulting in an even tastier sauce.
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by substituting the sour cream or Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut yogurt or a cashew-based cream.
Freezing cilantro lime crema is not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing. It's best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
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"📖 Recipe"
Cilantro Lime Crema Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of 2 limes
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Rinse the cilantro under cold water or swish it in a big bowl of water to remove the sand. Pat dry with a paper towel. Remove the thick stems and chop the leaves. You’ll need about one-half cup of loosely packed cilantro leaves.
- Zest one of the limes and set the zest aside. Cut the limes in half and squeeze out the juice.
- Peel and mince the garlic. Use one or two cloves of garlic, depending on your preference for garlic flavor.
- In a medium bowl, add the sour cream, chopped cilantro, lime zest and juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Mix well with a rubber spatula until smooth.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more lime juice for extra tang or a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier sauce.
Notes
- Use Greek Yogurt: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to make a lighter version of the sauce.
- Spice it Up: Add a jalapeño or serrano pepper for heat. Use the seeds and membranes sparingly to control the spice level.
- Consistency Adjustment: If you want to put the crema in a squeeze bottle, add a splash of water or milk to make it more fluid.
- Honey for Sweetness: Add a teaspoon of honey or granulated sugar for spicy dishes.
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