This Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce (or dressing) is delicious and comes together in less than 5 minutes.
It’s a creamy, blended sauce that uses cilantro, lime juice, and yogurt or sour cream as the primary flavors. It’s the perfect go-to when you’re short on time but still want something quick, easy, and full of flavor.
No matter if you’re making tacos, burrito bowls, salads or sandwiches, this sauce will make your meal even better.
The best part? You only need a handful of ingredients and a blender or food processor (or even a whisk if you’re in a pinch).
Why you will love this recipe
Quick & Easy – This dipping sauce comes together in less than 5 minutes, perfect for busy days.
Fresh & Flavorful – Cilantro and lime give it that bright, zesty kick, and they’re both packed with nutrients that support long, healthy living.
Super Versatile – Use it as a dip, salad dressing, or drizzle it makes everything from tacos to salads taste better.
Light but Creamy – Since we didn’t use mayonnaise, only yogurt (or sour cream), it’s silky smooth without being heavy.
Crowd-Pleaser – It’s one of those sauces that makes people ask, “What’s in this?”
Cilantro Sauce or Dressing Ingredients
Cilantro
Cilantro is the star of this recipe, and fresh is absolutely the way to go if you want that “wow” factor. It gives the sauce its vibrant green color and that unmistakable, zesty flavor. Dried cilantro or other herbs just can’t compare – so for the best results, always stick with fresh bunches.
You can use both the cilantro stems and the cilantro leaves, with no leftovers.
Lime
Freshly squeezed lime juice is key here. I like to use the zest as well for extra tang, and that refreshing citrus kick that ties everything together. You want to use the organic limes. Bottled lime juice works in a pinch, but the flavor is never quite the same.
Garlic infused Olive Oil or Avocado Oil
Garlic adds depth, but raw garlic can sometimes overpower the fresh lime and cilantro combo. That’s why garlic-infused olive oil works perfectly.
Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream
This is what makes the sauce creamy and smooth. Plain Greek yogurt keeps it light and tangy, while sour cream gives it a richer flavor. Choose whichever you prefer or even mix the two.
Salt & Pepper
Just a pinch of each is enough to enhance all the other flavors.
Ground Cumin
Just a pinch brings gentle warmth and a slightly smoky note. It’s a small touch, but it makes the sauce feel more balanced and grounded.
Other dips and sauces you may want to try
Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce Recipe
First step: Blend it up
Add fresh cilantro, lime juice, yogurt (or sour cream), garlic-infused olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to a high-speed blender or a food processor and pulse until everything is combined. Stop and scrape down the sides of the blender, then blend once more until the sauce is silky smooth.
Be sure to leave some small visible bits of cilantro in there for a better taste.
Second Step: Adjust to taste and serve
Taste and add more lime, salt, or cumin if you like and pour drizzle over tacos, salads, grain bowls, or use it as a dip with veggies and fries.
Note:
If you don’t have a blender (or simply don’t feel like cleaning one), you can still make this sauce. Finely chop the cilantro and whisk it together with the rest of the ingredients until combined. The sauce will be a little chunkier and thicker, so add extra lime juice or a splash of water if you’d like to thin it out.
Tips to make the best lime sauce
- For a thinner dressing-style sauce, blend in 1–2 tablespoons of water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Roughly chop the cilantro before adding it to the blender. Long stems can get tangled around the blades, so cutting them first (or even snipping with kitchen shears, or tearing by hand) makes blending smoother.
- For a dairy-free option, skip the yogurt or sour cream and use ½ cup of soaked cashews instead. Soak them overnight (or in hot water for an hour if you’re short on time), then blend for a rich, creamy, lime plant-based sauce.
Variations
Add half a ripe avocado to the blender for an even creamier, richer sauce with healthy fats.
Toss in half a jalapeno (seeds removed for less heat, or keep them in for more).
Stir in a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the lime’s sharpness.
Replace half the yogurt with tahini for a nutty, Mediterranean-inspired version.
green onion
How to use this sauce?
This creamy green sauce is one of those kitchen staples you’ll reach for again and again. Think of it as a fresh, zesty homemade sauce that works anywhere you’d normally use ranch dressing or another favorite condiment.
Drizzle it over lime chicken or any grilled chicken for an instant flavor upgrade.
Spoon it on black bean tacos, fish tacos, or any taco night spread, this sauce brings the whole plate together.
Use it as a dip for veggies, fries, or chips, just like you would with ranch.
Add a dollop to burrito bowls, grain bowls, or alongside your favorite Mexican food for a creamy finish.
Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cilantro loosely packed
- Juice of 1 lime about 2–3 tablespoons
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons garlic-infused olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add fresh cilantro, lime juice, yogurt (or sour cream), garlic-infused olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to a high-speed blender or a food processor and pulse until everything is combined. Stop and scrape down the sides of the blender, then blend once more until the sauce is silky smooth.
- Be sure to leave some small visible bits of cilantro in there for a better taste.
- Taste and add more lime, salt, or cumin if you like and pour drizzle over tacos, salads, grain bowls, or use it as a dip with veggies and fries.
