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Cilantro Lime Crema

A bright, creamy Mexican-inspired sauce made by blending sour cream with fresh cilantro and lime - perfect for tacos, grain bowls, and grilled meats.

10 minEasyServes 860 cal/serving

MexicanSauceBlenderVegetarianLow CarbHalal-friendlyGluten-FreeNut-FreeEgg-FreeSoy-FreeLow-SodiumPork-FreeAlcohol-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems, roughly chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp lime zest
  • 1 garlic clove, peeled
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 jalapeno pepper (optional), seeded, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine 1 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1/2 tsp lime zest, 1 peeled garlic clove, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt in a blender or food processor.

  2. 2

    Add 1/2 seeded, chopped jalapeno pepper (optional) if desired for a mild kick.

  3. 3

    Blend on high until completely smooth and creamy, about 30-60 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed.

  4. 4

    Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice.

  5. 5

    Transfer to a bowl or squeeze bottle. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Stir before serving.

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Questions

Is there a substitute for sour cream in Cilantro Lime Crema?

The entry for Cilantro Lime Crema calls for 1 cup sour cream. In its place: Full-fat plain Greek yogurt, measure for measure. In hot sauces, add it off the heat.

Is Cilantro Lime Crema spicy?

Moderately. The heat in Cilantro Lime Crema comes from 1/2 jalapeno pepper (optional), seeded, chopped. For a milder plate, remove the seeds and ribs from the jalapeno, or use half; nothing else in the method changes. For more, add it at the table rather than in the pot, so everyone sets their own level.

Can I make Cilantro Lime Crema dairy-free?

Yes. The dairy in Cilantro Lime Crema is 1 cup sour cream. Swap the sour cream for thick coconut yogurt with a squeeze of lemon. The richness shifts slightly, but the method does not change.

How many calories are in Cilantro Lime Crema?

One serving (the recipe makes 8) is about 60 calories, with 0 g protein, 5 g carbohydrate and 5 g fat, plus 21 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list.

How do I store and reheat Cilantro Lime Crema?

Refrigerate Cilantro Lime Crema in a sealed jar and use it within four to five days. Dairy sauces separate when frozen; reheat gently with a splash of milk instead of freezing.

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