Cilantro lime sauce is my ten-minute cure for boring food: a big handful of cilantro blended with garlic, lime juice, and oil, thinned with water until it drizzles. It belongs on tacos and rice bowls and grilled vegetables, and it goes on all three in the same week here.
A Burst of Freshness: The Easiest Cilantro Lime Sauce
Tired of heavy, creamy sauces? Meet your new go-to condiment! This bright and zesty Cilantro Lime Sauce is a game-changer. Unlike traditional pesto, it uses just enough oil to create a luscious, pourable texture while letting the vibrant, fresh flavor of the cilantro shine through. It’s incredibly versatile—drizzle it over roasted vegetables, swirl it into a black bean soup, or use it as a marinade for tofu. Best of all, it comes together in just 10 minutes!
Ingredients
• MAKES: About 1 cupTIME: 10 minutes
• 2 cups / 40g (1.41 oz) loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 clove garlic
• 3 tbsp / 45ml peanut or neutral oil, like grapeseed or corn
• 1 tbsp / 15ml freshly squeezed lime juice
• Pinch of salt, to taste
• Water, as needed to thin
Instructions
1. Combine the cilantro, a pinch of salt, the garlic, and the oil in a food processor or high-speed blender.2. Process the mixture until it’s well combined, stopping to scrape down the sides of the container as necessary to ensure everything is incorporated.3. Add the freshly squeezed lime juice and blend for just another second to combine.4. Check the consistency. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little water, one teaspoon at a time, and pulse until you reach your desired texture.5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lime juice if needed. Serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information
• Serving Size: 2 tbsp. Calories: 45. Fat: 4g. (0.14 oz) Sodium: 75mg. Carbohydrates: 1g. (0.04 oz) Protein: 0.5g. (0.02 oz) Please note this is an estimate and can vary based on specific and quantities used.
Pro Tips
• Pro-Tips for the Best Cilantro Sauce
• Don’t discard the tender upper stems of the cilantro! They are packed with flavor and blend beautifully into the sauce, adding more depth than just the leaves alone.
• For a spicy kick, add 1 tablespoon (15 ml / 0.5 fl oz) of chopped ginger, an extra clove of garlic, and a seeded jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the food processor.
• Experiment with other fresh herbs! This recipe works wonderfully with parsley, basil, dill, mint, or any combination you love.
• To keep the sauce’s color brilliantly green during storage, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the container. This minimizes oxidation and browning.
FAQ
Q: How can I make this cilantro lime sauce creamy without dairy
A: For a rich, creamy texture, blend in half an avocado or 1/4 cup (960 ml) of soaked raw cashews. These additions create a luscious, dairy-free sauce perfect for bowls or as a dip for raw veggies.
Q: What vegetarian meals pair well with this sauce
A: This versatile sauce is fantastic with many vegetarian dishes. Drizzle it over roasted sweet potatoes and cauliflower, use it as a dressing for a quinoa and black bean bowl, spread it on a veggie burger, or toss it with grilled tofu and vegetable skewers.
Q: Can I add a protein boost to this sauce
A: Absolutely. To increase the protein content, simply blend in 2-3 tablespoons of hemp seeds or a 1/4 cup (960 ml) of rinsed cannellini beans. Nutritional yeast is another great option that adds a cheesy, savory flavor along with extra protein.
Q: How do I keep the sauce from turning brown
A: To maintain its vibrant green color, minimize air exposure which causes oxidation. Store the sauce in an airtight container and press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the sauce before sealing the lid. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Penne with Jammy Red Onion Sauce
- Broccoli ‘Meatballs’ with Garlic-Tomato Sauce
- Soba Noodle Stir-Fry with Sweet and Spicy Plum Sauce
A Burst of Freshness: The Easiest Cilantro Lime Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Combine the cilantro, a pinch of salt, the garlic, and the oil in a food processor or high-speed blender. 2. Process the mixture until it's well combined, stopping to scrape down the sides of the container as necessary to ensure everything is incorporated. 3.
- Add the freshly squeezed lime juice and blend for just another second to combine. 4.
- Check the consistency. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little water, one teaspoon at a time, and pulse until you reach your desired texture. 5.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lime juice if needed.
- Serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Don't discard the tender upper stems of the cilantro! They are packed with flavor and blend beautifully into the sauce, adding more depth than just the leaves alone.
