Description
A vibrant, zesty, and spicy lime cilantro garlic sauce that transforms bland leftovers into restaurant-quality meals in just 5 minutes. This easy emulsion balances heat, acidity, and fresh herbs for a versatile condiment.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 to 2 cups fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems
- 3 to 4 medium limes (juiced, approx. 1/3 cup)
- 3 to 4 cloves fresh garlic, peeled and chopped
- 1 to 2 fresh jalapeño or serrano peppers (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/4 cup neutral oil (avocado or light olive oil)
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave (optional, for sweetness)
Instructions
- Wash and dry the cilantro thoroughly. Juice the limes and peel/chop the garlic.
- In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, chili peppers, and a splash of neutral oil. Pulse until finely minced to create a fragrant base.
- Add the fresh cilantro, remaining oil, lime juice, salt, and honey (if using).
- Blend on high speed for 30-60 seconds until smooth and vibrant green, scraping down sides as needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, lime, or heat as desired. Thin with water or lime juice if too thick.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight glass jar.
Notes
Use fresh lime juice for best flavor; bottled juice lacks brightness. Do not over-blend cilantro to prevent bitterness. Let sauce sit for 10 minutes before serving to mellow raw garlic flavor. Store in glass jars to prevent reaction with plastic. Can be frozen in ice cube trays for later use.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiments
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1/4 cu
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 0.5
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 0.5
Keywords: spicy lime sauce, cilantro garlic sauce, quick sauce, vegan sauce, gluten-free sauce, lime cilantro dressing, 5-minute recipe, healthy condiment