Description
This creamy cilantro, jalapeño, and garlic green sauce is a vibrant and flavorful condiment perfect for adding a zesty kick to tacos, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a dipping sauce. Made with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, and a creamy blend of sour cream and mayonnaise, this sauce balances heat and freshness with a smooth texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Green Sauce Ingredients
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro (stems removed, about 1 cup packed)
- 1–2 jalapeños (seeded for less heat)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1–2 tablespoons water (as needed for thinning)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, add the cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. This mixture forms the base of the sauce, combining fresh herbs with creamy and tangy elements.
- Blend the Mixture: Blend the ingredients until mostly smooth while the machine is running. This helps achieve a uniform texture while still retaining some small bits for texture.
- Incorporate Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending. This emulsifies the sauce, adding richness and depth to its consistency and flavor.
- Adjust Consistency with Water: Add water one tablespoon at a time as needed to thin the sauce to your desired consistency. Be cautious to avoid making it too watery, maintaining a creamy texture.
- Taste and Season: Stop blending and taste the sauce. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, lime juice, or jalapeño for heat if desired to balance flavors perfectly.
- Refrigerate to Develop Flavors: Transfer the sauce to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
Notes
- This sauce is perfect for tacos, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a dipping sauce.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute sour cream and mayonnaise with avocado and a splash of plant-based milk.
- Seed jalapeños to reduce heat according to taste preferences.
- Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
