Name: Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 1 large bunch fresh cilantro; ½ cup plain whole milk yogurt (or sour cream); 1 garlic clove; Juice of 2 limes; 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil; ½ jalapeno, seeds and stem removed (optional)

Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing

Liven up your salads, tacos, or veggie platters with a burst of flavor using this simple and versatile creamy cilantro lime dressing. Made with fresh ingredients in just minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues.

Cilantro, the key ingredient, boasts more than just a vibrant taste. It’s a good source of Vitamin K, essential for bone health, and also contains Vitamin A, which contributes to healthy vision [source: National Institutes of Health].

This recipe uses yogurt for a creamy texture and a touch of tang. You can substitute sour cream for a richer flavor, or swap in Greek yogurt for a thicker consistency. Honey or maple syrup adds a hint of sweetness to balance the zesty lime juice.

For a kick of heat, include a jalapeno pepper, but be sure to remove the seeds and membrane for milder spice.

This flavorful dressing keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week, so whip up a batch and enjoy it throughout the week on all your favorite dishes!

Questions I often get asked about this recipe:

Can I use a different type of yogurt?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt will make the dressing thicker, while sour cream will make it richer. You can also use non-dairy yogurt alternatives like cashew cream or coconut yogurt.

What if I don’t like cilantro?
Fresh parsley or mint can be used as a substitute, although they will have a slightly different flavor profile.

I don’t have fresh limes, can I use bottled juice?
Yes, in a pinch, you can use 1 tablespoon of bottled lime juice, but fresh limes will give the dressing a brighter flavor.

How spicy is the dressing with the jalapeno?
It depends on your spice tolerance. Removing the seeds and membrane significantly reduces the heat. You can start with half a jalapeno and adjust to taste.

Can I add other ingredients to the dressing?
Sure! Chopped avocado adds a creamy richness, while a sprinkle of cumin or chili powder adds a touch of southwestern flair.

What you need to make Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing:

1 large bunch fresh cilantro

½ cup plain whole milk yogurt (or sour cream)

1 garlic clove

Juice of 2 limes

1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)

½ teaspoon kosher salt

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

½ jalapeno, seeds and stem removed (optional)

How to make it:

Add all ingredients except the olive oil to a food processor or blender.

Pulse to combine until the cilantro is finely chopped.

With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt, honey, or lime juice as desired.

Tips:

For a richer flavor, you can use avocado instead of yogurt. Add half an avocado to the blender along with the other ingredients.

If you don’t have fresh limes, you can use 1 tablespoon of bottled lime juice, but fresh is always best.

Make sure to remove the seeds and membrane from the jalapeno before adding it to the dressing, unless you prefer a spicier flavor.

This dressing will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container.

Latest Reviews:

Simple and delicious! This dressing is so easy to throw together and adds a ton of flavor to my salads. I love the creamy texture from the yogurt and the fresh taste of the cilantro and lime. Definitely a keeper! Moira S.

Perfect for meal prep! I make a big batch of this dressing on Sundays and use it on salads all week long. It’s so versatile and keeps well in the fridge. I love that it’s healthy too, with all the fresh ingredients. Stacey D.

Taco night just got tastier! This creamy cilantro lime dressing is the bomb on tacos! It’s so much better than the store-bought stuff and takes minutes to make. Thanks for the recipe! Rosemary T.

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