If you like tacos, this cilantro lime crema sauce will soon become your favourite taco sauce. It takes five minutes to make, using simple ingredients, and it genuinely makes everything taste better.
I have been making this homemade taco sauce for a while now. It started because I had leftover chicken to use and wanted to throw together a quick taco situation, and realized I had nothing exciting to put on top. So I grabbed what I had, blended it together, and lime crema appeared. It has been a staple ever since. Tacos are one of my favorite ways to use up protein leftovers, and this cilantro lime taco sauce is the thing that ties it all together.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Taco Sauce Recipe
This is a no-fuss, 5-minute taco sauce recipe that works on pretty much everything. Here is why it earns a permanent spot in my fridge:
- It is fresh, creamy, and bright all at once
- You can make it ahead and use it all week
- The ingredients are simple and easy to find
- It is flexible enough to adjust to your taste
- It works on tacos, salads, grilled meat, fish, and so much more
What Is Cilantro Lime Crema
It is a fresh, creamy sauce made with sour cream, fresh cilantro, lime, garlic, and a little mayo. It has a smooth, creamy texture with a bright, fresh flavor that cuts right through rich taco fillings.
It is also incredibly easy to adapt. If you want it spicier, just add one jalapeño. If you want it more citrusy, add extra lime juice. It works your way.
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What You’ll Need For This Taco Sauce Recipe
Sour cream – It’s the creamy base that gives this sauce a smooth, creamy texture.
Mayo – Just a bit rounds out the creaminess and adds richness.
Fresh cilantro – It adds freshness and makes the sauce feel light and vibrant.
Lime – You need both the zest and the juice. The zest adds a punch of citrusy aroma, and the juice brings brightness.
Garlic – Just one small grated clove for enhancing the flavour.
Salt and black pepper – To season to taste at the end.
Blender – Will help to get the perfectly smooth, silky texture. You can use a fork and whisk in a pinch, but a blender makes it extra creamy.
Cilantro Lime Crema (Easy Homemade Taco Sauce)
Course: CondimentsCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy8
servings5
minutes50
kcal5
minutesThis easy cilantro lime crema is the homemade taco sauce you'll want on everything. Ready in 5 minutes with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
¾ cup sour cream
1 teaspoon mayonnaise
1 small bunch of fresh cilantro
Zest from 1 small lime
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
1 garlic clove, grated
Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Cilantro Lime Crema
- Add the sour cream and mayo to a blender.
- Add the lime zest and freshly squizeed lime juice.
- Grate in the garlic clove and add it to the blender.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Add the fresh cilantro, washed and dried.
- Blend on pulse until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed.
- Transfer in a smalls serving bowl.
- Sprinkle some freshly grated lime zest or fresh cilantro and ready to serve.
Notes
- If you want it spicy, just add one small jalapeño or red chilli to the blender and you have a cilantro lime taco sauce with a little heat.
How to Store the Lime Crema
Transfer the crema in a small jar or airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Give it a little stir before using.
How to Use the Taco Sauce
The obvious answer is on tacos, but there are so many options out there. Here are some ideas:
With grilled chicken, pulled pork, fish, beef. It works on all of it. How about in a cutlet sandwich? Just a drizzle, works so well.
As a salad dressing – You can drizzle it over a green salad with some sliced grilled chicken and parmesan. That is a full meal right there.
As a dip – Serve it alongside veggies or tortilla chips.
If you want it spicy, just add one small jalapeño or red chilli to the blender and you have a cilantro lime taco sauce with a little heat.
NO IDEA WHAT TO COOK?
Cilantro Lime Crema FAQ
Can I make this without a blender?
Yes. Finely chop the cilantro, grate the garlic, and whisk everything together. The texture will be slightly less smooth, but it will still taste great.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
You can. It will be a little tangier and lighter. Works well if that is what you have.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 5 days in a sealed container.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Try a plant-based sour cream and mayo. The flavor will be slightly different but still good.
If you make this cilantro lime crema, let me know in the comments what you put it on. I would love to hear how you used it.
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Hi, I’m Biba, the creator of Chick in Apron! As a busy mom and food blogger, I am passionate about making cooking fun and stress-free. I share simple, delicious recipes that are quick and easy to prepare, along with helpful kitchen hacks to save you time.
So, let’s turn cooking into something you enjoy with tasty meals and handy tips to make kitchen tasks a breeze! ✨
