A creamy, tangy, and herbaceous sauce, this Cilantro Lime Crema is my go-to for adding a burst of flavor to tacos, grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even just as a dipping sauce. With a smooth texture and a vibrant taste from fresh cilantro and lime, it brings a refreshing touch to any dish. It’s quick to prepare and easily adaptable based on taste preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon lime zest
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
I start by combining the sour cream and mayonnaise in a mixing bowl.
Then, I add the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest, mixing until well combined.
Next, I stir in the garlic powder, followed by salt and pepper to taste.
Once it’s all mixed, I refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can come together.
I serve it chilled—drizzled over tacos, spread onto grilled meats, or as a dip for chips and veggies.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 100 kcal per serving
Variations
There are plenty of ways I like to switch up this Cilantro Lime Crema:
I sometimes add a jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped) for a spicy kick.
For a dairy-free version, I substitute the sour cream and mayo with plant-based alternatives.
When I want it thinner, I stir in a tablespoon or two of water or lime juice until it reaches the desired consistency.
For extra zest, I double the lime juice and zest.
I occasionally swap garlic powder with a small clove of freshly minced garlic for a bolder garlic flavor.
Storage/Reheating
I store this crema in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It thickens slightly as it sits, but I just give it a good stir before using again. I don’t recommend freezing it, as the texture can change once thawed. There’s no reheating needed—it’s best served cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
How long does cilantro lime crema last in the fridge?
I find it stays fresh for about 4 to 5 days when stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
Can I make this crema without mayo?
Yes, I sometimes replace mayo with more sour cream or Greek yogurt if I want a lighter or tangier version.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro gives the best flavor, but in a pinch, I’ve used 1 tablespoon of dried cilantro—it works, though the taste isn’t as vibrant.
What dishes go well with cilantro lime crema?
I love it on tacos, burrito bowls, grilled shrimp, roasted veggies, or even as a dip for tortilla chips and sweet potato fries.
Can I blend the ingredients instead of mixing by hand?
Absolutely. When I want a super smooth texture, I blend everything in a food processor or blender for a few seconds.
Conclusion
This Cilantro Lime Crema is one of those simple recipes that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. I always keep it on hand when I’m making tacos or anything off the grill—it’s just that good. With a short ingredient list and flexible options, it’s easy to adjust to whatever I’m cooking. Once I tried it, it became a must-have in my condiment lineup.
Recipe:
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Cilantro Lime Crema
This Cilantro Lime Crema is a creamy, zesty sauce packed with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and garlic—perfect for tacos, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a dipping sauce. Ready in minutes and full of flavor, it’s a must-have for your next Mexican-inspired meal or BBQ spread. This tangy crema sauce is versatile, easy to make, and stores beautifully in the fridge.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon lime zest
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and mayonnaise.
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Stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest until well blended.
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Add garlic powder, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Mix thoroughly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve chilled—perfect for drizzling on tacos, spreading on grilled meats, or using as a dip.
Notes
Spicy variation: Add 1 finely chopped jalapeño for heat.
Dairy-free option: Use plant-based sour cream and mayo alternatives.
Thinner consistency: Stir in 1–2 tablespoons of water or lime juice.
Bold garlic flavor: Replace garlic powder with 1 minced garlic clove.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir before each use. Best served cold.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sauce, Condiment
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 100 kcal per serving
