A vibrant and creamy Peruvian cilantro‑jalapeño sauce, brightened with lime and garlic—perfect as a dip, sandwich spread, or drizzle over grilled meats and vegetables.
Author:Beth
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:0 min
Total Time:10 min (plus chilling)
Yield:½ cup (about 8 servings) 1x
Category:Sauce / Condiment
Method:Blended
Cuisine:Peruvian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed, stems removed)
2–3 cloves garlic, peeled
1 jalapeño or serrano, stems removed (seeded for milder heat)
2 Tbsp mayonnaise
2 Tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 Tbsp lime juice (fresh)
2 Tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil)
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste
2–4 Tbsp water (to thin, as needed)
Instructions
Combine cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), lime juice, oil, and cumin in a blender or food processor.
Blend until smooth and bright green.
With blender running, add water one tablespoon at a time until sauce reaches desired consistency.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, blending briefly to incorporate.
Transfer to a jar or bowl, chill at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve cold or at room temperature alongside grilled chicken, tacos, sandwiches, roasted vegetables, or as a dipping sauce.
Notes
For vegan version: use cashew cream or dairy‑free mayo/yogurt.
Adjust heat by adding seeds or choosing mild chile.
Make-ahead: sauce keeps in fridge up to 5 days in airtight container.
Freeze in ice‑cube tray for individual portions—thaw before serving.