Step into your kitchen and transform everyday ingredients into this creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing. Perfect for those trying out homemade dressings for the first time, this recipe is a delightful fusion of fresh ingredients and tangy flavors. Whether you’re tossing it with a taco salad or adding it to your favorite burrito bowls, this dressing is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Green Salad’s Best Friend: The bright green, fresh flavors of this dressing make it a perfect pair for a simple green salad.
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and a food processor, you can whip up this dressing in no time – ideal for anyone trying homemade salad dressings for the first time.
- Versatile Flavor: Whether it’s enhancing the taste of a black bean soup, a southwest quinoa salad, or a grain bowl, this dressing brings a burst of freshness to any dish.
- Nutrition Packed: Every ingredient, from the ripe avocados to the fresh garlic, adds not just flavor but also nutritional benefits, making this a great addition to a mindful, healthy diet.
Cilantro Nutrition Info
Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) contains vitamins A, C, and K. As well as trace amounts of many more vitamins and minerals. In an animal study, a minimum dose of 100 mg/kg of hydroalcoholic extract from cilantro was found to have anti-anxiety effects.
Ingredients
Incorporate this easy cilantro lime dressing into your meal rotation and experience the joy of fresh, homemade flavors. Whether you’re picking up your ingredients at the grocery store or using what you have at home, this dressing is sure to add a bright, tangy touch to your favorite salads and dishes.
- Avocado: This creamy fruit is a versatile base, rich in healthy fats and perfect for achieving a creamy dressing texture.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves and even cilantro stems add a distinctive herby flavor, synonymous with many favorite salads and dishes like cilantro lime rice.
- Garlic: A dash of fresh garlic elevates the dressing, adding depth and health benefits.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is essential for that tangy cilantro lime dressing everyone loves. It’s also great for adding a splash of vitamin C.
- Jalapeño: For a little kick, jalapeño peppers bring a hint of heat. You can adjust the seeds for your preferred spice level.
- Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: These oils give a smooth finish and are a healthier choice for creating a creamy cilantro lime salad dressing.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, they heighten the rest of the ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add avocado into a small blender, followed by all remaining ingredients.
- Blend on high for 30-45 seconds (until well combined).
Pro tip: if the dressing looks a bit thick, add up to 1/4 cup of water. - Serve on your favorite tacos, nachos, or salad.
Recipe Variations
- Garlic: Adjust the amount for a stronger or milder flavor.
- Lime Juice: More can be added for extra tanginess.
- Sour Cream (Vegan): For a creamier version, mix in a cup of vegan sour cream.
- Maple Syrup: A dash can add a subtle sweetness, balancing the tanginess.
Servings Ideas
- Try it as a dressing for a Southwest Quinoa Salad with Sautéed Sweet Potatoes, Sautéed Kale and Potatoes, Easy Black Beans Soup, or drizzle it over a simple green salad for a quick, healthy meal.
- It’s a great way to add a new twist to traditional dishes like grain bowls or cilantro lime rice.
- For those who love a bit of adventure, add a dash of hot sauce for an extra zing.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container, preferably a glass mason jar with a tight-fitting lid. This not only keeps the dressing fresh but also aligns with sustainable living practices. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week.
FAQ
It’s a blend of fresh cilantro, lime juice, avocado, garlic, jalapeño, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Similar to the cilantro lime dressing, but often includes ingredients like sour cream or yogurt for creaminess.
Commercial dressings like Brianna’s may have similar ingredients but can include additional preservatives and flavorings.
Recipe
Cilantro Lime Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 avocado, medium ripe
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, about 1/2 of a bunch (with stems)
- 1 clove garlic , minced
- 1/4 cup lime juice, freshly squeezed (about 2 medium limes)
- 1/2 jalapeño pepper, leave seeds for a spicier flavor seeded
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Add avocado into a small blender followed by all remaining ingredients.
- Blend on high for 30-45 seconds (until well combined). Pro tip: if the dressing looks a bit thick, add up to 1/4 cup of water.
- Serve on your favorite tacos, nachos, or salad.
This was so good on my nachos last night!
Awesome!