How to Make Cilantro Lime Dressing: A Zingy Twist for Your Dishes

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Cilantro lime dressing – is it a sauce? A dip? A marinade? The answer is a resounding YES to all! This versatile, vibrant dressing, originating from Mexican cuisine, is a staple in my kitchen. With its zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and a hint of garlic, it adds a burst of flavor to almost anything.

Let me share my tried-and-true recipe for this incredibly easy and delicious cilantro lime dressing. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to dressing too!

The Perfect Cilantro Lime Dressing Recipe

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed (about half a bunch)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 1-2 limes)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup water

Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for an earthy flavor)

Tips for Choosing Ingredients:

  • Cilantro: Look for bright green cilantro with perky leaves, avoiding any that are wilted or yellowing.
  • Limes: Freshly squeezed lime juice is key for the best flavor. Roll the limes firmly on the counter before juicing to extract the most juice.
  • Garlic: If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute it with 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder.

Equipment:

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • A blender or food processor
  • A small mixing bowl (optional)
  • An airtight container for storage

Instructions:

  1. Prep Your Ingredients: Wash and dry the cilantro, then remove the leaves from the stems. Juice your limes.
  2. Blend It Up: Combine all the ingredients in your blender or food processor.
  3. Blitz and Adjust: Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed – add more salt, pepper, or lime juice to achieve your desired flavor.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Your cilantro lime dressing is ready! Drizzle it over your favorite salads, use it as a marinade for chicken or fish, or enjoy it as a dip with tortilla chips.

Tips and Tricks:

  • Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thinner dressing, add an extra tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  • Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
  • Storage: Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good shake before using as the ingredients may separate.

Article by Family Cuisine

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