Zesty Cilantro Cream Sauce for Tacos
Elevate your fish tacos with this zesty cilantro cream sauce that’s bursting with flavor. This easy-to-make sauce combines fresh cilantro, creamy textures, and a bright splash of lemon juice, making it the perfect accompaniment for grilled or fried fish. Whether you're hosting a casual taco night or simply want to enhance your weeknight dinners, this versatile dip can be prepared in advance for an even more robust flavor. Indulge in the taste of summer with each delicious bite!
1
Servings
N/A
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh Cilantro
1/2 bunch (stems trimmed, about 1 cup)
Creme Fraiche or Sour Cream
1/2 cup (n/a)
Fresh Lemon Juice
1/4 cup (n/a)
Instructions
1
In a blender, combine the fresh cilantro, creme fraiche (or sour cream), and fresh lemon juice.
2
Blend the mixture on high speed until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
3
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference.
4
Transfer the cilantro cream sauce to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5
For the best taste, consider making the sauce a day ahead and storing it in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Cilantro Cream Sauce?
It is a creamy, flavorful condiment made with fresh cilantro and lemon juice, designed to elevate fish tacos and other Mexican dishes.
What are the main ingredients in this cilantro sauce?
The three main ingredients are fresh cilantro, creme fraiche (or sour cream), and fresh lemon juice.
How do I prepare the cilantro for this recipe?
You should use 1/2 bunch of fresh cilantro (about 1 cup) with the stems trimmed.
Can I use sour cream instead of creme fraiche?
Yes, the recipe allows for either creme fraiche or sour cream depending on your preference or availability.
How is the sauce mixed?
The ingredients should be combined in a blender and processed on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Should I season the sauce?
Yes, after blending, you should taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
How long does the sauce need to chill?
The sauce should be refrigerated for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to properly meld together.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Absolutely. For the best taste, it is recommended to make the sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
What is the best way to serve this sauce?
It is ideally served as a topping for grilled or fried fish tacos, though it also works well as a versatile dip.
Is this sauce spicy?
No, this specific recipe is zesty and bright rather than spicy, focusing on the fresh flavors of cilantro and lemon.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
While the recipe calls for lemon juice, lime juice is a great substitute that complements Mexican cuisine very well.
How many ingredients are required?
The recipe requires 3 primary ingredients: cilantro, a cream base, and lemon juice, plus salt and pepper for seasoning.
What equipment do I need?
You will need a blender to achieve a smooth consistency and a bowl with a lid or plastic wrap for refrigerating.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients listed (cilantro, creme fraiche, and lemon juice), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use a food processor instead of a blender?
Yes, a food processor can be used to blend the ingredients until they are smooth if a blender is not available.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any remaining sauce in an airtight container or a covered bowl in the refrigerator.
How long will the sauce last in the fridge?
When stored properly, the sauce should remain fresh for about 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this cilantro cream sauce?
Freezing is not recommended as the dairy components (creme fraiche or sour cream) may separate and change texture upon thawing.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it is low in carbohydrates and high in fat, making it a suitable choice for a ketogenic diet.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Yes, adding a clove of fresh garlic to the blender would be a delicious variation for this sauce.
What kind of fish goes best with this sauce?
It pairs perfectly with white fish such as cod, tilapia, mahi-mahi, or even grilled shrimp.
How much lemon juice is used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice.
How can I make the sauce thinner?
If the sauce is too thick, you can add a teaspoon of water or additional lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can add a bit more creme fraiche or reduce the amount of lemon juice used.
Can I use dried cilantro?
Fresh cilantro is highly recommended for this recipe to achieve the correct flavor profile and creamy texture.
Can I add heat to this sauce?
Yes, you can blend in a deseeded jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicy kick.
Is this sauce nut-free?
Yes, there are no nuts included in this recipe.
Can I use this as a salad dressing?
Yes, it makes an excellent dressing for taco salads or southwest-style grain bowls.
Should the cilantro stems be removed entirely?
The recipe suggests trimming the stems, but the tender upper stems are fine to include as they contain a lot of flavor.
Is the lemon juice essential?
The lemon juice provides the 'zesty' element and helps balance the richness of the cream base, so it is highly recommended.