Bright, tangy, and loaded with bold flavor, this cilantro lime dressing is the ultimate way to bring a fresh twist to your meals. It’s creamy, zesty, and perfectly balanced with a hint of garlic and a kick of optional jalapeño. This dressing doesn’t just complement a dish—it transforms it.

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Ingredient Breakdown

Cilantro takes center stage here, offering a fragrant, grassy punch that defines the dressing’s character. Be sure to use the tender stems along with the leaves—they’re full of flavor and blend beautifully.

Yogurt forms the base, creating a silky consistency and adding a touch of tang. Whole milk yogurt gives the dressing body without making it overly heavy, making each spoonful creamy and refreshing.

Lime juice and garlic work in harmony to brighten the dressing. The citrus sharpens the flavor profile, while the raw garlic infuses just enough bite to wake up your palate.

A touch of honey rounds things out with a subtle sweetness, perfectly balancing the acidity and heat. And for those who like it spicy, jalapeño adds depth and warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.

Olive oil is drizzled in slowly to emulsify the mixture, bringing everything together with a smooth, velvety finish that clings effortlessly to greens, grains, or proteins.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

To begin, add cilantro, yogurt, lime juice, garlic, honey, salt, and jalapeño (if using) into a high-powered blender or food processor. Pulse until the mixture begins to break down into a thick, herbaceous base.

With the machine running, slowly pour in the olive oil. This step is key—it helps emulsify the dressing, transforming the mixture from thick and chunky to silky and cohesive. Once fully blended, the dressing should be bright green, creamy, and pourable.

Taste the dressing and adjust as needed. More salt enhances the savoriness, while an extra drizzle of honey can mellow out strong acidity. If it’s thicker than desired, a small splash of water can help loosen the texture.

Transfer the finished dressing into a glass jar with a tight lid and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to a week and is just as delicious on day five as it is fresh from the blender.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Use only the tender cilantro leaves and soft stems for better blending:
Tough stems can leave stringy bits, so trim the lower woody ends.

Start with half the jalapeño if sensitive to spice:
It’s easier to add more heat than to tone it down.

Chill the dressing for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor:
The flavors meld and deepen as it rests.

Use a high-speed blender for an ultra-smooth finish:
A smoother dressing coats ingredients more evenly.

Add a splash of water if the dressing is too thick:
Especially helpful when using Greek yogurt as a base.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of regular?
Yes, but you may need to thin the dressing slightly with water or extra lime juice.

How long does this dressing last in the fridge?
Stored in a sealed jar, it lasts for up to 7 days.

What’s a good substitute if I don’t have jalapeño?
Try a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a slice of serrano pepper.

Can I freeze this dressing for later use?
It’s not recommended—dairy-based dressings tend to separate and lose their creamy texture after freezing.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This dressing is a natural fit for taco salads, grilled chicken bowls, and roasted vegetable platters. Its tangy brightness complements smoky, spiced proteins and balances rich grains like quinoa and rice.

Use it as a creamy dip for quesadillas, tortilla chips, or a platter of crunchy raw vegetables. It’s also a delicious addition to burrito bowls or spread over grilled corn for a flavorful upgrade.

Pair it with citrus-marinated shrimp or pan-seared fish for a coastal twist that brings out the best in fresh seafood.

Creative Variations

For a richer version, swap the yogurt with sour cream or mayonnaise. It adds a velvety texture and deeper flavor, perfect for heartier dishes.

Add a ripe avocado for a luscious, ultra-creamy twist that doubles as a dip. Or blend in green onions, parsley, or basil for extra herbaceous layers.

Zest one of the limes before juicing to intensify the citrus notes and add a fragrant burst that lingers on the palate.

This cilantro lime dressing is more than just a topping—it’s a bright, bold flavor booster that enhances everything it touches. With its smooth texture and vibrant taste, it brings new life to salads, proteins, and snacks alike. Keep a jar in your fridge and you’ll always be one spoonful away from something delicious.

Ingredients

1 large bunch fresh cilantro
½ cup Stonyfield Plain Whole Milk Yogurt
Juice of 2 limes
1 garlic clove
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
½ jalapeño, seeds and stem removed (optional)

Instructions

In a food processor or blender, combine the cilantro, yogurt, garlic, freshly squeezed lime juice, honey, salt, and jalapeño if using. Secure the lid tightly and blend until the mixture begins to break down.

While the machine is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to emulsify the dressing, blending until the texture is creamy and smooth. Pause to taste and adjust the seasoning—add a pinch more salt for balance or a touch more honey for sweetness, if needed.

Transfer the finished dressing to a glass jar with a secure lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week, giving it a quick shake or stir before each use.