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Creamy smooth with a fresh punch of lime and a herby burst of cilantro this avocado lime crema instantly turns any taco or roasted veggie from ordinary to craveable. I make a batch every taco night and have found it becomes the most-requested condiment at parties from family to neighbors alike.
I remember first making this for a backyard dinner my family still talks about how it disappeared faster than the main dish and everyone asks for the recipe now
Ingredients
- Ripe avocados: choose ones that give lightly to gentle pressure to ensure maximum creaminess
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: provides a tangy richness buy full fat for bold flavor
- Fresh cilantro: brightens the sauce with citrusy green notes use the freshest leaves no wilted bunches
- Lime juice: cuts through richness with acidity squeeze your own for best taste
- Salt: enhances all the other flavors go for fine sea salt
- Black pepper: adds a touch of warmth freshly ground is ideal
- Garlic: gives depth and a slight sharpness use plump cloves for best impact
Instructions
- Prep the Avocados:
- Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits and skins making sure no brown spots remain which could alter flavor and color
- Measure and Add Ingredients:
- Combine avocado halves sour cream or Greek yogurt fresh cilantro lime juice salt pepper and peeled garlic in your food processor bowl for even blending
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Process everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy scrape down sides as needed for even texture and color
- Taste and Adjust:
- Sample for seasoning add more lime or salt if you want a brighter or sharper flavor mix again to blend
- Serve Fresh:
- Transfer immediately to a bowl for serving or spoon over dishes as desired covering with plastic wrap pressed to the surface if storing
Cilantro is my favorite part of this sauce it always brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen where she let me snip fresh herbs to finish our dishes I love how the lime punch balances that richness too
Storage Tips
Store leftover crema in a jar or container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to reduce browning best used within two days for brightest color and flavor You can add a little extra lime juice before refrigerating to help maintain the green color
Ingredient Substitutions
Replace cilantro with flat leaf parsley for a milder herby kick or swap the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt to get even more protein If avoiding dairy try thick coconut yogurt instead The recipe is flexible for spice too try adding a hint of jalapeño or green onion
Serving Suggestions
This crema is perfect for topping tacos burrito bowls nachos grilled salmon or roasted sweet potatoes I often use it as a dip for crudité or drizzle it over grain bowls for a finishing touch For a party try serving with chips or as a base for shrimp cocktail
Cultural and Seasonal Inspiration
Avocado based sauces are beloved in Mexican cuisine for their cooling creamy element alongside richly spiced foods When the limes are at their juiciest in summer this recipe truly shines Winter versions can use more yogurt or add a touch of hot sauce for warmth
Seasonal Adaptations
Add chopped green onions in spring for an extra layer of sharpness Mix in roasted hatch chilies midsummer for a smoky boost Garnish with pomegranate seeds in winter for color and a sweet tart bite
Success Stories
Friends who dislike plain avocado have been surprised by how much they love this sauce When my nephew asked to bring some home after his soccer game I knew I had a winner This recipe has traveled to picnics family reunions and backyard barbeques
Freezer Meal Conversion
While best fresh you can portion crema flat in a freezer bag Press out excess air and freeze up to one month Thaw in fridge overnight then remix thoroughly before serving The color may dull slightly but flavor stays delicious
This crema will brighten any meal and is sure to win over even avocado skeptics. Enjoy it fresh and experiment all year long!
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make the crema spicier?
Add diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the food processor before blending for extra heat.
- → Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt provides a tangy, creamy texture similar to sour cream and is a suitable alternative.
- → How should I store leftover crema?
Keep the crema in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within 2-3 days for best texture.
- → Is this avocado lime crema suitable for tacos?
This smooth crema adds a bright, creamy finish to tacos, burritos, or grilled vegetables.
- → Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro delivers the best flavor and aroma, but in a pinch, a small amount of dried can be used.