
This flavorful green sauce brings life to everyday dishes with its bright, fresh taste. Made with fragrant cilantro, fresh lime juice, spicy jalapeños and smooth mayonnaise, it creates a versatile sauce that enhances everything it touches. The flavors blend beautifully - fresh herbs lead the way, followed by a gentle kick of pepper, all balanced by rich garlic notes.
This sauce recipe revolutionized weeknight cooking in my kitchen. It's now a regular feature at family dinners, transforming simple dishes into something special.
Essential Ingredients
- Cilantro: Select fresh, vibrant bunches with crisp leaves
- Jalapeños: Choose firm peppers with smooth, shiny skin
- Limes: Look for heavy fruits that yield slightly to pressure
- Garlic: Select firm, fresh bulbs
- Mayonnaise: Use full-fat variety for best results
Preparation Method
- Ingredient Prep:
- Clean cilantro thoroughly and pat dry. Press limes to soften before juicing. Trim jalapeños and split lengthwise.
- Sauce Assembly:
- First blend cilantro and garlic until minced. Add jalapeños and pulse to combine. Mix in lime juice and mayonnaise until smooth. Season to taste.

Serving Suggestions
This sauce elevates grilled fish, roasted vegetables, and sandwiches. It works beautifully as a dipping sauce for fries or fresh vegetables, adding brightness to any dish.
Variations
Try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version. Make it vegan with plant-based mayo, or increase heat with extra jalapeño. Roasted garlic offers a deeper flavor profile.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. The flavors develop further after 24 hours. If sauce thickens, thin with additional lime juice.

This cilantro sauce represents the perfect balance of simple ingredients combined thoughtfully to create an exceptional condiment that enhances any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long will this sauce keep in the fridge?
- If stored in a tightly sealed container, it stays fresh for about a week in the fridge.
- → How can I make this sauce milder?
- Take out the seeds and white parts from the jalapeños before blending to reduce the spice without losing flavor.
- → Can I make a plant-based version?
- Absolutely! Just swap the regular mayo for a vegan-friendly alternative to make it completely dairy-free.
- → What dishes go well with this sauce?
- It’s fantastic on tacos, pizza, eggs, burgers, roasted veggies, grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a dip.
- → Why should I blend cilantro stems too?
- Cilantro stems are loaded with flavor and blend right into the sauce, so there’s no need to waste time separating the leaves.