Description

This vibrant, creamy dressing offers a tangy kick that perfectly complements grilled proteins or crisp greens. By blending Greek yogurt with plenty of healthy fats and fresh aromatics, this wholesome sauce delivers a rich texture and bold flavor profile without the need for added sugars.

Ingredients

Scale

Fresh Produce & Dairy

1 cup fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems, tightly packed (washed and dried) (approx. 25g)
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (whole milk or 2% for best texture) (120g)
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (adjust to taste) (30ml)
1 clove garlic, peeled, germ removed (inner green sprout), and smashed
1/2 fresh jalapeño, seeded and stemmed (optional, for heat)

Pantry & Seasonings

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (60ml)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (3g)
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (1g)
1/8 – 1/4 teaspoon powdered monk fruit or stevia sweetener (to balance acidity)
1-3 teaspoons water (as needed for consistency)

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Instructions

Prepare the Aromatics: If the garlic clove has a green sprout in the center, slice it open and remove it to prevent bitterness in the final sauce.
Combine Ingredients: In a food processor or high-powered blender, combine the cilantro, Greek yogurt, prepared garlic, lime juice, salt, cumin, sweetener, and jalapeño (if using).
Initial Blend: Pulse or blend on high for 30-45 seconds until the cilantro is finely minced and the mixture is largely uniform and green.
Emulsify: Reduce the speed to low. While the motor is running, slowly stream in the extra-virgin olive oil. This slow addition creates a silky, stable emulsion.
Texture Check: Stop and test the consistency. The dressing should coat the back of a spoon and pour easily. If it is too thick (common with Greek yogurt), blend in water 1 teaspoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt or sweetener if needed.
Storage: Transfer immediately to a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate.

Notes

Safety & Storage: This dressing contains fresh garlic and dairy with no preservatives. Keep it strictly refrigerated and consume within 3 to 4 days. Do not leave it sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
Spoilage Check: Discard immediately if you notice significant water separation, gas bubbles/foam, or a sharp, fermented smell.
Texture: The increased olive oil ratio in this version ensures a pourable, salad-ready consistency compared to thicker dip-style versions.
Allergy Alert: Contains Milk (Yogurt). For a dairy-free variation, substitute with unsweetened plain almond or coconut milk yogurt (note: this will alter the nutritional profile).

Nutritional Information

(Estimates per serving based on 8 servings total)

Calories: 75 kcal
Total Fat: 7.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 2mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 1.2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.1g
- Sugars: 0.8g
Net Carbs: 1.1g
Protein: 1.5g

Disclaimer: These are approximate estimates based on standard nutritional data. Values may vary based on brands, exact measurements, and specific ingredients. For precise calculations, use a nutrition tracking app like MyFitnessPal or consult a reliable database.