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5 from 1 review

Zesty Low-Carb Cilantro Lime Dressing

Recipe by Kristina Hanson

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.

  • Total Time10 minutes
  • Yield8 servings 1x

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)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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).
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt or sweetener if needed.
  7. 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).

Nutrition Facts (per serving, 8 servings total): Calories: 75 kcal | Total Fat: 7.5 g (Saturated Fat: 1.5 g) | Cholesterol: 2 mg | Sodium: 150 mg | Total Carbs: 1.2 g (Dietary Fiber: 0.1 g, Sugars: 0.8 g, Net Carbs: 1.1 g) | Protein: 1.5 g

These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Condiment / Dressing
  • Cuisine: American / Tex-Mex Inspired

Find it online: https://dailyzests.com/zesty-low-carb-cilantro-lime-dressing/