Lime Crema Recipe

Creamy sauces are some of the best things to jazz up your favorite dishes! From Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce to Creamy Chipotle Sauce, a little sauce can take an average meal from good to fantastic. When I made my spicy grilled shrimp the other day, I needed something creamy and bright to pair with it. That's how this lime crema recipe was born!

This Lime Crema has become a household favorite in our family because it's the perfect way to balance out spicy, bold flavors with its creamy, zesty kick. It's an easy-to-make topping that you can use on everything from grilled meats to salads and even rice bowls.

The Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture, while the lime and garlic bring a refreshing zing that pairs so well with smoky grilled meats. It only takes a few minutes to make, but it's best when it sits for a while to let all those flavors come together.

It's also one of those recipes that makes meal prep easier. Just mix it up ahead of time, and you have a tangy sauce ready to go for any meal. My family loves it on everything. 

A Flavor-Packed Creamy Sauce

We can't get enough of this Lime Crema and you won't be able to, either! Here's why we love it:

• 5 Minute Prep: This Lime Crema comes together in less than 5 minutes and uses simple ingredients, making it the perfect last-minute addition to any meal. Just stir everything together, and you're good to go!
• Versatile: Use this creamy condiment on everything, like grilled shrimp, tacos, grilled veggies, or even salads. It's the sauce you didn't know you needed but now can't live without.
• Make-ahead: This recipe needs to be refrigerated for at least 4 hours before serving, so it's great for making ahead of time!
• Healthy: With Greek yogurt and fresh ingredients, this crema is a healthier alternative to store-bought creamy sauces, and it still delivers on flavor.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch and store it in the fridge. This sauce lasts for days, and you'll always have something to jazz up your meals!

Ingredients and Substitutions

Here's everything you need to make Lime Crema from scratch. Don't forget to check the recipe card for exact measurements.

• Plain Greek yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt is the go-to for a rich, smooth texture that balances the tartness of the lime. You can swap it for regular yogurt if you prefer, but the thick, tangy nature of Greek yogurt is what gives this crema its satisfying texture.
• Mayonnaise: If you want to keep it lighter, you can opt for light mayo or Mexican crema for a smoother, slightly milder flavor.
• Lime: Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor! Plus, you need the lime to get the lime zest, which adds even more brightness to the crema.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is always best, finely minced to integrate into the sauce smoothly. If you don't have fresh, a small amount of garlic powder can do the trick in a pinch.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro complements the creaminess and tang, but if you're not a fan, you can swap it for parsley for a milder flavor.
• Mint: Optional, but it gives a cool, refreshing edge to the crema, which pairs wonderfully any spicy dish. If you prefer a more straightforward flavor, you can skip it or use basil instead for a different take.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Crema From Scratch

This Lime Crema recipe comes together in less than 5 minutes! Here's how to make it:

To make this Lime Crema, mix together all the ingredients for the dressing—Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, and a little garlic. Add in the fresh cilantro and mint (if you like a refreshing twist), and give everything a good stir until it's smooth and creamy.

Pro tip: Adjust the thickness of the crema by adding as much or as little lime juice as you like!

Different Ways to Use Lime Crema

This Lime Crema goes with pretty much anything! Here are some of our favorite ways to use this sauce:

• Tacos: Top Shrimp Tacos, Fish Tacos, Steak Tacos, or Carnitas Tacos with a generous dollop of Lime Crema for that perfect creamy, tangy finish. The balance of flavors is a game-changer.
• Bowls: Drizzle this crema over Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls or Vegan Ground Beef Burrito Bowls for an herbal, zesty flair!
• Burritos: Turn basic burritos like Machaca Burritos and Fish Burritos into a zesty infusion of flavor with a drizzle of this lime crema!
• Salads: Use Lime Crema as a salad dressing for fresh greens, cucumbers, and avocado. It adds just the right amount of creaminess without overpowering the crisp veggies.
• Chips: Serve this crema with crispy Baked Tortilla Chips or vegetable chips as a dip. It's the perfect appetizer or snack for parties or casual gatherings.
• Grilled meats: Drizzle over any grilled meats like Grilled Chicken Breast, fish, or even Grilled Sirloin Steak for a vibrant, creamy finish. The lime and cilantro elevate the flavors beautifully.

Storing Lime Crema and Making It Ahead of Time

Here's how to store lime crema and creative ways to use leftovers!

• Storing: Store Lime Crema in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors meld even more after sitting for a few hours, so it's perfect to make ahead.
• Make-Ahead: This crema is meal-prep friendly! You can make it a day or two ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
• Leftovers: Use leftover crema as a topping for Chicken Street Tacos or a Southwest Chicken Rice Bowl!