Are you ready to elevate your culinary creations with a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds? Introducing the Creamy Smoky Spicy Cilantro Dressing—a zesty blend that combines the freshness of cilantro with the richness of Greek yogurt and a kick of spice! Perfect for drizzling over salads, dipping veggies, or enhancing grilled meats, this dressing is not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant dressing that will have your guests begging for the recipe. Dive into this article and discover how to create this deliciously creamy dressing that will transform your meals!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash the fresh cilantro leaves under cold running water, gently patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Remove any tough stems from the cilantro leaves, keeping only the tender leaves and soft stems.
- Add the fresh cilantro leaves to a food processor or high-powered blender.
- Measure and add Greek yogurt to the blender, ensuring it is smooth and creamy.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice directly into the blender, being careful to strain out any seeds.
- Pour olive oil into the mixture, which will help emulsify the dressing and add richness.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika and cayenne pepper into the blender for smoky and spicy notes.
- Add salt to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting according to preference.
- Blend all ingredients on high speed for 30-45 seconds until the mixture is smooth and fully integrated.
- Stop the blender and scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Blend again for an additional 15-20 seconds to achieve a creamy, uniform consistency.
- Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, lime juice, or spices to balance the flavor.
- Transfer the dressing to an airtight container or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and develop.
- Serve chilled as a dressing for salads, as a dip for vegetables, or as a sauce for grilled meats.
Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh cilantro for the best flavor. Avoid wilted or yellowing leaves, as they can affect the taste of your dressing.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you're sensitive to heat, start with a smaller amount of cayenne pepper and gradually increase it to your liking. You can always add more, but you can't take it out!
- Blend Thoroughly: Make sure to blend the dressing until it's completely smooth. This ensures a creamy texture that clings beautifully to salads and veggies.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the dressing to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld together, making each bite more delicious.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or stir before using, as it may separate slightly over time.
- Versatile Uses: Don’t limit this dressing to salads! Try it as a dip for fresh vegetables, a sauce for grilled chicken or fish, or even drizzled over tacos for an added zing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
