Plain old sour cream can’t compare to this Cilantro Lime Hot Cream recipe. It’s easy to make and adds bold, bright flavor to tacos, burritos and more!
Skip the sour cream: This cilantro-lime cream is the BEST way to add a touch of tangy flavor to Tacos, burritos, Nachos, and more. I love it because it’s more complex than regular sour cream or my favorite alternative, Greek yogurt. Lime juice gives it a zesty burst, cilantro freshens it, and a little onion powder adds addictive savory depth. And the best? To make this cilantro lime cream recipe, you only need 7 simple ingredients and less than 10 minutes. The next time you want to jazz up some Mexican or Tex Mex dishes (or even grilled vegetables !) you can easily make a batch.
What is cream?
Before we dive into the recipe, I want to share some information about Mexican crema in case you’re not familiar with it. Traditional Mexican cream is thick cultured cream, similar to French crème fraîche. It has a rich, sour flavor and a slightly finer texture than sour cream. It adds richness and acidity to Tacos, enchiladasor whatever it is poured on.
Homemade cream is usually made with a combination of heavy cream and buttermilk, but in this zesty version I use Greek yogurt and mayonnaise, which I always keep in my refrigerator. I wouldn’t say it’s authentic, but it makes a tangy, creamy sauce that I love. I think you will enjoy it too!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Cream
This Cilantro Lime Cream recipe is SO easy to make!
Gather the ingredients:
- Plain Greek yogurt – It creates the creamy base. I recommend using full fat yogurt for a richer flavor. Substitute sour cream if you prefer!
- Mayonnaise – It loosens the yogurt and adds richness.
- Fresh lime juice – For a tangy flavor.
- Garlic – This gives the sauce a touch of garlic.
- Onion powder – For a savory and umami flavor.
- Coriander – For a fresh flavor and pretty green spots.
- And sea salt – To bring out all the flavors!
Place the yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, garlic and onion powder in a food processor and process until smooth.
Add the cilantro and blend until the sauce is smooth but green spots are still visible.
That’s it! Season to taste and enjoy.
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
Advice
No food processor? A blender works here too! Just as you would with a food processor, first add all ingredients except the cilantro to the blender. Blend until smooth. Then add the cilantro until you get a creamy sauce with green flecks.
How to Use Coriander Lime Cream
Once you try this Cilantro Lime Cream recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen. The creamy and tangy condiment is delicious on many dishes! Here are some of my favorite ways to use it:
How do you like to use this Zesty Cilantro Lime Crema Sauce? Let me know in the comments!
Storage
Do you have any cream left? You are lucky! It will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You’ll love having it on hand to brighten up whatever you’re cooking!
More Hot Sauces You’ll Love
If you like this cilantro-lime cream, then try one of these hot sauce recipes:

Coriander and Lime Cream
Serves 6
- 1 cup whole milk Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 soup spoons Mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice
- 1 small clove of garlic
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup fresh coriander
Stop your screen from going dark
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In a food processor, combine yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, salt and onion powder. Blend until creamy.
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Add the cilantro and blend until the sauce is smooth but green spots are still visible. Season as desired.