Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Flavor – This sauce delivers a perfect balance of heat, tanginess, and creaminess.
- Versatile – Use it as a marinade, dip, or dressing to elevate any dish.
- Quick & Easy – Made in just minutes with a blender or food processor.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cilantro
- Jalapeños or other spicy peppers
- Garlic
- Lime juice
- Mayonnaise
- Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Vinegar
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Prepare the ingredients – Wash and chop the cilantro, deseed the jalapeños (if preferred for less heat), and peel the garlic.
- Blend everything together – In a blender or food processor, combine all the ingredients and blend until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning – Taste and add more salt, lime juice, or spice as needed.
- Serve immediately – Enjoy as a dipping sauce, drizzle over meats, or use as a dressing.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 1 cup
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
- Spicier Version – Add extra jalapeños or swap for serrano or habanero peppers.
- Dairy-Free – Omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
- Creamier – Increase the mayonnaise or add avocado for extra richness.
- Tangier – Use more lime juice or vinegar for a sharper taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing – Not recommended, as the texture may change when thawed.
- Reheating – Best served cold or at room temperature; stir well before use.
FAQs
What can I use Peruvian Green Sauce for?
It’s great as a dip, marinade, salad dressing, or drizzle over meats, tacos, and rice dishes.
Is this sauce really spicy?
It depends on the peppers used. You can control the heat by removing seeds or using milder peppers.
Can I make it without mayonnaise?
Yes! Substitute with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or avocado for a different texture.
Does it taste like guacamole?
Not really. While it shares some ingredients like cilantro and lime, the Parmesan and vinegar give it a distinct tangy flavor.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is recommended for the best flavor and texture. Dried cilantro won’t provide the same freshness.
How long does Peruvian Green Sauce last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for about 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I use a food processor instead of a blender?
Yes! Both a blender and a food processor work well for this recipe.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
You can use nutritional yeast, feta, or another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just store it in the fridge and stir before serving.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
Add more mayonnaise, avocado, or a small amount of Greek yogurt for a thicker consistency.
Conclusion
Peruvian Green Sauce is a flavorful, versatile condiment that can elevate any meal. Whether you use it as a dip, drizzle, or dressing, its vibrant taste and creamy texture make it a must-have in your kitchen. Try it today and discover your new favorite sauce!
Peruvian Green Sauce
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup
- Category: Sauces & Condiments
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Peruvian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Peruvian Green Sauce, or Aji Verde, is a bold, creamy, and spicy condiment perfect for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a dip. This vibrant green sauce is a staple in Peruvian cuisine, made with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, and a touch of mayonnaise for a smooth texture. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a versatile sauce that enhances any dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- 2 jalapeños (seeded for less heat, optional)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients – Wash and chop cilantro, deseed jalapeños (if desired), and peel garlic.
- Blend – In a blender or food processor, combine all ingredients and blend until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning – Taste and add more salt, lime juice, or spice if needed.
- Serve immediately – Use as a dip, drizzle over meats, or as a dressing.
Notes
- Spicier Version – Add extra jalapeños or use serrano/habanero peppers.
- Dairy-Free – Omit Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
- Creamier – Increase mayonnaise or add avocado.
- Tangier – Use more lime juice or vinegar.
