Introduction
Elevate your culinary creations with this vibrant and flavorful sauce that combines the creamy richness of mayonnaise and queso fresco with zesty lime and fresh cilantro. Perfect for drizzling over grilled meats and vegetables, or serving as a refreshing dip, this sauce is a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire. With a hint of heat from jalapeño, it balances flavors beautifully, making every dish come alive.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
– Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup
– Queso fresco: 3 ounces
– Jalapeño pepper: 1 (remove ribs and seeds for a milder sauce; serrano pepper can also be used)
– Cilantro: 1 cup
– Garlic: 2 cloves
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt: Pinch, to taste
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Approximately 1 cup of sauce
This sauce is not only simple to prepare but also offers a delightful fusion of flavors that can complement a variety of dishes. Enjoy the fresh, zesty taste and the creamy texture that makes this sauce a must-have in your recipe arsenal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients: olive oil, mayonnaise, queso fresco, jalapeño pepper, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and salt. Make sure to remove the ribs and seeds from the jalapeño pepper if you prefer a milder sauce.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Place the olive oil, mayonnaise, queso fresco, jalapeño pepper, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt into a food processor or blender.
Step 3: Blend the Mixture
Blend the mixture on high speed until it becomes smooth, ensuring that a slight texture remains. This will give your sauce character.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Once blended, taste the sauce to check the flavor. Adjust the salt as needed to enhance the overall taste.
Step 5: Serve the Sauce
Enjoy the sauce by serving it with grilled meats, vegetables, tacos, salads, bowls, or as a dip alongside chips.
Notes
Ingredient Tips
If you prefer a spicier sauce, consider keeping some ribs and seeds in the jalapeño, or substitute with a serrano pepper for additional heat.
Texture Preference
For a creamier sauce, blend longer; for a chunkier texture, blend for a shorter duration.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Serving Suggestions
This sauce pairs well with a variety of dishes, so feel free to experiment with different foods to find your favorite combinations.
Cook techniques
Blending
Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender to achieve a smooth yet slightly textured sauce. Ensure the blender is set to a high speed for even mixing.
Tasting
After blending, taste the sauce and adjust the salt as needed to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Serving
Serve the sauce as a versatile accompaniment for grilled meats, vegetables, tacos, salads, or as a dip for chips.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of queso fresco?
Yes, you can substitute queso fresco with other cheeses such as feta or goat cheese for a different flavor.
How can I adjust the spice level in the sauce?
To make the sauce milder, remove the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño. For more heat, leave them in or consider using a serrano pepper.
What can I use instead of cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or mint can be used as a substitute for a different herbal note.
How long can I store the sauce?
You can store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce, but be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Conclusion
This vibrant sauce blends the creaminess of queso fresco with the zest of lime and the fresh burst of cilantro, creating a delicious companion for a variety of dishes. Its versatility allows it to enhance everything from grilled meats to fresh salads, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Queso Dip
Use this sauce as a base for a spicy queso dip by adding shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and black beans. Serve it warm with tortilla chips.
Cilantro Lime Dressing
Thin the sauce with a bit more lime juice and water to create a cilantro lime dressing for drizzling over grilled chicken or fish.
Taco Toppings
Drizzle this sauce over your favorite tacos for added flavor, perfectly complementing grilled veggies or spicy beef.
Grilled Vegetable Marinade
Marinate vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms in this sauce before grilling to infuse them with flavor.
Salad Enhancer
Combine this sauce with chopped lettuce, avocado, and cherry tomatoes for a fresh salad that packs a punch.
Stuffed Avocados
Use the sauce to fill halved avocados and top with diced tomatoes and onions for a simple, elegant appetizer.
