Creamy Lime Chile Dressing
Creamy Lime Chile Dressing Recipe - Authentic Mexican Flavors
Introduction
Creamy Lime Chile Dressing is a zesty and flavorful dressing that adds a burst of tangy heat to any salad or dish. This versatile dressing can also be used as a marinade for grilled meats or vegetables.
History
This recipe is inspired by traditional Mexican flavors, combining the tangy citrus of lime with the spicy kick of serrano pepper and chili powder. The creamy texture comes from reduced-sour cream, adding a rich and indulgent element to the dressing.
Ingredients
- 6 tbsp of reduced-fat sour cream
- 3 tbsp of fresh lime juice (prepared is also acceptable)
- 2 tsp of minced seeded jalapeno or serrano pepper
- 1 tsp of chili powder
- 1 tsp of sugar
- 0.25 tsp of salt
How to prepare
- Whisk all the ingredients in a small bowl.
- For make ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Variations
- Add chopped cilantro for a fresh herbaceous flavor.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for the reduced-sour cream for a lighter dressing.
- Use jalapeno pepper instead of serrano for a milder heat.
References
- ↑ Tip: to juice a lime: a lime at room temperature gives the most juice (1.5-2 tbsp). Before juicing, roll the lime on the counter, pressing down with your hand. If the recipe calls for both zest and juice, grate the zest before squeezing the juice.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to mince the serrano pepper finely to evenly distribute the heat throughout the dressing.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder and sugar to suit your taste preferences.
- For a smoother dressing, blend the ingredients in a food processor or blender.
Serving Suggestions
This dressing pairs well with salads, grilled chicken, fish tacos, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Techniques
Whisking all the ingredients together is the simplest way to prepare this dressing, but blending in a food processor or blender will result in a smoother texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have fresh lime juice, bottled lime juice can be used as a substitute. You can also use red pepper flakes instead of fresh serrano pepper.
Make Ahead Tips
Creamy Lime Chile Dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Drizzle the dressing over a colorful salad or use it as a dipping sauce for grilled meats or vegetables. Garnish with a slice of lime or a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
This dressing pairs well with Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or fajitas. It also complements grilled seafood or roasted vegetables.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before serving, and give it a good stir to recombine the ingredients.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Creamy Lime Chile Dressing contains approximately 60 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Creamy Lime Chile Dressing contains approximately 3 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Creamy Lime Chile Dressing contains approximately 5 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Creamy Lime Chile Dressing contains approximately 1 gram of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
This dressing is a good source of Vitamin C from the lime juice and serrano pepper.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy from the sour cream and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
Summary
Creamy Lime Chile Dressing is a low-carb, moderate-fat dressing that provides a burst of flavor and a dose of Vitamin C.
Summary
Creamy Lime Chile Dressing is a zesty and flavorful dressing that adds a burst of tangy heat to any dish. With a balance of creamy, spicy, and citrusy flavors, this dressing is sure to elevate your meals.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Creamy Lime Chile Dressing. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little kitchen. Maria was known for her delicious Mexican dishes, and she always had a new recipe up her sleeve to share with me.
As I watched Maria gather the ingredients for the dressing, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and admiration for her culinary skills. Her kitchen was filled with the aromas of fresh herbs and spices, and I knew that whatever she was making would be nothing short of amazing.
Maria began by zesting a few limes, the bright green rinds releasing a burst of citrusy fragrance into the air. She then squeezed the juice from the limes, the tangy liquid dripping into a bowl. Next, she added a dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of mayonnaise, and a dash of salt and pepper.
But the real magic happened when Maria reached for the small jar of dried chiles that she had tucked away in her pantry. She explained that the chiles were the secret ingredient in this dressing, adding a smoky and slightly spicy kick that would elevate any salad or dish it was paired with.
As Maria ground the chiles into a fine powder, she told me the story of how she learned to make this dressing from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations of their family. It was a treasured secret that only a select few were privy to, and Maria was honored to share it with me.
I watched intently as Maria mixed all the ingredients together, the creamy white dressing taking on a pale green hue from the lime juice and chiles. She then poured it into a small glass jar and handed it to me with a smile.
"Try it," she said, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
I dipped a spoon into the dressing and took a tentative bite. The flavors exploded on my tongue, the tangy lime, creamy sour cream, and smoky chile blending together in perfect harmony. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew immediately that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen.
Over the years, I have made this Creamy Lime Chile Dressing countless times, each batch reminding me of that sunny day in Maria's kitchen and the joy of discovering a new and delicious recipe. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at its unique and vibrant flavors.
As I sit here now, writing down the recipe for posterity, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary journey that has brought me to this moment. Each recipe I have learned, whether from Maria, my own grandmother, or a chance encounter with a stranger, has enriched my life in ways I never could have imagined.
And so, I pass on this recipe for Creamy Lime Chile Dressing to you, dear reader, in the hopes that it will bring you as much joy and delight as it has brought me. May you savor each bite, knowing that it carries with it the love and memories of those who have shared it before you. Bon appétit!
Categories
| Chili Powder Recipes | Healthy Recipes For Diabetic Friends | Jalapeno Pepper Recipes | Lime Juice Recipes | Mexican Recipes | Salad Dressing Recipes | Serrano Pepper Recipes | Sour Cream Recipes |