Cilantro lime crema is a creamy, tangy sauce made with fresh lime juice, cilantro, and sour cream or Mexican crema. It is most commonly used as a taco sauce, but it also works well on grilled chicken, fish, steak, and burrito bowls.
This versatile sauce adds a bright, refreshing contrast to rich or spicy dishes, such as these easy shredded beef tacos, and can be made in just a few minutes. It is especially popular for tacos because it balances bold flavors with a smooth, citrusy finish.
What Is Cilantro Lime Crema Best For?
Cilantro lime crema is best for dishes that need a fresh, creamy contrast to bold or spicy flavors. It works especially well as a finishing sauce, adding brightness and balance to rich or heavily seasoned foods. For a richer, avocado-based variation, try this Avocado Crema.
It pairs particularly well with tacos, grilled meats, burrito bowls, and vegetables. For more ideas, explore our taco recipes collection.
- Tacos
- Grilled meats
- Burrito bowls
- Grilled vegetables
It also pairs especially well with slow-cooked beef like chuck roast, where the creamy texture helps balance the richness of the meat.
Best Tacos for Cilantro Lime Crema
Cilantro lime crema is especially good on tacos that need a fresh, cooling contrast to balance bold seasoning and rich meats.
- Chicken tacos – adds a cool, citrusy balance to seasoned chicken (recipe coming soon)
- Pollo asado tacos – enhances smoky, grilled flavors
- Carne asada tacos – complements rich, grilled beef
- Tacos al carbon – balances charred steak with a creamy finish
- Birria tacos – adds a fresh contrast to rich, slow-cooked beef
- Fish tacos – complements light, flaky textures (recipe coming soon)
Tips for the Best Crema
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor
- Do not over-blend or the sauce can become too thin
- Adjust thickness with water or extra lime juice
- Add jalapeño for a spicy variation
How to Store Cilantro Lime Crema
Store the Mexican crema in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving if separation occurs.
Would you like to save this?
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
Variations
- Classic version: For a simpler option without herbs, try lime crema.
- Spicy version: Add jalapeño or hot sauce
- Garlic-heavy: Add an extra clove of garlic
- Thinner sauce: Add water or milk
- Avocado crema: Blend in avocado for a richer texture
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cilantro lime crema the same as Mexican crema?
No, Mexican crema is a base ingredient, while cilantro lime crema is a flavored sauce made using crema.
Can I make this without cilantro?
Yes, but it will lose its signature flavor. You can substitute parsley if needed.
How do I make it thinner?
Add a small amount of water or lime juice until you reach your desired consistency.
More Sauces to Try
- Chipotle Crema – a smoky, creamy sauce with a hint of heat
- Easy Blender Salsa – a quick, fresh salsa perfect for tacos and chips
- Guacamole in Molcajete – a chunky, traditional avocado dip with bold flavor
Cilantro Lime Crema
Ingredients
- 8 oz Mexican crema or sour cream (*Note 1)
- ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced and zested (*Note 2)
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- ⅛ tsp sea salt (+ more to taste)
Instructions
- Add the sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, garlic and salt to a small bowl and mix until well combined. Taste and adjust the ingredients as needed.