Fish Taco Sauce Recipe
Introduction
This zesty fish taco sauce adds a creamy, flavorful kick to your favorite tacos. Made with fresh lime, smoky spices, and a blend of sour cream and mayo, it’s quick to prepare and elevates any taco night.
Ingredients
- ½ teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon half and half (or light cream)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Zest ½ teaspoon of lime zest and juice 1 tablespoon of lime juice.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the lime zest, lime juice, sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped cilantro, half and half, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth.
- Step 3: Refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 4: Drizzle the sauce over fish tacos or any other tacos just before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Replace half and half with plain yogurt for a tangier, lighter option.
- Chop cilantro finely to evenly distribute its fresh flavor throughout the sauce.
Storage
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving. This sauce is best enjoyed fresh but can be gently reheated to room temperature if preferred.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is recommended for its bright flavor, but if you only have dried, use about one teaspoon and add it while mixing the sauce.
Is this sauce suitable for dairy-free diets?
This recipe contains sour cream, mayonnaise, and half and half, so it is not dairy-free. To make a dairy-free version, substitute with dairy-free mayo, coconut cream, and omit the half and half or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
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Fish Taco Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About ¾ cup sauce, enough for 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A creamy, tangy fish taco sauce bursting with fresh lime, smoky spices, and cilantro, perfect for drizzling over fish tacos or any of your favorite taco fillings. This sauce combines sour cream and mayonnaise with a blend of garlic powder, cumin, and smoked paprika for a flavorful finish.
Ingredients
Fish Taco Sauce Ingredients
- ½ teaspoon lime zest (from 1 lime)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (from 1 lime)
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon half and half (or light cream)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare lime zest and juice: Zest ½ teaspoon of lime zest from the lime, then juice 1 tablespoon of juice from the same lime. Set aside.
- Combine ingredients: In a small bowl, add the lime zest and juice along with sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped fresh cilantro, half and half, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk all the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop fully.
- Serve: Drizzle the chilled sauce generously over fish tacos or any tacos of your choice. Enjoy the fresh, creamy, and flavorful topping.
Notes
- For a thinner sauce, add a little more half and half until desired consistency is reached.
- Adjust the amount of garlic powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to taste for more or less spice.
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Great as a dipping sauce for grilled fish or vegetables as well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: fish taco sauce, creamy taco sauce, lime cilantro sauce, easy taco dressing, no-cook sauce
