Peruvian Aji Verde is a creamy, spicy green sauce made with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, lime juice, and a tangy blend of sour cream and yogurt, blended to a smooth, vibrant finish. This zesty sauce is perfect for drizzling over grilled meats and roasted vegetables or as a bold dipping sauce for fries and empanadas.
Course Condiment, sauces
Cuisine Peruvian
Keyword Peruvian Aji Verde Sauce Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutesminutes
Servings 2cups
Calories 223kcal
Author Bon Appeteach
Ingredients
2cupsFresh Cilantro
3Jalapenosseeds removed
4Garlic Cloves
1/2cupSour Cream
1/2 cupGreek Yogurt
1 Limezested and juiced
1/4cupCotija Cheese crumbled
1/2tspSalt
Instructions
Rinse the fresh cilantro thoroughly and roughly chop it. Remove the stems if desired. Slice the jalapeños lengthwise and remove the seeds for a milder heat (leave some seeds for extra spice, if preferred). Peel the garlic cloves.
In a blender or food processor, combine the 2 cups fresh cilantro, 3 jalapeños, 4 garlic cloves, ½ cup sour cream, ½ cup Greek yogurt, ¼ cup cotija cheese, and the juice of 1 lime.
Add a generous pinch ofsalt to taste. Blend on high until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure an even blend.
If the sauce is too thick, add a small splash of water or more lime juice to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lime juice if needed.
Transfer the Aji Verde to a jar or airtight container. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to meld over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
Notes
Tip: This sauce pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted veggies, and fries, or as a zesty spread for sandwiches and wraps!