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Copycat Taco Bell Lime Sauce

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  • #1361

This copycat Taco Bell lime sauce blends lime juice and fresh cilantro with a creamy base, perfect for enhancing various dishes quickly.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  under 30 minutes
Rating: 3/5

4 reviews

ingredients

5 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 clove garlic, coarsely chopped

directions

Combine the lime juice and cilantro in a food processor or blender. Process until the cilantro is very finely chopped.

Add the sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, vinegar, and garlic. Process until smooth.

Use immediately or store in a covered container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.

recipe tips


Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.

Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more or less milk to taste.

Let the sauce sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to deepen the flavors.

If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more milk gradually until the desired consistency is reached.

Try adding ingredients like cumin or smoked paprika for added flavor.

Garnish with extra chopped cilantro or a lime wedge when serving.

Experiment with adding different herbs like dill or basil for a unique twist.

Blend the sauce longer if you prefer an ultra-smooth texture without any bits of herb or garlic remaining.

common recipe questions


What is Taco Bell Lime Sauce?

Taco Bell Lime Sauce is a tangy, creamy sauce typically used as a condiment for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican-inspired dishes.

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?

You can use bottled lime juice, but fresh lime juice will provide a better flavor. If using bottled juice, be sure to choose a high-quality product without added sugars or preservatives.

What can I substitute for cilantro if I don't like it?

If you don't like cilantro, you can use parsley for a similar texture without the strong flavor. Alternatively, you could use green onions or chives for a different taste.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream. It will add a slight tanginess and a thicker texture.

Is it necessary to add white wine vinegar?

White wine vinegar contributes to the tanginess of the sauce, but if you don't have it, you can use another type of vinegar such as apple cider vinegar or even additional lime juice.

Can I omit the garlic?

You can omit the garlic if you prefer, but it adds flavor. You could also use garlic powder if you want a subtler garlic taste.

How do I store the sauce?

Store the lime sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The flavors tend to meld and improve after sitting for a few hours.

Can I freeze Taco Bell Lime Sauce?

Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy texture may separate once thawed. It's best used fresh or refrigerated for a short time.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

You can add some finely chopped jalapenos, a dash of hot sauce, or cayenne pepper to increase the heat level in the sauce.

What can I serve sauce with?

This sauce pairs well with tacos, burritos, quesadillas, grilled meats, vegetables, and as a dip for chips or fresh veggies.

Can I use this sauce as a salad dressing?

Yes, the sauce can also be used as a creamy dressing for salads, particularly those with a southwestern theme.

tools needed


Food Processor or Blender: For finely chopping the cilantro and blending all ingredients until smooth.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring the lime juice, cilantro, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, and white wine vinegar.

Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For preparing the cilantro and garlic.

Spatula: For scraping down the sides of the food processor or blender to make sure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Storage Container: Needed if the sauce is not used immediately, to keep the leftover lime sauce fresh in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.


nutrition data

36 calories, 4 grams fat, 1 grams carbohydrates, 0 grams protein per tablespoon. This recipe is low in sodium. This recipe is low in carbs.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


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reviews & comments

  1. Guest REVIEW:

    I used half a clove of garlic with no vinegar, and it turned out great. The milk seems unnecesary, and made the sauce too thin. I will be trying variations of this, adding jalapenos or habaneros.

  2. Random Commenter REVIEW:

    Pretty good! I'd suggest adding a chopped jalapeno or serrano chile, but watch out as they are hot. It did turn out a little runny, so I'd also suggest holding off on the milk, and adding just a little bit as needed when you blend it.

  3. the3dguy REVIEW:

    I also thought this recipe tasted nothing like the taco bell recipe for lime sauce, which me and my dad both love. To me it tastes like there is way too much cilantro. Next time I make it I will only add 1/2 as much at most. All in all though its not a bad sauce, its just not the same taste as the lime sauce and not as good either. If someone else tries it with less cilantro and its good, let me know.

  4. Guest Foodie REVIEW:

    I love taco bell's lime sauce and when I tried this recipe, I was truly disappointed. It tasted nothing like it.

Please note:
This is a copy cat recipe submitted to CDKitchen by a third-party. This recipe is not an original recipe unless specifically stated and is considered only to be an acceptable "clone" to the original for the home cook to attempt to duplicate. Please also note that many nationwide restaurant chains vary their menus and ingredients by region so the version provided may not be similar to what you may have tried before. All trademarks referenced are property of their respective owners.

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