INTRODUCTION
Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing is a bright and tangy sauce that lifts many meals. It mixes reduced fat mayonnaise, non fat plain Greek yogurt, a splash of milk, ranch seasoning, fresh cilantro, garlic powder, and lime juice. This dressing makes salads taste fresh and adds flavor to bowls, wraps, and roasted vegetables. It is a healthy version of classic creamy dressings because it uses Greek yogurt for protein and reduced fat mayo to cut calories. It is also a lighter option that works well for meal prep and for people who want a low calorie, low carb, or gluten free choice.
If you like fresh lime drinks, try them after your meal; a tangy drink like the cool lime refresher copycat pairs well with this dressing on a warm day.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
This dressing is quick to make and tastes like a restaurant version but with less fat and more protein. It is a great for meal prep sauce because it stores well in the fridge and can dress multiple meals through the week. It is a lighter option than full-fat creamy dressings and is good for weight loss when used in proper portions. Using non fat Greek yogurt adds protein, so this makes salads more filling and closer to a high protein meal. The dressing is low calorie, low carb, and naturally gluten free, which makes it a fit for many diets including diabetic-friendly menus when used in moderation.
HOW TO MAKE Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing
This recipe takes minutes to make. The ingredients are simple and easy to find. Use fresh cilantro and fresh lime juice for the best taste. The Greek yogurt gives a creamy texture and adds protein without a lot of extra fat. If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a bit more milk until you reach the texture you want.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight container or jar for storage
- Knife and cutting board for cilantro and lime
Ingredients You’ll Need :
1/4 cup reduced fat mayonnaise, 1/4 cup non fat plain Greek yogurt or sour cream, 1/4 cup almond milk or regular milk, 1 Tbsp buttermilk ranch seasoning mix, 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, Juice of 1/2 lime
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk with a fork until all ingredients are mixed well. Store in refrigerator in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
HOW TO SERVE Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing
Use this dressing on salads, grain bowls, and taco bowls. It pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, roasted vegetables, and fish. For portion control, drizzle 2 tablespoons per serving as a standard portion. Two tablespoons are usually around 60–80 calories depending on your exact ingredients. If you want a lighter option, use 1 tablespoon and add lemon or lime wedges for extra tang without calories. This dressing is also a great dip for raw veggies like carrot sticks, cucumbers, and bell peppers, which adds fiber and makes snacks more filling.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing
Store this dressing in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Shake or stir before each use if separation happens. Do not freeze this dressing if you want the same texture after thawing; freezing can change the texture and cause separation. If you must freeze, keep it in a freezer-safe container and plan to use it in cooked dishes where texture is less important, but fresh refrigerated storage is the best choice.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Serve over a simple green salad with grilled chicken for a balanced, high protein meal.
- Use as a sauce for grain bowls with brown rice, beans, and roasted veggies for fiber and protein.
- Try it as a spread in wraps with turkey or tofu for a lower calorie lunch.
- Pair the dressing with an oven-baked salmon or air fryer chicken for a quick low-carb dinner. A light dessert like a spiced latte works well after; try a cozy treat such as the creamy eggnog latte in cold months or use plain coffee in warmer times.
Include a side of fresh fruit or a small serving of whole grains to keep the meal balanced. Portion control tips: measure dressing with a spoon, and fill half your plate with vegetables, one quarter with lean protein, and one quarter with grains or starchy vegetables.
VARIATIONS
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Healthier version: Use all non fat Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise and keep almond milk instead of regular milk. This lowers saturated fat and calories while keeping protein high. This healthier version is great for those watching calories or looking for a heart healthy swap.
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High-protein or low-carb version: Use full 1/4 cup non fat plain Greek yogurt and skip the mayo entirely for more protein and fewer calories. Serve with grilled chicken or shrimp to create a high protein meal. Use heavy cream or extra Greek yogurt and reduce milk if you want a thicker, lower carb dip.
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Air fryer or oven-baked pairing version: The dressing itself is not cooked in an air fryer, but it shines with air fryer or oven-baked proteins. Try it with air fryer chicken thighs, or oven-baked salmon and roasted cauliflower. For an oven-baked idea, toss vegetables in a bit of oil, roast at 425°F until browned, and finish with a spoonful of the dressing.
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Herb twist: Add extra chopped herbs like parsley or dill for a milder herb flavor and extra green nutrients.
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Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a small spoon of green chili for heat.
FAQs
Q: Is this dressing diabetic-friendly?
A: Yes, the dressing is low in sugar and can be diabetic-friendly when used in measured portions. Use non fat Greek yogurt and almond milk to keep carbs low. Check the ranch seasoning mix for added sugar or salt and choose a no-sugar option if needed.
Q: How long will this dressing last in the fridge?
A: Stored in an airtight container, the dressing will last up to two weeks. Always smell and look for signs of spoilage before use. Stir well before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing?
A: Freezing is not recommended because the texture will change. If you must freeze, expect separation after thawing and plan to use it in cooked dishes where texture matters less.
Q: Is this dressing low calorie?
A: Yes, compared to full-fat creamy dressings, this version is lower calorie because it uses reduced fat mayonnaise and non fat Greek yogurt. Reducing the amount used per serving will also lower the calorie count. It is a lighter option for people who want to cut calories.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free and still keep it high protein?
A: Dairy-free swaps like vegan yogurt and vegan mayo are possible, but they may lower the protein. If you want high protein and dairy-free, consider adding a small amount of silken tofu blended in for protein and smooth texture.
Q: Is this dressing gluten free?
A: Yes, the basic ingredients are naturally gluten free. Check the ranch seasoning label to be sure it is certified gluten free.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing
This dressing is great for meal prep. Make a batch on Sunday and use it all week for salads and bowls. Store in a sealed jar in the fridge and shake before each use. For faster prep, chop cilantro in advance and freeze small portions in ice cube trays with a little water or oil; add frozen herb cubes to the dressing when you make it. If you want a quick high protein breakfast or snack along with your meal prep, pair the dressing-topped bowls with a morning drink such as a protein coffee; a good match is the creamy matcha protein coffee latte as a protein-rich beverage to start the day.
Make small jars (about 1/2 cup each) to control portion use across meals. Label jars with the make date and use the oldest jar first. If you plan to use this dressing as part of a weekly meal plan, keep the dressing in the coldest part of the fridge and avoid leaving it out for long periods during service.
Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing
Ingredients
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl.
- Whisk with a fork until all ingredients are mixed well.
- Store in refrigerator in an airtight container for up to two weeks.