You know that moment when you're meal prepping on Sunday and realize your salads are going to be the same boring routine all week? I used to dread opening those containers by Wednesday, knowing I'd be forcing myself through another bland lunch. That all changed when I discovered this vibrant cilantro lime yogurt dressing that transforms any ordinary salad into something refreshing and exciting.
What started as a desperate attempt to use up an abundance of fresh cilantro became my secret weapon for meal prep success. This creamy, zesty dressing takes just 5 minutes to blend together, but it's the kind of fresh flavor that makes you actually look forward to eating your vegetables.
The best part? This protein-rich dressing brings bold Mediterranean and Mexican-inspired flavors while keeping things incredibly light and nutritious. Each tablespoon packs 1g of protein and only 9 calories, making it the perfect way to add both flavor and substance to your healthy eating routine.
Simple Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
This cilantro lime yogurt dressing proves that the most delicious things often come from the simplest ingredients. Everything you need is probably already in your kitchen:
- Greek yogurt - the creamy, protein-rich base that makes this dressing satisfying
- Fresh cilantro - brings that bright, herbaceous flavor that makes everything taste fresh
- Garlic - adds depth and aromatic punch
- Jalapeño - provides just the right amount of gentle heat (easily adjustable)
- Fresh lime juice - the zesty brightness that ties everything together
- Salt - enhances all the other flavors
The magic happens when these fresh ingredients come together in your blender. Unlike heavy, oil-based dressings, this cilantro lime yogurt dressing keeps things light while delivering incredible flavor depth.
See recipe card for exact quantities.
Perfect for Salads and Beyond
This versatile dressing is my go-to for making vegetables actually crave-worthy. It's perfect for:
- Mixed green salads with cucumber, tomatoes, and avocado
- Grain bowls with quinoa, brown rice, or farro
- Taco salads for that authentic Mexican restaurant flavor
- Roasted vegetable bowls as a cooling contrast
- Meal prep containers - it stays fresh all week long
For meal prep enthusiasts, this dressing is a game-changer. Make a batch on Sunday, and suddenly every lunch becomes something to anticipate rather than endure. The yogurt base means it's naturally cooling and refreshing – perfect for those hot summer days when you want something light but satisfying.
Your Questions Answered
Store it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The dressing may separate slightly when cold – just give it a quick stir before using.
Absolutely! Remove the seeds from the jalapeño for milder heat, or leave it out completely. You can always start with less and add more to taste.
Try substituting fresh parsley or even fresh mint for a different but equally delicious flavor profile. The base recipe works beautifully with various herbs.
Yes! It's packed with protein from Greek yogurt, contains probiotics for gut health, and is naturally low in calories and fat compared to traditional creamy dressings.
Cilantro Lime Yogurt Dressing
Equipment
- Food processor or blender for blending
- Airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240 g) Greek yogurt - or homemade yogurt
- 1 cup (30 g) fresh cilantro - leaves and tender stems (30g)
- 3 cloves (15 g) garlic - peeled (15g)
- 1 medium (15 g) jalapeño - seeded for mild heat (15g)
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) fresh lime juice - about ½ lime (15g)
- 1 teaspoon (7 g) salt - or to taste (7g)
Instructions
- Add 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1 cup fresh cilantro, 3 cloves garlic, 1 medium jalapeño, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, and 1 teaspoon salt to a blender.
- Blend everything together.
- Transfer the finished cilantro lime yogurt dressing to an airtight container. Use immediately or refrigerate for later use.
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