Amazing Aji Verde Sauce

This vibrant green sauce originates from the culinary traditions of Peru and has quickly gained popularity worldwide for its unique blend of zesty, herbaceous, and creamy elements. With its delightful balance of flavors, Aji Verde Sauce effortlessly enhances the taste of everything it touches. This sauce knows no bounds. It’s sensational when paired with dishes such as burritos or grilled cheese, succulent meats such as beef or chicken and equally as vibrant when paired with lighter proteins such as fish or delicate sides such as grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes.

The versatility of the Peruvian Aji Verde Sauce lies in its harmonious combination of fresh ingredients. This recipe is crafted with jalapeño, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and a touch of creamy mayo, this sauce packs a punch of flavor with each spoonful. The tangy zest of lime mingles with the herbal notes of cilantro, while the heat of the green chilies adds a delightful and mild kick.

When I am in search of a quick and simple method to transform a weeknight supper from good to amazing, this sauce is my go-to. It is the finishing touch that elevates a dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

*This sauce makes about 40 tablespoons. Recommended serving size is 2 tablespoons.

• Time and Serving Size

  Time:

  Prep: 4 min

  Cook: 5 min

  Servings: 20

• Ingredients

  1 ½ cup mayonnaise

  1 tablespoon water, filtered

  1 ½ teaspoon ground mustard

  0.5 fresh lemon juice

  1 ½ cup cilantro, packed

  1 tablespoon olive oil

  0.5 lime juice

  1 small jalapeño

  1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

  3 cloves garlic

  1 teaspoon garlic salt

• Nutrition

  Nutrition per serving:

  Calories 121.4kcal, 6% DV

  Total Fat 13.52g, 19% DV

  Carbs 0.46g, 0% DV

  Sugars 0.14g, 0% DV

  Protein 0.1g, 0% DV

  Sodium 209.54mg, 10% DV

  Fiber 0.08g, 0% DV

  Percent Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

  Health Score: 3.5/10

  *Health Scores are calculated on a 1-10 scale based on nutrient density and USDA recommendations for a healthy diet. A higher Health Score means healthier food. The value based on impact of more than 28 nutrients.

  Nutrients in this dish with a positive impact:

  Unsaturated Fat 11g, 22% DV

  Potassium 15mg, 0% DV

  Magnesium 1mg, 0% DV

• Flavor Profile

  Tasting Notes:

  Zesty - Aji Verde Sauce delivers a bright and lively zestiness, thanks to the addition of fresh lime juice. The tangy citrus notes add a refreshing and awakening sensation.

  Herbaceous - The prominent flavor of cilantro in the sauce contributes a distinct herbaceous character. Its earthy and slightly citrusy undertones bring a fresh and vibrant element to the overall profile.

  Creamy - Mayonnaise in the sauce lends a creamy component, which helps balance the zesty and herbaceous flavors. This creaminess provides a smooth and velvety texture, enhancing the overall mouthfeel of the sauce.

  Mildly Spicy Heat - The sauce derives its mild to moderate spiciness from the jalapeño. The heat level can vary, but it typically adds a pleasant kick without overpowering the other flavors.

  Freshness - The combination of zesty lime, aromatic cilantro, and spicy chilies creates an overall sense of freshness in the sauce.

Step 1

Rinse herbs and pat dry.

Step 2

Deseed the jalapeño and set it aside.

Step 3

Add all ingredients to a food processor or blender and pulse until smooth.

Step 4

Serve over vegetables, succulent meats, seafood, beans, rice, even grilled cheese!