Name: Peruvian Green Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 ½ cups fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 Tbsp red onion, or 2 green onions, finely chopped; 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice , or white vinegar; 3 large cloves garlic, minced; 2 large jalapenos, chopped; ½ tsp sea salt, to taste; ¼ tsp black pepper

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Peruvian Green Sauce, known as Aji Verde, is a vibrant, zesty condiment that adds a delicious pop of flavor to nearly any dish. With its base of fresh cilantro and a kick of jalapeños, this sauce is creamy yet spicy, making it an exciting option for those who crave bold tastes. The beauty of Peruvian Green Sauce lies in its versatility, whether you’re using it as a dip for fresh veggies or drizzling it over grilled chicken or fish. It instantly elevates simple meals into something that feels special, and it’s incredibly easy to whip up at home.

Pin this for later!

I first stumbled upon this tantalizing sauce during a summer barbecue with friends, and it instantly struck a chord with my taste buds. I remember taking that first bite, feeling the heat from the jalapeños, the coolness of the cilantro, and the creaminess from the mayonnaise all dancing harmoniously. Ever since, I’ve made it a staple at my gatherings, and the compliments never cease. If you’re looking to spice up your meals with minimal effort while keeping it budget-friendly, you’ll want to bring this recipe into your kitchen. Let’s dive into making this incredible Peruvian Green Sauce together!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Peruvian Green Sauce
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Peruvian Green Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: The whole process takes just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: A delightful balance of creaminess and spiciness that enhances any dish.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green color makes for a stunning presentation—great for parties!
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a dip, marinade, or dressing; it fits any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adjust for gluten-free or vegan diets with a simple swap.

Ingredients You’ll Need

½ cup mayonnaise: This adds creaminess and acts as a base for the sauce. For a lighter version, substitute with Greek yogurt.
1 ½ cups fresh cilantro, chopped: Fresh cilantro is the star here; it brings bright, herbal flavors that define the sauce. If cilantro isn’t your thing, parsley can be an alternative, though the flavor will change.
2 Tbsp red onion or 2 green onions, finely chopped: This gives a nice crunch and a mild onion taste. Green onions are milder and can be a great substitution if preferred.
2 Tbsp fresh lime juice or white vinegar: Both add tanginess to the sauce. Lime juice offers a fresh, zesty flavor, while vinegar is a good alternative for a sharper taste.
3 large cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds depth and a savory note that complements the greens beautifully.
2 large jalapeños, chopped: The heat level can be adjusted based on how spicy you want your Peruvian Green Sauce; remove the seeds for a milder version.
½ tsp sea salt, to taste: Salt enhances flavors, so adjust as needed.
¼ tsp black pepper: A dash of pepper adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.

How to Make Peruvian Green Sauce

Combine Ingredients: In a food processor or a high-powered blender, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 ½ cups chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tablespoons of finely chopped red onion (or green onions if preferred), 2 tablespoons of either fresh lime juice or white vinegar, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 2 chopped jalapeños.
Blend Until Smooth: Blend all the ingredients until smooth. The longer you blend, the smoother the sauce will become, but if you enjoy a chunkier texture, feel free to stop blending earlier.
Taste and Adjust: After blending, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with sea salt and black pepper as needed. Give it a quick blend to incorporate any adjustments.
Store: Transfer your Peruvian Green Sauce into a sealed container and refrigerate. The sauce will thicken as it sits, making it easier to drizzle over food later.
Serve and Enjoy: Use your green sauce over grilled chicken, fish, pork, or roasted vegetables for a flavor explosion!

Storing & Reheating

Store your Peruvian Green Sauce in an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a lid. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about one week. If you want to store it longer, it freezes beautifully for up to three months; just transfer it to a freezer-friendly container or bag. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir. Keep in mind that the texture might change slightly, but a quick blitz in the blender can restore that creamy consistency!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Fresh vs. Dried Ingredients: Always use fresh cilantro and lime juice for the best flavor; dried ingredients won’t have the same impact.
Controlling Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, consider removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños, or use fewer peppers for a milder sauce.
Timing Flavors: The sauce’s flavor improves as it sits, so making it a few hours or even a day ahead can enhance its taste.
Serving Suggestions: Drizzle the sauce over tacos, nachos, or even as a spread for sandwiches to amp up your meals.
Adaptable Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to play around! Add things like avocado for creaminess or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Perfecting this Peruvian Green Sauce can be a delightful journey, and I encourage everyone to play with the ingredients according to your tastes. Whether it becomes a regular companion to your grilled meats or your go-to sauce for parties, this versatile condiment is sure to shine in your kitchen. Enjoy the refreshing, spicy kick it brings to your meals!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make Peruvian Green Sauce vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or even use avocado for a creamy base. It will still taste delicious while being plant-based.

How spicy is this sauce?

The heat level can vary depending on your jalapeños. If you prefer a milder sauce, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping. For more spice, you can add additional jalapeños or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.

How long does this sauce keep once made?

Peruvian Green Sauce will last up to one week in the refrigerator. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

What can I serve with Peruvian Green Sauce?

This versatile sauce pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, tacos, fish, and vegetables. It can also be enjoyed as a dipping sauce for appetizers or drizzled over salads—just about anything you can think of!

⭐ If you make my Peruvian Green Sauce recipe, Awesome! I would love to hear from you. Please give it a star rating and review below! 👇