Chipotle Lime Sauce
This smoky chipotle lime sauce brings bold Mexican-inspired flavor to any dish with its perfect balance of heat and citrus brightness. Chipotle peppers in adobo provide deep smoky flavor, while fresh lime juice and zest add vibrant acidity that cuts through richness. Mayonnaise or sour cream creates the creamy base, and a touch of honey balances the heat beautifully. Use it as a drizzle for tacos and burrito bowls, spread for sandwiches and burgers, or dipping sauce for quesadillas and nachos. The heat level is easily adjusted by using more or fewer chipotle peppers to match your preference. This versatile sauce keeps refrigerated for up to two weeks and actually improves as flavors meld together. The smoky-citrus combination is addictive on everything.
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Ingredients
- •Mayonnaise - 1/2 cup
- •Sour cream - 1/4 cup
- •Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped - 2
- •Adobo sauce (from the can) - 1 tablespoon
- •Lime juice - 2 tablespoons
- •Garlic, minced - 1 clove
- •Ground cumin - 1/4 teaspoon
- •Smoked paprika - 1/4 teaspoon
- •Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
- •Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional) - 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- 1
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream.
- 2
Finely chop chipotle peppers and add to bowl along with 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce.
- 3
Add lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.
- 4
Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.
- 5
Stir in fresh cilantro if using.
- 6
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more chipotle for heat, more lime for tang, or more salt as needed.
- 7
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
- 8
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
Tips & Variations
Pro Tips
- • Taste and adjust seasoning as you go
- • Use room temperature ingredients for best emulsification
- • Let flavors meld by refrigerating 30 minutes before serving
Storage
- • Refrigerator: Up to 1 week in airtight container
- • Freezer: Up to 3 months (thaw overnight)
Variations
Make it spicier with cayenne, tangier with extra lemon, or creamier with more mayo. Customize to your taste!
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