Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce) Recipe
If you’re craving a vibrant, zesty sauce that brings a burst of flavor to any dish, you’re going to love this Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce) Recipe. It’s a wonderfully fresh and creamy sauce packed with cilantro, just the right amount of heat from jalapeños, and a tangy brightness from lime juice. This sauce is incredibly versatile and has a magical way of elevating everything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables, or even as a dip. The blend of simple, wholesome ingredients makes it as easy to whip up as it is delightful to enjoy, turning every meal into a celebration of Peruvian flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are refreshingly simple but absolutely essential for capturing the authentic spirit of this sauce. Each component plays a crucial role — from the herbaceous cilantro providing that unmistakable green vibrance to the creamy mayonnaise and sour cream creating a silky texture that perfectly balances the bold, spicy kick.
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed): The heart of the sauce, cilantro offers an aromatic, fresh flavor and vibrant green color.
- 2 jalapeños, stemmed and seeded: Adds just the right amount of heat; leave seeds in if you prefer things spicier.
- 2 garlic cloves: Brings a sharp punch that deepens the sauce’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness to balance the spice and acidity.
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Provides tang and smooth texture; Greek yogurt is a great lighter alternative.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: Lifts the entire sauce with bright, citrusy zestiness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps blend the ingredients smoothly while contributing subtle fruity notes.
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional but traditional): Adds a savory, umami depth that makes the sauce truly special.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances the tang and heat perfectly.
How to Make Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by rinsing the fresh cilantro leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Stem and seed the jalapeños if you want a milder sauce; if you love heat, keep the seeds. Peel the garlic cloves, and make sure to have all your other ingredients measured and ready — this sauce comes together quickly, so preparation makes a big difference.
Step 2: Combine Everything in a Blender
Place the cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese into a blender or food processor. This is where the magic happens: everything starts to meld into a vibrant, creamy masterpiece.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth and Creamy
Pulse and blend the ingredients until you get a smooth and luscious sauce. Don’t be shy about scraping down the sides to ensure everything is fully incorporated — the more uniform, the better the texture and flavor.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Give your sauce a taste and add salt according to your preference. If you want it tangier, add a splash more lime juice; for more heat, toss in an extra jalapeño. This step is where you personalize the sauce to exactly how you love it.
Step 5: Chill and Let the Flavors Meld
For the best flavor, chill your Aji Verde sauce for 15 to 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the ingredients to marry beautifully, creating a richer, more cohesive taste.
How to Serve Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce) Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your garnishes when serving your Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce) Recipe. A sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro or a few thin slices of jalapeño on top adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness. You can also drizzle a little extra olive oil for a glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This sauce is a dream paired with grilled chicken, roasted potatoes, or even crispy fried shrimp. It works as a luscious dip for fresh veggies or a spicy spread on sandwiches and burgers. Because it brings both creaminess and heat, it’s a fantastic complement to almost any savory side dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Put your Aji Verde sauce in a small rustic bowl beside a grilled corn cob sprinkled with cheese, or drizzle it artistically across a salad for a Peruvian twist. You can even use it as a bright, flavorful base for a taco spread or dolloped generously on top of roasted vegetables for extra zing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of this delightful sauce, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy the sauce throughout the week without the need to whip it up every time.
Freezing
While freezing Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce) Recipe isn’t ideal because the texture can change after thawing, you can freeze it in small portions if you want to keep it longer. Use ice cube trays for easy, single-use servings, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag.
Reheating
This sauce is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature to preserve its fresh, vibrant flavors. If necessary, you can gently bring it back to room temperature by letting it sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving, but avoid heating in the microwave, which can alter the taste and texture.
FAQs
What is Aji Verde sauce traditionally served with?
Aji Verde is traditionally served with grilled meats like chicken or beef, but it’s also fantastic as a dipping sauce or dressing for roasted vegetables and sandwiches. Its versatility makes it a beloved accompaniment across many Peruvian dishes.
Can I use another type of chili instead of jalapeños?
Absolutely! While jalapeños provide the perfect mild heat, you can substitute serranos for a spicier sauce, or even milder peppers if you prefer less heat. Just adjust the quantity to your taste.
Is it possible to make this sauce vegan?
Yes! To make a vegan version of this Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce) Recipe, swap out the mayonnaise and sour cream for vegan alternatives such as plant-based mayo and coconut yogurt. The flavor will remain vibrant and delicious.
How long does the Aji Verde sauce last in the refrigerator?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the sauce stays fresh for up to 4 days. After this, the fresh herbs may begin to lose some brightness, so it’s best to enjoy it within that time frame.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! This sauce is excellent to make a few hours in advance. Just chill it in the fridge so the flavors can meld together beautifully, and give it a quick stir before serving.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the brightness and creaminess that the Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce) Recipe brings to the table. Whether you’re drizzling it over a simple grilled chicken or using it as your new favorite dip, it’s a sauce that invites you to savor every bite. I guarantee once you try making it yourself, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, bringing a bit of Peru’s vibrant culinary spirit into your home.
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Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce) Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
Aji Verde is a vibrant and tangy Peruvian green sauce made from fresh cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, mayonnaise, and lime juice. This creamy condiment offers a perfect balance of heat and zest, traditionally enhanced with Parmesan cheese. It is quick to prepare and a delicious accompaniment to grilled meats, potatoes, and sandwiches.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
- 2 jalapeños, stemmed and seeded (or leave seeds for extra heat)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional but traditional)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese in a blender or food processor.
- Blend: Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure even blending.
- Season: Taste the sauce and add salt to your preference. Adjust flavor by adding more lime juice for extra tang or an additional jalapeño if you prefer more heat.
- Chill: Refrigerate the sauce for 15 to 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature for best taste.
Notes
- Leaving the jalapeño seeds in will increase the heat level of the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a traditional nutty flavor.
- This sauce pairs well with grilled meats, roasted potatoes, and sandwiches.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Peruvian
