Cilantro Jalapeno Dip
Bold, bright, and irresistibly creamy, this Cilantro Jalapeño Dip is where freshness meets fire. The vibrant punch of cilantro blends seamlessly with the lively heat of jalapeños, creating a dip that is both refreshing and exhilarating.
Sour cream and mayonnaise smooth out the edges, giving it a velvety body, while the ranch seasoning ties everything together with a tangy, herby finish.
Chilled to perfection, it’s the kind of dip that awakens every bite—equally at home with tortilla chips, fresh vegetables, or even as a zesty spread on burgers and sandwiches.
Why People Will Love Cilantro Jalapeño Dip:
A perfect balance of bold and creamy – the heat of jalapeños meets the cooling richness of sour cream and mayo for a dip that excites but soothes.
Freshness in every bite – cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous lift that makes the dip feel vibrant and alive.
Versatile and crowd-pleasing – delicious with chips, veggies, tacos, or even spread on burgers and sandwiches for an unexpected twist.
Customizable heat – remove seeds for a gentle kick or leave them in for fiery intensity, tailoring the dip to any palate.
Unforgettable flavor profile – ranch seasoning ties everything together, layering tang, herbs, and subtle spices into the creamy base.
Key Ingredients:
Jalapeños – the fiery heart of the dip, bringing a lively kick that can be tailored from mild warmth to bold heat.
Fresh cilantro – a burst of green vitality, adding brightness, earthiness, and a garden-fresh lift to every bite.
Dry ranch seasoning – the secret layer of tangy herbs and spices that ties the creaminess to the freshness in perfect harmony.
Sour cream – cool and velvety, softening the jalapeño’s fire while adding a luscious tang.
Mayonnaise – smooth and rich, binding everything together with a silky, indulgent finish.
Expert Tips:
Control the heat with intention – remove jalapeño seeds and membranes for a gentle warmth, or leave some in for a fiery kick that lingers.
Blend to perfection – puree the cilantro and jalapeños until silky-smooth; this ensures the flavors meld seamlessly into the creamy base.
Chill before serving – resting in the fridge for at least an hour allows the flavors to marry, deepening both the freshness and the spice.
Balance with brightness – if the dip feels too heavy, a squeeze of fresh lime juice can cut through the richness and elevate the flavors.
Think beyond chips – spread it on burgers, sandwiches, or even drizzle it over grilled meats and roasted vegetables for a bold, unexpected twist.
Cilantro Jalapeno Dip
Ingredients:
6 to 8 jalapenos
1 bushel cilantro meaning a huge handful
1 packet of dry Ranch dressing mix
1 cup Sour Cream
1 cup Mayonnaise
Instructions:
Puree the jalapenos and cilantro in a food processor until it looks like a paste
Be sure to scoop out the seeds of the jalapenos if you want a mild dip
Mix together the cilantro and jalapeno puree mixture with 1 cup of mayonnaise and 1 cup of sour cream mix
Chill for about an hour and serve
Enjoy!
Tip: Try it on burgers too! It’s amazing!
Important Notes When Making Cilantro Jalapeño Dip:
Freshness is everything – use vibrant green cilantro and firm jalapeños; tired herbs or peppers will dull the dip’s flavor and color.
Adjust to taste – start with fewer jalapeños and add more as you blend; the intensity of heat varies from pepper to pepper.
Texture matters – puree until smooth for a silky dip, or leave it slightly chunky if you want bursts of cilantro and jalapeño in every bite.
Season with awareness – the ranch packet brings salt, herbs, and spices, so taste before adding extra salt to keep the flavors balanced.
Best when chilled – serving cold not only enhances the creamy texture but also mellows the spice, allowing the flavors to settle in harmony.
Short shelf life – because of the fresh cilantro and creamy base, it’s best enjoyed within 3 days, kept refrigerated in an airtight container.
How To Enjoy Cilantro Jalapeño Dip After Making:
Let it chill and bloom – after blending, allow the dip to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This pause lets the flavors intertwine, the spice mellow, and the creaminess deepen.
Serve with intention – present it in a cool bowl, surrounded by tortilla chips, warm pita wedges, or crisp fresh vegetables for a vibrant contrast of textures.
Pair boldly – don’t limit it to dipping; spread it on burgers, tuck it inside tacos, or drizzle it over grilled meats to add a creamy kick of flavor.
Balance the bite – use it alongside smoky or savory dishes, where the freshness of cilantro and the fire of jalapeño lift the richness of grilled or fried foods.
Refresh leftovers – if stored for a day or two, stir the dip before serving to restore its silky texture and awaken its flavors.
Create moments – enjoy it with friends at a gathering, or keep it as a secret indulgence in your fridge—either way, it turns an ordinary snack into something memorable.
Nutrition Information:
For Cilantro Jalapeño Dip, per 2-tablespoon serving (about 30 g, makes ~20 servings total):
Calories: 95 kcal | Total Fat: 9.5 g | Saturated Fat: 2 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3.5 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.5 g | Cholesterol: 10 mg | Sodium: 180–220 mg (depending on ranch mix) | Total Carbohydrates: 2 g | Dietary Fiber: 0.3 g | Sugars: 0.7 g | Protein: 0.6 g
Frequently Asked Questions:
How spicy is this dip?
The spice level depends on the jalapeños. Removing seeds and membranes makes it mild with just a gentle warmth, while leaving them in creates a bolder, spicier dip.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, in fact it tastes better after chilling for at least an hour. The flavors meld together beautifully as it rests, making it ideal for parties and gatherings.
How long does Cilantro Jalapeño Dip last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will keep for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to restore its smooth texture.
Can I substitute mayonnaise or sour cream?
Absolutely. For a lighter version, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use light sour cream. It keeps the dip creamy while cutting fat and calories.
What can I serve this dip with besides chips?
It’s incredibly versatile—use it as a spread for burgers or sandwiches, drizzle it over tacos, or serve alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables.
Do I need to roast the jalapeños first?
No, this recipe uses raw jalapeños for a bright, fresh heat. However, roasting them before blending can add a smoky depth if you prefer a different flavor profile.
How do I keep the dip from becoming too watery?
Make sure to pat the cilantro dry after washing and avoid over-blending once you add the sour cream and mayonnaise. Excess water from herbs or over-processing can thin the dip.
Can I make the dip without a food processor?
Yes, you can use a high-speed blender. If you don’t have one, finely mince the jalapeños and cilantro by hand, then stir into the creamy base for a more rustic texture.
How do I adjust the consistency of the dip?
If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of milk or lime juice. If it’s too thin, add a little more sour cream or mayonnaise until it reaches the desired creaminess.
How can I avoid overpowering the dip with cilantro?
Start with half the bunch of cilantro, taste, and gradually add more. Cilantro can be bold, and adjusting in stages ensures balance between freshness and creaminess.