Peruvian Green Sauce (Aji Verde)
This Peruvian Green Sauce (Aji Verde) is a vibrant, spicy, and creamy condiment made with fresh herbs, jalapeño or aji amarillo, and lime. It’s perfect for elevating grilled meats, vegetables, sandwiches, and more with bold Latin flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 1 to 1¼ cups (serves 4–6)
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Peruvian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed)
1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional)
1 jalapeño or 1 tbsp aji amarillo paste (seeded for milder heat)
2 garlic cloves
1/3 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
2 tbsp lime juice
2 tbsp queso fresco or cotija cheese (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Water, as needed to thin
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine cilantro, parsley (if using), jalapeño or aji amarillo, and garlic.
- Add mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, and queso fresco or cotija cheese if using.
- Blend until smooth and vibrant green.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add water 1 tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Transfer sauce to a jar or bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Notes
Swap jalapeño for aji amarillo paste for authentic flavor.
Use vegan mayo or cashew yogurt and skip cheese for a vegan version.
Add avocado for a richer, creamier sauce.
Mix in fresh basil or scallions for extra herbaceousness.
Boost acidity with a splash of white or apple cider vinegar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/peruvian-green-sauce-aji-verde/
