Cilantro dip is one of my favorite summer appetizer dips. It’s so fresh and versatile, and I end up making it a lot on hot days. You only need a few minutes to throw it together, which is perfect when I don’t feel like spending much time in the kitchen. It works with just about anything. I usually serve it with chips, veggies or grilled meat.
Four reasons to make cilantro dip
- Customizable to one’s liking – You like it thicker? Add more cream cheese. For a stronger flavor, use more cilantro. Or, use fresh jalapeno for a spicy kick.
- Easy to make – It’s ready in under 5 minutes, including preparation.
- Minimal ingredients – You’ll only need seven ingredients, two of which are salt and pepper.
- Multi-use – It works as a dip, sauce or spread.
How to make cilantro dip
The whole process is simple. Prepare the ingredients (full recipe card below), throw them into a food processor and process until smooth-ish.
You want the onion and cilantro to be finely chopped. Once done, you can serve it right away. I recommend chilling it in the fridge, though.
Serving ideas
Cilantro dip goes well with homemade tortilla chips, fresh veggies, chips or crostini.
You can thin it more (or not) and serve it with breaded fish or steak. We enjoy it with grilled chicken as well.
Possible substitutions
- Greek yogurt – Unflavored natural yogurt. Sour cream is also a good alternative.
- Red onion – White, yellow onion or shallots (for milder taste).
- Lemon juice – Lime juice works in a pinch and gives a slightly different citrusy note.
Julia’s tips
- There are literally 6 ingredients in this cilantro dip. For that reason, I do recommend using all of them to achieve the best taste.
- Feel free to tweak the quantities to suit your taste!
- For a spicy option, stir in a little finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
- This dip travels well, making it great for picnics and potlucks as well.
FAQ
Yes! You can make this dip a day in advance. Just keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.
Cilantro dip keeps well for up to 3 days. Some liquid separation may occur, which is completely normal. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
More easy dip recipes you might like to try
- Dill Pickle Dip – A must-try recipe perfect for chips. 5 ingredients and no food processor needed!
- Smoked Salmon Dip – If you want to impress your guests with something new, try this one!
- Yogurt Fruit Dip – This is the perfect summer snack. Think picnics, pool parties or family get-togethers!
Cilantro Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup cream cheese (4 ounces/120 grams)
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (60 grams, see note 1)
- ½ cup fresh cilantro (packed (10 grams), see note 2)
- ½ small onion (see note 3)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh, see note 4)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- black pepper (a generous pinch)
Instructions
- Place all the ingredients into a food processor and process until smooth.
- Serve right away or make ahead and refrigerate before serving.
- Enjoy with chips, veggies or with grilled meats, steak.
Notes
- Unflavored Greek yogurt can be substituted with unflavored natural yogurt.
- More cilantro can be added, if you like.
- You can use red, white or yellow onion (You will need about ¼ to ½ of a small one). For a milder taste, use shallots.
- You will need about half of a small lemon.
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