Creamy cilantro dressing El Pollo Loco is a delicious and versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. It's a creamy blend of fresh cilantro, sour cream, mayonnaise, and various seasonings, creating a unique and irresistible taste for salads, sandwiches, and even dip. The dressing is known for its bright green color and ability to complement various dishes.
Take Aways
- Use fresh ingredients: This will ensure that the dressing has the best possible taste and texture, and that it's safe to eat.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: This will allow you to achieve the perfect balance of flavors for you.
- Use a food processor or blender: Pulse, don't puree for a better texture of the dressing.
Creamy cilantro dressing: an Overview
The origins of this dressing can be traced back to the popular Mexican restaurant chain El Pollo Loco, where it was first served as a topping for their famous chicken. The dressing quickly became a fan favorite and is now a staple in many households. The dressing's popularity has also led to many variations and adaptations of the recipe, each with its twist on the original.
The dressing is effortless to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it an excellent option for those who are short on time but still want to add a touch of flavor to their meals. The dressing is also a great option for health-conscious people, as it can be made with low-fat or fat-free sour cream and mayonnaise. Furthermore, it is a great way to incorporate fresh herbs into your diet.
Ingredients you'll need
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup chopped white onion
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons water (if needed)
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
Step-by-step instructions
Here are the step-by-step instructions for making Creamy cilantro dressing El Pollo Loco:
Step 1
Combine the fresh cilantro leaves, chopped white onion, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, sugar, ground cumin, garlic powder, and white vinegar in a food processor or blender. Pulse until the ingredients are well combined, and the cilantro is finely chopped.
Step 2
Add the sour cream and mayonnaise to the food processor or blender. Pulse until the ingredients are well combined, and the dressing is smooth.
Step 3
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, sugar, or lime juice to taste.
Step 4
If the dressing is too thick, add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 5
Transfer the dressing to a container with a tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6
Before serving, stir the dressing well and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the dressing as a dip, a topping for salads or sandwiches, or a marinade for meats. The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Note:
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add water if the dressing is too thick. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, stir the dressing well and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Why these ingredients:
1 Fresh cilantro leaves:
Cilantro is known for its distinct, bright, and slightly citrusy flavor that adds freshness to the dressing. It is an herb widely used in Mexican and Latin American cuisine. Cilantro leaves are the key ingredient in this recipe, providing a unique and refreshing flavor essential to the dressing. Make sure to use fresh cilantro leaves, as dried cilantro will give a different taste.
2 Sour cream:
Sour cream is a staple ingredient in many dressings and dips, and it is known for its tangy, creamy, and slightly sour taste. Sour cream is necessary for this recipe because it provides a tangy flavor that balances the other ingredients. It also helps to create a creamy and thick consistency in the dressing.
3 Mayonnaise:
Mayonnaise is a popular ingredient in dressings and dips, known for its creamy and rich taste. Mayonnaise is used in this recipe to provide a rich and creamy flavor, and it also helps to create a thick consistency in the dressing. The fat content in mayonnaise also helps balance the flavors and make the dressing more creamy.
4 White onion:
White onion is added to give the dressing a bit of a bite. The white onion provides a subtle sweetness, adding a layer of complexity to the flavor profile. Onions are known for sweetness and subtle spiciness to dishes, so they're a great addition to this recipe.
5 Minced garlic:
Garlic is known for its strong and pungent flavor, which can add depth and complexity to the dressing. It is a staple ingredient in many sauces and marinades and is known for its ability to provide subtle spiciness and depth to dishes.
6 Lime juice:
Lime juice is used to add a touch of acidity to the dressing; it also helps balance out the flavors. Lime juice is known for its ability to provide a refreshing and bright taste, which makes it a perfect addition to this recipe.
7 Salt and sugar:
Salt and sugar are used to add a touch of sweetness and saltiness to the dressing. Salt is used to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients, while sugar is used to balance out the flavors. Adjust the amount of salt and sugar to your preference.
8 Ground cumin:
Ground cumin is a spice commonly used in Mexican and Latin American cuisine. It is known for its warm, nutty, and slightly smoky flavor. Cumin can add depth and complexity to the dressing and enhance the other flavors in the recipe.
9 Garlic powder:
Garlic powder is a dry powder made from dehydrated garlic. It is used to add a touch of garlic flavor to the dressing. Garlic powder can provide a milder and sweeter flavor than fresh garlic. It can also help to balance out the flavors of the dressing and add depth to the flavor profile.
10 White vinegar:
White vinegar is used to add a touch of acidity to the dressing. It also helps to balance out the flavors of the dressing and cut through the creaminess of the sour cream and mayonnaise. White vinegar is known for its sharp, acidic, and tangy flavor.
11 Water:
Water is added if the dressing is too thick. Water helps to thin out the dressing and make it more pourable. Add water in small amounts until the desired consistency is reached.
Read:
Substitutions and variations
Here are some suggestions for substitutions or variations that you can make to the "Creamy cilantro dressing" recipe:
1 Substituting sour cream:
You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt if you don't have sour cream. Greek yogurt has a tangy flavor and creamy texture as sour cream, and it is a healthier option because it has a less fat content.
2 Substituting mayonnaise:
If you want to make a lighter version of the dressing, you can substitute the mayonnaise with sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can also use vegan mayonnaise if you want a vegan version of the recipe.
3 Substituting fresh cilantro:
If you don't have fresh cilantro, you can substitute it with dried cilantro. However, remember that the flavor will be less intense and less fresh. If using dried cilantro, use half the amount of fresh cilantro.
4 Spicy variation:
If you want to add a bit of heat to the dressing, add some chopped jalapeño pepper or red pepper flakes.
5 Vegan variations:
To make a vegan version of the recipe, you can substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives and use a vegan sweetener instead of sugar.
6 Lemon variation:
You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice with a more citrusy flavor. This will give the dressing a more lemony flavor.
7 Add herbs:
You can add other herbs to the dressing to give it a different twist, such as parsley, basil, or mint.
Read:
Tips and tricks for best results when making this recipe
Here are some tips and tricks for achieving the best results when making "Creamy cilantro dressing":
1 Use fresh ingredients:
When ingredients are fresh, they have a higher level of natural flavors and aromas that can be lost over time to provide a more intense and delicious taste. For example, fresh cilantro leaves give a unique and refreshing flavor essential to the dressing; it has a distinct, bright, and slightly citrusy flavor that adds freshness to the dressing. You won't get the same flavor from dried cilantro.
2 Adjust the seasoning to your taste:
The recommended amounts of salt, sugar and lime juice are a starting point, but the final seasoning should be based on personal preference. Some people prefer a sweeter dressing, while others prefer a tangier or saltier one. Adjusting the seasoning to your taste ensures the dressing is enjoyable and satisfying.
3 Use a food processor or blender:
A food processor or blender can quickly chop and blend the ingredients, vital for creating a smooth and creamy dressing. It also lets you pulse the ingredients, keeping some texture and making it more visually appealing. It also helps you achieve the desired consistency and evenly distribute all the ingredients for a well-balanced and harmonious flavor.
4 Pulse, don't puree:
Pulsing, instead of pureeing, the ingredients in the "Creamy cilantro dressing" recipe are essential because they keep some texture in the dressing, enhancing its visual appeal. It also provides a more even distribution of the cilantro flavor and some chunks of cilantro and onion, giving the dressing a more rustic look and adding to the overall eating experience. Pulsing the ingredients in the food processor or blender will ensure the cilantro is finely chopped, making the final product more visually appealing.
5 Refrigerate before serving:
Refrigerating the "Creamy cilantro dressing" before serving is essential because it allows the flavors to meld together, which results in a better-tasting final product. It allows you to recheck the seasoning and make any necessary adjustments for a perfect balance of flavors. The cold temperature will also help to thicken the dressing and give it a creamier texture.
This step will ensure that the dressing is at its best when served and that the flavors are more pronounced and cohesive for a better overall taste experience.
6 Keep it in the refrigerator:
Keep the dressing in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
For several reasons, keeping the "Creamy cilantro dressing" in the refrigerator is essential.
- Firstly, it helps to maintain the freshness and quality of the ingredients. When the dressing is stored in the refrigerator, it slows down the growth of bacteria, which can cause spoilage and food poisoning. This will ensure that the dressing stays safe and the flavors remain intact.
- Secondly, refrigeration also helps to keep the dressing thick and creamy; it thickens the dressing and makes it creamier. If left at room temperature, the dressing can become runny and lose its texture, affecting its overall taste and appearance.
- Thirdly, refrigeration also helps to preserve the flavors of the dressing, the flavors will be more pronounced, and the dressing will have a more complex and well-rounded taste. When the dressing is chilled, the flavors blend and become more cohesive, improving the overall taste.
7 Use as a marinade:
The cilantro in the dressing provides a unique and refreshing flavor essential to the dressing; it has a distinct, bright, and slightly citrusy flavor that adds a burst of freshness to the meat, making it more flavorful and juicy. The mayonnaise and sour cream provide a creamy texture, which can help to keep the meat moist and tender.
Furthermore, using this recipe as a marinade allows you to infuse the meat with the flavors of the dressing, and it also helps tenderize the meat, making it more juicy and flavorful when cooked. Marinating the meat for at least 30 minutes can make a big difference in the final taste of the meat.
8 Experiment with different herbs:
Herbs have a variety of unique and complex flavors that can be used to enhance the taste of the dressing and create new flavor profiles. For example, adding parsley, basil, or mint can add a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dressing. Basil can add a sweet and slightly peppery flavor, parsley can add a bright and grassy flavor, and mint can add a cool and refreshing flavor. These herbs can complement the cilantro and give the dressing a new twist.
Additionally, experimenting with different herbs can help balance the flavors; for example, if you want to add a bit of heat to the dressing, you can add some chopped jalapeño pepper or red pepper flakes, which can give the dressing a new twist.
9 Add some heat:
Adding some heat to the "Creamy cilantro dressing" recipe is a great way to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Heat can be added as hot peppers such as jalapeño, chili flakes, or cayenne pepper, and it can provide a nice balance of flavors and a subtle kick of heat to the dressing.
10 Be creative:
Cooking is an art, and being creative with the recipe lets you put your spin on it and make it your own. For example, you can experiment with different types of vinegar, like balsamic or apple cider vinegar, or add different kinds of nuts or seeds, like toasted pumpkin seeds or roasted almonds, giving the dressing a new twist. You can add fresh or dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to add a sweet-tangy note.
Creativity also means being bold, changing the recipe, and adjusting the ingredients to your taste. For example, you can adjust the amounts of salt, sugar, and lime juice to your preference. You can also play with different herbs, spices, and other ingredients to create new flavor combinations. This will allow you to achieve the perfect balance of flavors for you.
What goes well with creamy cilantro dressing El Pollo Loco
The "Creamy cilantro dressing" pairs well with various dishes, and it can be used as a marinade, a salad dressing, or as a dip for vegetables and chips. Here are a few suggestions for dishes to pair with the dressing:
- Grilled chicken or fish: The dressing can be used as a marinade for chicken or fish, infusing the meat with the flavors of the dressing and making it more flavorful and juicy.
- Mexican-style salads: The dressing can be used for salads, such as a fiesta salad, with lettuce, black beans, corn, avocado, and tomatoes.
- Tacos: The dressing can be drizzled over tacos filled with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables for added flavor.
- Roasted vegetables: The dressing can be used as a dip for roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus, providing a creamy and flavorful complement.
- Nachos: The dressing can also be used as a dip for nachos, providing a creamy and flavorful complement.
- Grilled meats: The dressing can also be used as a marinade for grilled meats, such as steak or pork chops.
Bottom line:
The "Creamy cilantro dressing" pairs well with various dishes, and it can be used as a marinade, a salad dressing, or as a dip for vegetables and chips. It goes well with grilled chicken or fish, Mexican-style salads, Tacos, Roasted vegetables, Nachos, and Grilled meats. The dressing can infuse the meat with the flavors and provide a creamy and flavorful complement to the dishes.
Ideas for using the dressing in different ways
Here are a few ideas for using the "Creamy cilantro dressing" in different ways:
- As a marinade: Marinate chicken or fish with the dressing for added flavor before grilling or baking.
- As a dip: Serve the dressing for vegetables, chips, or crackers.
- As a sandwich spread: Use it for sandwiches, wraps, or burgers for added flavor.
- As a topping: Drizzle the dressing over tacos, burritos, or enchiladas.
- As a salad dressing: Mix it with greens, beans, corn, and avocado for a delicious Mexican-style salad.
- As a topping for baked potatoes: Top your baked potatoes with the dressing, cheese, and green onions for a delicious and creamy side dish.
- As a sauce for pasta: Mix the dressing with cooked pasta and sautéed vegetables for a delicious and creamy pasta dish.
- As a topping for pizza: Use it for pizza with some cheese, vegetables, or meat for added flavor.
This dressing can be used in various ways, such as a marinade, a dip, a sandwich spread, a topping, a salad dressing, a topping for baked potatoes, a sauce for pasta, and a topping for pizza. These ideas can enhance the dishes' flavors and add a unique and refreshing taste.
Full Recipe
Creamy Cilantro Dressing El Pollo Loco
Pin RecipeIngredients:
- 1 cup cilantro leaves
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup white onion (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoon water (if needed)
Instructions:
Prep the dressing:
- Combine the fresh cilantro leaves, chopped white onion, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, sugar, ground cumin, garlic powder, and white vinegar in a food processor or blender. Pulse until the ingredients are well combined, and the cilantro is finely chopped.
- Add the sour cream and mayonnaise to the food processor or blender. Pulse until the ingredients are well combined, and the dressing is smooth.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, sugar, or lime juice to taste.
- If the dressing is too thick, add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the desired consistency is reached.
- Transfer the dressing to a container with a tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, stir the dressing well and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the dressing as a dip, a topping for salads or sandwiches, or a marinade for meats. The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Notes:
Substitutions and variations
Here are some suggestions for substitutions or variations that you can make to the “Creamy cilantro dressing” recipe:1 Substituting sour cream:
You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt if you don’t have sour cream. Greek yogurt has a tangy flavor and creamy texture as sour cream, and it is a healthier option because it has a less fat content.2 Substituting mayonnaise:
If you want to make a lighter version of the dressing, you can substitute the mayonnaise with sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can also use vegan mayonnaise if you want a vegan version of the recipe.3 Substituting fresh cilantro:
If you don’t have fresh cilantro, you can substitute it with dried cilantro. However, remember that the flavor will be less intense and less fresh. If using dried cilantro, use half the amount of fresh cilantro.4 Spicy variations:
If you want to add a bit of heat to the dressing, add some chopped jalapeño pepper or red pepper flakes.5 Vegan variations:
To make a vegan version of the recipe, you can substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives and use a vegan sweetener instead of sugar.6 Lemon variation:
You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice with a more citrusy flavor. This will give the dressing a more lemony flavor.7 Add herbs:
You can add other herbs to the dressing to give it a different twist, such as parsley, basil, or mint.Tips and tricks for best results when making this recipe
Here are some tips and tricks for achieving the best results when making “Creamy cilantro dressing”:1 Use fresh ingredients:
When ingredients are fresh, they have a higher level of natural flavors and aromas that can be lost over time to provide a more intense and delicious taste. For example, fresh cilantro leaves give a unique and refreshing flavor essential to the dressing; it has a distinct, bright, and slightly citrusy flavor that adds freshness to the dressing. You won’t get the same flavor from dried cilantro.2 Adjust the seasoning to your taste:
The recommended amounts of salt, sugar and lime juice are a starting point, but the final seasoning should be based on personal preference. Some people prefer a sweeter dressing, while others prefer a tangier or saltier one. Adjusting the seasoning to your taste ensures the dressing is enjoyable and satisfying.3 Use a food processor or blender:
A food processor or blender can quickly chop and blend the ingredients, vital for creating a smooth and creamy dressing. It also lets you pulse the ingredients, keeping some texture and making it more visually appealing. It also helps you achieve the desired consistency and evenly distribute all the ingredients for a well-balanced and harmonious flavor.4 Pulse, don’t puree:
Pulsing, instead of pureeing, the ingredients in the “Creamy cilantro dressing” recipe are essential because they keep some texture in the dressing, enhancing its visual appeal. It also provides a more even distribution of the cilantro flavor and some chunks of cilantro and onion, giving the dressing a more rustic look and adding to the overall eating experience. Pulsing the ingredients in the food processor or blender will ensure the cilantro is finely chopped, making the final product more visually appealing.5 Refrigerate before serving:
Refrigerating the “Creamy cilantro dressing” before serving is essential because it allows the flavors to meld together, which results in a better-tasting final product. It allows you to recheck the seasoning and make any necessary adjustments for a perfect balance of flavors. The cold temperature will also help to thicken the dressing and give it a creamier texture. This step will ensure that the dressing is at its best when served and that the flavors are more pronounced and cohesive for a better overall taste experience.6 Keep it in the refrigerator:
Keep the dressing in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Keeping the “Creamy cilantro dressing” in the refrigerator is essential for several reasons.- Firstly, it helps to maintain the freshness and quality of the ingredients. When the dressing is stored in the refrigerator, it slows down the growth of bacteria, which can cause spoilage and food poisoning. This will ensure that the dressing stays safe and the flavors remain intact.
- Secondly, refrigeration also helps to keep the dressing thick and creamy; it thickens the dressing and makes it creamier. If left at room temperature, the dressing can become runny and lose its texture, affecting its overall taste and appearance.
- Thirdly, refrigeration also helps to preserve the flavors of the dressing, the flavors will be more pronounced, and the dressing will have a more complex and well-rounded taste. When the dressing is chilled, the flavors blend and become more cohesive, improving the overall taste.
-
7 Use as a marinade:
The cilantro in the dressing provides a unique and refreshing flavor essential to the dressing; it has a distinct, bright, and slightly citrusy flavor that adds a burst of freshness to the meat, making it more flavorful and juicy. The mayonnaise and sour cream provide a creamy texture, which can help to keep the meat moist and tender. Furthermore, using this recipe as a marinade allows you to infuse the meat with the flavors of the dressing, and it also helps tenderize the meat, making it more juicy and flavorful when cooked. Marinating the meat for at least 30 minutes can make a big difference in the final taste of the meat.8 Experiment with different herbs:
Herbs have a variety of unique and complex flavors that can be used to enhance the taste of the dressing and create new flavor profiles. For example, adding parsley, basil, or mint can add a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dressing. Basil can add a sweet and slightly peppery flavor, parsley can add a bright and grassy flavor, and mint can add a cool and refreshing flavor. These herbs can complement the cilantro and give the dressing a new twist.
Nutrition Information:
Please note that all nutrition information are just estimates. Values will vary among brands, so we encourage you to calculate these on your own for most accurate results.