Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce)

If you love a good sauce that adds a fresh, creamy, and slightly spicy kick to just about everything, you’re going to adore Aji Verde! This Peruvian green sauce is a game-changer it’s rich, tangy, a little bit spicy, and it brings a wonderful pop of color and flavor to whatever you put it on. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, veggies, tacos, or simply dipping crispy potato wedges into it, Aji Verde is pure magic in a bowl. Trust me, you’re going to want to put it on everything.

Why You’ll Love Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce)

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about adding a burst of flavor to all your favorite foods. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner, a weekend barbecue, or a festive get-together, this creamy green sauce fits just about any meal. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: It pairs with grilled meats, veggies, tacos, and even potato wedges.
Budget-Friendly: Few ingredients, maximum flavor perfect for a quick flavor boost on a budget.
Quick and Easy: All you need is a blender and a handful of ingredients.
Customizable: Adjust the chili or herbs to match your preferred spice and flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone love it. It’s rich, creamy, and fresh a universal crowd-pleaser at the table.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of Aji Verde it’s made with just a few simple ingredients, but the result is a creamy, rich, and boldly flavorful sauce. Let’s break it down:

Jalapeños: Provide the medium kick adding a nice, fresh chili flavor.
Cilantro: The base of its vibrant green color and herbal taste.
Garlic: Gives it a nice, rich depth of flavor.
Mayonnaise: Adds a creamy texture perfect for dipping and spreading.
Lime juice: Brightens it up with acidity and a fresh, zesty flavor.
Queso fresco or Parmesan (optional): Adds a nice, salty richness.
Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste and bring all the ingredients together.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below).

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this creamy masterpiece:

Combine Ingredients:

Add jalapeños, cilantro, garlic, mayonnaise, lime juice, and cheese (if using) into a blender or food processor.

Season:

Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Begin blending.

Blend Until Smooth:

Process until all ingredients are smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a small amount of water to reach your preferred consistency.

Taste and Adjust:

Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more chili for a spicier kick or more lime juice for a tangier flavor.

Chill:

For best results, refrigerate the Aji Verde for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve chilled alongside grilled meats, veggies, tacos, or potato wedges or use it as a creamy spread for sandwiches.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 80

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce)

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Drizzle it over grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• Use it as a dipping sauce for potato wedges or crispy veggies.
• Spread it on tacos, burritos, or burgers for a creamy kick.
• Toss it into a potato or grain salad for a fresh twist.
• Pair it with arroz con pollo or a Peruvian-style rice bowl.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• If you want it less spicy, remove the seeds from the jalapeños first.
• Try adding avocado for an even creamier texture.
• Substitute yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option.
• Keep it chilled; it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
• A food processor or blender works well just be sure to blend it thoroughly.

FAQ’s

1 What kind of chili should I use for Aji Verde?
Jalapeños are a popular choice, but you can use serrano or a small amount of a hotter chili if you like it spicy.

2 Is Aji Verde supposed to be creamy or chunky?
It’s typically creamy and smooth, but you can blend it less for a chunkier texture.

3 How long can I keep it in the fridge?
Aji Verde can be kept in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

4 Is Aji Verde very spicy?
It depends on the chili you use and whether you remove the seeds. Jalapeños are medium, while serrano peppers are spicier.

5 Can I freeze Aji Verde?
It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it in small batches for up to 3 months.

6 Is this a traditional Peruvian recipe?
Aji Verde is a popular Peruvian green sauce frequently used in restaurants across Peru.

7 What can I put it on besides tacos and grilled meats?
It’s great on rice, veggies, potato wedges, or even as a salad dressing.

8 Do I need a blender to make it?
A blender or food processor is recommended for a smooth texture.

9 Could I omit the mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute yogurt or avocado for a creamy texture without mayo.

10 What if I want it less tangy or more tangy?
Adjust the amount of lime juice to control its tanginess.

Conclusion

Aji Verde (Peruvian Green Sauce) is a vibrant, creamy, and boldly flavorful addition to nearly any meal. It’s rich, tangy, herbal, and just a little bit spicy a perfect way to bring a taste of Peru to your plate. Whether you’re dipping crispy potato wedges, adding it to grilled meats, or spreading it on tacos, Aji Verde is sure to become your new go-to sauce. So grab your ingredients, blend it up, and let this charming green sauce transform your dishes into something extraordinary!

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