Description
Peruvian Green Sauce, also known as Aji Verde, is a vibrant and creamy cilantro-based sauce with a spicy kick from jalapenos and a subtle tang from lime juice. This versatile condiment incorporates fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and a touch of sweetness from honey, blended together with mayonnaise for a rich, smooth texture. Perfect for drizzling over grilled meats, sandwiches, or roasted vegetables, this sauce brings authentic Peruvian flavor to your dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Green Sauce Ingredients
- 3 jalapenos – white ribs and seeds removed (leave in for more heat)
- 1 tablespoon Aji Amarillo paste (optional)
- 1 ¼ cups fresh cilantro, tightly packed; longer stems removed and roughly chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves (tightly packed)
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- ½ cup real mayonnaise (NOT Miracle Whip)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the jalapenos (with ribs and seeds removed unless more heat is preferred), Aji Amarillo paste if using, cilantro, basil leaves, grated Parmesan, ginger paste, honey, minced garlic, lime juice, and canola oil into a blender or food processor.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture on high speed until it becomes a smooth and consistent sauce with no large chunks.
- Add Mayonnaise: Add the mayonnaise to the blended mixture and blend again until the sauce is completely smooth and well incorporated, creating a creamy texture.
- Season to Taste: Taste the sauce and add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed, blending briefly to incorporate the seasoning evenly.
- Store the Sauce: Transfer the finished sauce to a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid to keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate and Preserve: Refrigerate the sauce and use within one week for best flavor and freshness.
Notes
- The removal of jalapeno ribs and seeds controls the heat level; leaving them in makes the sauce spicier.
- Using real mayonnaise instead of Miracle Whip ensures the authentic creaminess and flavor.
- The canola oil adds smoothness but can be substituted with another neutral oil if preferred.
- Aji Amarillo paste is optional but adds authentic Peruvian flavor and a subtle fruity heat.
- Store in the refrigerator, and shake or stir before each use as ingredients may separate over time.
