Lime Yogurt Crema

Fresh, creamy, tangy, and incredibly easy to make. Greek yogurt, fresh lime, and a touch of olive oil come together to create a silky crema that adds brightness and creaminess to taco bowls, roasted vegetables, grilled proteins, and more.

Makes: ~½ cup Prep time: 5 minutes

INGREDIENTS

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or full-fat)

• Juice of ½ lime, about 1 tbsp

• Zest of ½ lime

• 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil

• ⅛ tsp sea salt, or to taste

• 1–2 tsp water, as needed to thin

Optional:

• 1–2 tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro

• ½ small garlic clove, very finely grated

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Add the Greek yogurt, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, and salt to a small bowl.

2. Stir until smooth and creamy.

3. Add water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until you reach your preferred consistency. Keep it thick for dolloping or thin it slightly for drizzling.

4. Stir in cilantro or garlic, if using.

5. Taste and adjust with another squeeze of lime or pinch of salt as needed.

6. For the best flavour, let the crema sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.

APPROXIMATE NUTRITION

Per tablespoon — based on approximately 8 tablespoons

• Calories: ~15–20

• Protein: ~1–2 g

• Carbohydrates: ~1 g

• Fibre: 0 g

• Fat: ~1 g

Nutrition will vary depending on the Greek yogurt used.

HOW TO USE IT

Try a generous spoonful or drizzle over:

• Taco bowls

• Tacos or lettuce wraps

• Grilled chicken or fish

• Roasted sweet potatoes

• Black bean or grain bowls

• Roasted vegetables

• Shaved cabbage or Brussels sprouts

• Veggie-packed wraps

It also makes a delicious dip for crunchy vegetables.

WHY I LOVE THIS

This is such a simple way to add another layer of flavour and goodness to a meal.

Greek yogurt brings protein and calcium, olive oil adds satisfying healthy fats, and fresh lime gives us that bright acidity that makes the rest of the plate come alive.

It's especially good on taco night because it ties everything together, the warm seasoned beef, crunchy vegetables, avocado, beans or sweet potato, and all those colourful toppings.

Sometimes the sauce really does make the bowl.

TIPS & NOTES

• 2% Greek yogurt gives you a creamy consistency while still being light and tangy.

• Full-fat Greek yogurt makes an especially rich crema.

• Don't skip the lime zest, it adds a lot of fresh lime flavour without making the crema too acidic.

• Thin with water gradually. A little goes a long way.

• Make it ahead and refrigerate for 2–3 days in an airtight container.

• Give it a quick stir before serving.

Your partner in health and longevity,

Stacie Mylonas, RHN