
If summer had a flavor, this would be it. Bright, creamy, and wildly addictive, cilantro lime avocado salsa is a celebration of everything we love about sunny days, backyard fiestas, and the bold, vibrant taste of Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re serving it as a dip with crunchy tortilla chips, drizzling it over tacos, or spooning it onto grilled chicken or fish, this salsa is guaranteed to impress.
This recipe is a treasured gem in my kitchen—passed down through my friend’s abuela, who always had a batch ready for unexpected guests. It’s the kind of salsa that gets people talking (and double dipping). Made with ripe avocados, fresh cilantro, tomatillos, and a splash of lime, it strikes the perfect balance between creamy and tangy with a subtle, spicy kick.
Why You’ll Love This Cilantro Lime Avocado Salsa
- 🥑 Ultra Creamy Texture thanks to ripe avocados and Mexican crema
- 🌿 Fresh & Bright Flavor from cilantro, lime, and tomatillos
- 🔥 Customizable Heat—add jalapeño if you like it spicy
- 🌽 Versatile Use: Dip, drizzle, or dollop—it enhances everything!
- ☀️ Perfect for Summer: Cool, refreshing, and packed with zing
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this luscious salsa (makes 2–3 cups):
- 6 tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 1 jalapeño (optional, for spice)
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 large handful of fresh cilantro
- ½ cup crema Mexicana (or sour cream)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon
- 1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 2 limes
- ¼ of a white onion
- 1 cup reserved tomatillo boiling water (approx.)
How to Make Cilantro Lime Avocado Salsa
Step 1: Boil the Tomatillos (and Jalapeño)
- In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil.
- Add the tomatillos (and jalapeño if using).
- Boil for about 10 minutes, until the tomatillos turn a dull green and soften.
- Reserve about 1 cup of the boiling water before draining.
Step 2: Blend It All Together
- In a high-speed blender, combine:
- 2 avocados
- Cilantro
- Crema Mexicana
- Garlic
- Chicken bouillon
- Salt
- Lime juice
- Onion
- Boiled tomatillos and jalapeño
- About ¾ cup of reserved boiling water
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 3: Taste & Adjust
- Taste the salsa and adjust the salt or lime juice if needed. For more spice, blend in another jalapeño or a pinch of crushed red pepper.

How to Serve This Salsa
This cilantro lime avocado salsa is incredibly versatile. Try it:
- 🌮 As a topping for tacos (especially carnitas or grilled shrimp)
- 🥗 Drizzled over salads or grain bowls
- 🐟 As a sauce for grilled fish or chicken
- 🥑 As a creamy dip for tortilla chips or fresh veggies
- 🧆 Over enchiladas or burritos for a creamy finish
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The lime helps slow browning.
- Avoid Freezing: The texture changes when frozen, so fresh is best!
Pro Tip: Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salsa before sealing to help keep the color vibrant.
Variations & Customizations
- Make it Vegan: Swap crema Mexicana for dairy-free sour cream or unsweetened coconut yogurt.
- Make it Spicier: Use two jalapeños or add serrano chiles for extra heat.
- Herb Swap: Try a mix of cilantro and parsley for a milder herb profile.
- Zing it Up: Add zest from one of the limes for extra citrusy brightness.
Pair This Salsa With:
- Authentic Carne Asada Tacos
- Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
- Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
- Homemade Tortilla Chips
Final Thoughts
This cilantro lime avocado salsa is the kind of recipe that brings people together. Its creamy, dreamy texture and zingy flavor make it a summer favorite for good reason. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or just treating yourself to taco night, this salsa deserves a spot on the table.
Creamy Cilantro Lime Avocado Salsa Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 tomatillos husked and rinsed
- 1 jalapeño optional, for spice
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 large handful of fresh cilantro
- ½ cup crema Mexicana or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon
- 1 tablespoon salt adjust to taste
- Juice of 2 limes
- ¼ of a white onion
- 1 cup reserved tomatillo boiling water approx.
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Tomatillos (and Jalapeño)
- In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil.
- Add the tomatillos (and jalapeño if using).
- Boil for about 10 minutes, until the tomatillos turn a dull green and soften.
- Reserve about 1 cup of the boiling water before draining.
Step 2: Blend It All Together
- In a high-speed blender, combine:
- 2 avocados
- Cilantro
- Crema Mexicana
- Garlic
- Chicken bouillon
- Salt
- Lime juice
- Onion
- Boiled tomatillos and jalapeño
- About ¾ cup of reserved boiling water
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 3: Taste & Adjust
- Taste the salsa and adjust the salt or lime juice if needed. For more spice, blend in another jalapeño or a pinch of crushed red pepper.
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