Southwest Chipotle Dressing Recipe

This creamy smoky Southwest Chipotle Dressing Recipe is made with mayonnaise, chipotle peppers in adobo, and fresh lime juice, ready in just 5 minutes. The sauce transforms into a pale orange color with bright green flecks of cilantro as soon as it hits the blender. I always keep a jar of this in my fridge for quick lunches.

Better Than Takeaway

I used to buy bottled southwest sauces or ask for extra at my favorite sandwich shops. Nothing ever matched that specific balance of creamy tang and smoky heat when it came from a factory bottle.

The surprise for me was realizing how crucial the adobo sauce is compared to just using dried chili powder. Once I started buying canned chipotle peppers, my homemade versions finally hit the mark.

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Southwest Chipotle Dressing Recipe Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (plus 1 tbsp sauce)
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt

How To Make Southwest Chipotle Dressing Recipe

1. Combine the base: Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, chipotle peppers, and adobo sauce into a blender or food processor.
2. Add seasonings: Toss in the lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, cilantro, and salt.
3. Blend until smooth: Process on high for 30 to 45 seconds until the dressing is creamy and uniform in color.
4. Chill before serving: Transfer the dressing to an airtight jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Recipe Tips

• Control the heat: Adjust the number of chipotle peppers to suit your personal spice tolerance.
• Let it rest: Resting the dressing in the fridge thickens the texture and deepens the smoky flavor.
• Scrape the sides: Stop the blender halfway through to scrape down the edges so no large pepper chunks remain.

What To Serve With Southwest Chipotle Dressing

This creamy sauce is fantastic drizzled over chicken fajita bowls or tossed into a crisp black bean salad. I also use it as a spicy spread for turkey sandwiches and wraps.

How To Store

Keep the dressing in an airtight mason jar or squeeze bottle in the refrigerator for up to one week. Do not freeze this sauce, as the mayonnaise and sour cream will separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute that adds a bit more tang while cutting down on fat.

What if I don’t have a blender?

You can finely mince the chipotle peppers and cilantro by hand, then whisk everything together in a bowl until smooth.

Is this dressing very spicy?

It has a moderate kick from the chipotle peppers. Use just one pepper if you prefer a milder flavor profile.

Nutrition

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 2g
• Protein: 1g