The Best Creamy Cilantro Dressing (Cafe Rio Copycat – but Healthier!)

 

 

Creator: Leslie Stokes

If you’re anything like me, you love a good taco salad – but it’s the dressing that really makes it, right? This Creamy Cilantro Dressing is straight from my Meal Prep in One Hour cookbook, and I swear, it’s a total game-changer. It gives major Cafe Rio vibes but with a healthier twist that won’t leave you feeling heavy.

I’ve been pouring this over everything lately – especially my taco salad this week – and it’s safe to say I’m obsessed.

 

Why You’ll Love This Dressing:

 

 

  • It’s creamy and full of flavor without being loaded with calories.

  • Made with Greek yogurt for a protein boost (we’re skipping the cottage cheese for this one!).

  • It’s super quick to make – just blend and go.

  • Perfect for meal prep – it keeps so well in the fridge.

 

 

What Makes It Healthier:

 

Traditional creamy dressings can be super heavy on the mayo or sour cream, but I swap in Greek yogurt to keep things light, tangy, and high in protein. You still get all the creamy goodness, but it’s something you can feel good about drizzling (or pouring, no judgment) all over your meals.

 

How to Use This Creamy Cilantro Dressing:

 

 

  • Taco Salad – obviously! Add some grilled chicken or beef, black beans, avocado, and crunchy tortilla strips.

  • Burrito Bowls – over rice, beans, fajita veggies, and your fave protein.

  • Dipping Sauce – for veggies, quesadillas, or even grilled shrimp.

  • Wraps or Sandwiches – as a creamy, zesty spread.

  • Grilled Veggies – especially zucchini, bell peppers, or roasted sweet potatoes.

Meal Prep Tips

This dressing lasts about 4–5 days in the fridge, so it’s perfect to make ahead for your weekly lunches or dinners. I love prepping it on Sunday and using it throughout the week for salads, wraps, or quick protein bowls.

Pro Tip: The flavor gets better the longer it sits, so if you can make it ahead of time – do it! You’ll thank yourself later.

 

Creamy Cilantro Lime Dressing

This zesty cilantro lime dressing packs so much flavor! it’s great to drizzle on any taco bowl/tacos.
Prep Time 8 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine dressing
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 3/4 cup cottage cheese or greek yogurt
  • 1/4 tsp cumin
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 cup cilantro
  • 2 tsp white vinegar

Let's Make It
 

  • a=Add all of the ingredients into a mason jar or hand blender and blend until smooth + creamy.
  • Adjust seasonings to taste.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

Notes

CALORIES: 22
FAT: 0.1 G
CARBS: 2.5 G
PROTEIN: 2.8 G
Keyword cilantro cream sauce, cilantro dressing, creamy cilantro dressing, green goddess salad dressing, healthy salad dressing

Nutrition Facts

CALORIES: 22

FAT: 0.1 G

CARBS: 2.5 G

PROTEIN: 2.8 G

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