Before you begin, ensure you have all the ingredients laid out. Fresh is best. Grab a cutting board, a sharp knife, and your trusty blender or food processor.

Rinse the cilantro under cool running water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat it dry with a paper towel. You’ll need about ¾ cup of finely chopped cilantro. This herb is the star of the show, so don’t skimp on it!

Peel and mince the garlic clove. If you prefer a milder dressing, carefully remove the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño. This reduces the heat and allows the other flavors to shine. Dice the jalapeño into smaller pieces, making blending easier.

Add the lime juice, minced garlic, chopped jalapeño, cilantro, cumin, and sea salt into your blender or food processor. This mix is the heart of your dressing, so ensure everything is included.

With your blender set to high, blend these ingredients until smooth. You’ll want a cohesive mix, so keep blending until everything is fully broken down.

With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil through the opening in the lid. This creates an emulsion, helping the oil blend smoothly with the other ingredients. If your blender has a tamper, use it to help push the ingredients down.

Once blended, taste your dressing. Add pepper and sweetener based on your preference. It should be a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory. You can adjust seasoning as needed—this step makes all the difference.

Carefully pour your cilantro lime dressing into a clean glass jar or container. An airtight container will preserve freshness. If it separates after sitting, just give it a quick shake or stir.