Spicy Basil Sauce with Garlic and Jalapeno
Looking for something to make with that huge bunch of fresh basil? This recipe for spicy basil sauce is the answer. Featuring creamy avocado and sour cream to balance the kick from the jalapenos and garlic, and a bright burst of fresh lime, this tasty green sauce has it all.
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Nothing says summer like fresh herbs all over. From cilantro to basil, herby goodness is everywhere. This basil sauce recipe is moving its way up our favorites list super fast. You need this sauce for summer. Need. Check out all of our spring and summer recipes for more inspo.
Why you will love this recipe
This spicy basil cream sauce has an over-the-top fresh flavor. Like, hard not to just spoon it in your mouth fresh.
Can you say versatile? This sauce goes on ev-er-y-thing. From pasta to seafood, to tacos to eggs, you can spoon a dollop of it wherever you like. It will make it better, trust.
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. You can also try one of these gluten-free pasta alternatives. Bonus!
Ingredients
Find the complete ingredient list, with measurements, in the recipe card below.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – The star of the show! I adore the peppery, aromatic herb, and I think you do too.
- Jalapeño Peppers – For the ‘spicy’ element of this recipe. I keep a few seeds in there for a medium spicy sauce.
- Garlic – Fresh is preferred, but garlic powder will work in a pinch.
- Avocado – We use half of a creamy, ripe avocado to add richness.
- Olive Oil – I use a light olive oil for the neutral flavor, but extra virgin olive oil works too. It will help to emulsify the sauce.
- Sour Cream – This helps balance the spice from the peppers and garlic.
- Parmesan – Freshly shredded parm. I only use the real stuff.
- Fresh Lime Juice – A hint of acidity to brighten the sauce and bring a freshness.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings for everything. A pinch of fine sea salt and freshly ground pepper bring out the best of your ingredients.
Equipment
You will need a few key pieces of equipment to make this recipe.
- Immersion Blender – Aka stick blender or hand blender, this versatile kitchen tool is great for making quick sauces. You can also use a food processor or a high-powered blender, such as a Vitamix or Blendtec.
- Tall Jar – I use this Weck jar or both blending the sauce in and storing it. Got to love that double duty.
- 4-point stainless steel blade that quickly blends ingredients.
- Includes a blending jar with a lid that is great for individual blending jobs, as well as serving from or storing for later use.
Instructions
Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom for the FULL recipe details.
Step 1
First, get started by roughly chopping the jalapenos and peeling and crushing the garlic.
Expert Tip!
If you want flavour without too much spice, slice out the seeds and membranes before blending. For maximum heat, leave them in.
Step 2
Then, place the garlic, peppers, lime, and oil in a high-sided glass jar. Use the immersion blender to pulse them, breaking them down.
Step 2
Next, add the remaining ingredients and blend the mixture until it is smooth.
Step 3
Finally, taste the sauce and add more salt or pepper, if desired.
Substitutions and recipe variations
- This is delicious using other fresh herbs as well, such as cilantro, chives, parsley, or a combination of all.
- Use lemon juice for a milder citrus note.
- Make it uber creamy by substituting 1/4 cup of mayonnaise for the avocado.
- For more heat, use serrano or Fresno peppers.
- Use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Serving suggestions
- It’s excellent as a pasta sauce. Basically, cook your pasta of choice, add a little pasta water to the sauce, and toss it to coat. Yum times ten.
- Drizzle it over chicken taco salad or this taco rice bowl with ground beef.
- Serve it alongside grilled protein such as steak, shrimp, or chicken for a herby dip.
- Use it as a sandwich spread, a dip for roasted veggies, or spooned on eggs. If you used this as a salad dressing, your greens wouldn’t be mad about it.
Want more herby goodness in your life? You must check out these chimichurri chicken thighs if you know what’s good for you. 😉
FAQS
Not in this recipe. The fresh basil is essential for flavor and texture.
It is close but not quite. There are no pine nuts in this sauce, and it has the spicy addition of the jalapenos.
Storage tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. We don’t recommend freezing this recipe as the consistency is pretty weird when it thaws out. This sauce is best enjoyed fresh.
More recipes with basil
If you’ve tried this spicy basil sauce, please take a moment to rate it and share your thoughts by leaving a comment below. I’m always interested in feedback!
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Spicy Basil Sauce with Garlic and Jalapeno
Ingredients
- 2 medium jalapeno peppers
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
- 2 tbsp olive oil *Use light for a more neutral flavor.
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ⅛ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- ½ medium avocado
- 2 tbsp shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Start by slicing off the stem end of the jalapeno peppers, then cut them in half lengthwise. If you want less heat, use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and white membrane. Cut the peppers into chunks.
- Peel the garlic cloves and crush them.
- Place garlic, peppers, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a high-sided glass jar. Then, using the immersion blender, pulse them to break them down.
- Add the remaining ingredients and blend the mixture until it is smooth.
- Taste and add more salt or pepper, if desired.
Could you sub sour cream for yogurt?
Thanks
Yes! I would use a thick, unsweetened Greek yogurt.
Thank You for replying
Anytime!