This 5-ingredient creamy salsa dressing is perfect for salads or as a dip. Pair this easy, healthy recipe with taco salad, nachos, fajitas or veggie platters.

Overhead image of light orange sauce in bowl on white countertop, garnished with jalapeno slices and chives.

Salsa is delicious. I think we can all agree on that.

But it’s just not enough to be a good salad dressing. You know? It’s missing fat. It doesn’t have that creamy mouthfeel. And when I top my tacos or nacho salads with salsa alone, things just don’t satisfy like I want them to.

Enter: creamy salsa dressing.

This easy recipe combines delicious salads with sour cream, lime juice, hot sauce and salt for all the flavour and satisfaction you need. Use this as a salad dressing, taco topper, or veggie dip. It’s nourishing, delicious and versatile!

If you’re new here, I’m Miranda! I’m a Registered Dietitian helping you get healthier without feeling deprived. Learn more about my story of finding balance with food or browse more easy recipes.

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Why you’ll love this recipe

Easy. This recipe comes together in seconds but brings all the satisfaction of something store bought.

Creamy and delicious. Fact: veggies need to be paired with something creamy to taste good and this recipe does just the trick.

Lighter than most creamy dressings. If you like to use a LOT of dressing like I do, a slightly lighter version like this one will leave you feeling great. 

It’s got nutrition too. Last time I checked, salsa was made of veggies… ha! But seriously, the salsa and lime juice bring some vitamins to the table, and that’s never a bad thing.

Ingredients and substitutions

You’ll need only 5-ingredients to make this creamy salsa dressing for salads or dip:

  • Sour cream–I used light sour cream, but not non-fat. Choose the fat percentage that satisfies you and aligns with your health goals!
  • Salsa–make sure to use a salsa you love because this flavor will dominate!
  • Lime juice–acidity helps balance flavours. You just need a squeeze!
  • Hot sauce–this doesn’t add too much spice, I promise. But feel free to leave this out.
  • Salt–because everything tasty needs a little salt. Just a pinch!
Ingredients in white bowls displayed on white marble countertop - lime, salsa, sour cream, salt and hot sauce.

How to make creamy salsa salad dressing

Step 1: Combine ingredients in a bowl.

Add sour cream, salsa, lime juice, hot sauce, and salt to a bowl. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Store or serve.

Add dressing to your meal and enjoy! If you have extra or want to save for later, store dressing in an airtight container in the fridge.

Variations and swaps

  • High protein: swap sour cream for greek yogurt.
  • Vegan: substitute sour cream for vegan yogurt or mayonnaise.
  • Spicy: add 1-2 Tbsp of canned green chillies. 
  • Ranch: add 1-2 Tbsp of ranch seasoning.
  • Taco: add 1-2 Tbsp of taco seasoning.

What to serve with creamy salsa dressing

This recipe is perfect as a salad dressing, veggie dip, or taco topper. You can serve it with:

  • Nacho salad
  • Taco salad
  • Raw veggies
  • French fries
  • Zucchini fries
  • Quesadillas
  • Burgers
  • Fajitas

Frequently asked questions

Can’t I just use salsa?

Sure! Use whatever condiment satisfies you and aligns with your health goals.

What if I prefer full fat sour cream?

Use whatever fat percentage you love the most! Full fat sour cream will make this dressing a bit more calorie-dense, but equally as delicious.

How can I make this dressing more smooth?

Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth, about 10-15 seconds.

Can I use greek yogurt instead?

Yes, you can swap sour cream for greek yogurt, regular plain yogurt, or mayonnaise. Using greek yogurt will make this dip higher in protein, but it will make for a more tangy flavor.

Can I make this dressing in advance?

Yes, combine ingredients and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge. Stir well before serving.

Overhead image of light orange sauce in bowl surrounded by chopped vegetables, garnished with jalapeno slices and chives.

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Overhead image of light orange sauce in bowl on white countertop, garnished with jalapeno slices and chives.
5 from 2 votes

Creamy salsa dressing

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 2 minutes
This 5-ingredient creamy salsa dressing is perfect for salads or as a dip. Pair with taco salad, nachos or veggie platters.
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Ingredients
 

  • 1/2 cup light or 5% sour cream, or fat percentage of choice
  • 1/4 cup salsa
  • 1/4 lime, juiced, or 1 Tbsp lime juice
  • 3 dashes hot sauce
  • pinch salt

Instructions
 

  • Add sour cream, salsa, lime juice, hot sauce, and salt to a bowl.
  • Mix until well combined. Add dressing to your meal and enjoy!
Calories: 30kcal, Carbohydrates: 2g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 2g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 7mg, Sodium: 88mg, Potassium: 72mg, Fiber: 0.3g, Sugar: 1g, Vitamin A: 116IU, Vitamin C: 1mg, Calcium: 31mg, Iron: 0.1mg
Cuisine: American
Course: Dips and Dressings