If you’ve ever drizzled Taco Bell’s Jalapeño Citrus Salsa over a taco, burrito, or grilled quesadilla, you know that irresistible burst of creamy heat with a fresh citrus twist. That bold flavor isn’t just crave-worthy—it’s the perfect complement to Tex-Mex dishes, adding a pop of zingy, savory goodness to every bite.
Until recently, this salsa was only found at Taco Bell restaurants. But now, you can recreate the legendary experience in your own kitchen—no drive-thru necessary! Whether you’re prepping for a meat feast, planning a casual taco night, or jazzing up veggie-packed salads, this easy homemade version brings all the brightness and spice you love. Don’t forget to check out our sauce and treats collections for more Taco Bell-inspired recipes!
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How to make Jalapeño Citrus Salsa
This creamy salsa comes together quickly using simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. The sauce balances creamy richness, spicy jalapeños, tangy citrus, and a hint of herbs. Purée all ingredients together for a silky texture—no special skills required. Let it chill for the flavors to meld, and enjoy restaurant-style flavor at home!
Nutrition facts
Each 2-tablespoon serving of Jalapeño Citrus Salsa averages around 70 calories, 7g fat, 1g carbs, and 0g protein. It’s gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by swapping the mayonnaise and sour cream for plant-based alternatives. The salsa is packed with flavor but not weighed down by heaviness, making it perfect for drizzling, dipping, or spreading.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1/3 cup sour cream — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 2 fresh jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (plus zest of 1 lime) — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 tablespoon orange juice (plus zest of 1/2 orange) — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 teaspoon onion powder — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
Tools you’ll need
- Blender or food processor
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Storage container or a mason jar
Instructions
- Prep the fresh ingredients: Slice fresh jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat), zest, and juice the lime and orange.
- Add to blender: Place jalapeños, mayonnaise, sour cream, citrus juice and zest, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and fresh cilantro in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth: Process the mixture on high until completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Chill: Transfer the salsa to a jar or bowl, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let flavors develop.
- Serve: Drizzle generously over tacos, burritos, salads, or as a dipping sauce—enjoy that Taco Bell magic!
What to serve with
Drinks: Enjoy your salsa with fizzy lime sodas, classic drinks like horchata, or citrus margaritas that enhance its tangy notes.
Sides: Pair Jalapeño Citrus Salsa with tortilla chips for dipping, or spoon over street corn, black bean salads, nachos, and roasted veggies.
Main Dishes: Elevate grilled chicken, steak tacos, burritos, or quesadillas with a generous drizzle—this salsa steals the show on any Tex-Mex plate!
Variations
- Make it vegan by using vegan mayo and plant-based sour cream.
- Dial up the spice: Use serrano peppers or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Add a touch of honey or agave for a sweet-citrus profile.
- Swap in lemon for lime for a slightly different citrus flavor.
- Stir in chopped green onions for extra crunch.
Ingredient Substitutes
- Mayonnaise
- Greek yogurt
- Vegan mayo
- Sour cream (extra)
- Sour Cream
- Crema
- Vegan sour cream
- Thick coconut yogurt
- Fresh Jalapeños
- Pickled jalapeños (drained)
- Serrano peppers
- Canned green chiles
- Lime Juice
- Lemon juice
- Bottled lime juice (no sugar added)
- Rice vinegar (small amount)
- Orange Juice
- Pineapple juice
- Tangerine juice
- Apple juice (mild citrus flavor)
- Cilantro
- Italian parsley
- Green onions (green tops)
- Garlic Powder
- Fresh minced garlic
- Shallot powder
- Roasted garlic paste
Ingredients
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup sour cream
2 fresh jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
2 tablespoons lime juice (plus zest of 1 lime)
1 tablespoon orange juice (plus zest of 1/2 orange)
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
Slice and seed the jalapeño peppers. Zest and juice the lime and orange.
Add mayonnaise, sour cream, jalapeños, lime juice and zest, orange juice and zest, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cilantro to a blender or food processor.
Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Transfer to a bowl or jar, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Stir and serve with your favorite Tex-Mex dishes.
