A piquant South American sauce, aji complements almost any dish in which plain hot sauce might be used.

Makes 1 cup, for 24 servings

ACTIVE TIME: 10 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 10 minutes

EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy

10 scallions (white part plus 1/2 inch of green), very finely chopped
2 serrano chiles or jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
1/4 cup lime juice
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Combine scallions, chiles, cilantro, vinegar, lime juice and salt to taste in a small bowl.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per serving: 19 calories; 0 g fat (0 g sat, 0 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 5 g carbohydrate; 0 g protein; 0 g fiber; 54 mg sodium.

MAKE AHEAD TIP: Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.