Classic Creamy Ranch Dressing Recipe
An easy and enjoyable way to make your food better is to make classic creamy ranch dressing at home. You can make a tasty dressing that tastes much better than store-bought ones with just a few simple items, such as sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, and fresh herbs. This ranch dressing will quickly become a mainstay in your kitchen, whether you use it on salads, as a dip for vegetables, or as a topping for your favorite foods.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sour cream – This adds richness and a slight tanginess.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise – Mayo is key for that smooth creamy texture.
- 1/4 cup buttermilk – Buttermilk gives the ranch its signature tang and helps thin it out.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Adds extra brightness and cuts through the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Brings that essential garlicky flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds a subtle savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried dill – The classic herb for ranch; it gives the dressing its signature flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley – For freshness and color.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – To balance the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – For a touch of spice.
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sour cream and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth. This will form the creamy base of your ranch dressing.
- Add the Buttermilk and Lemon Juice: Pour in the buttermilk and lemon juice. Stir until everything is well combined. You can adjust the amount of buttermilk to control the consistency. If you want a thicker dressing, reduce the amount of buttermilk.
- Season with Herbs and Spices: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and the spices are evenly distributed.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in the freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and a burst of color. You can also add chives or fresh dill if you like a more herbaceous flavor.
- Taste and Adjust: Give the dressing a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer it tangier, add more lemon juice. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne or some hot sauce.
- Chill and Serve: Let the dressing sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve it on your favorite salad, as a dip for veggies, or as a topping for chicken wings, grilled meats, or baked potatoes.
Notes
- Make it Spicy: If you love a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mix. This gives your ranch a spicy twist!
- Consistency: If your ranch dressing is too thick, add more buttermilk to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- Herb Substitutes: If you don’t have dried dill, tarragon or oregano can make great substitutes. Chives or fresh parsley can also be added for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Lighter Version: If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute the sour cream or mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Flavor Boost: For a stronger garlic flavor, consider adding a minced garlic clove instead of garlic powder.
Storage and Freezing
- Storage: Store your homemade ranch dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, so it’s even better after a day or two!
- Freezing: Although it’s not ideal for freezing due to its dairy content, you can freeze ranch dressing in small portions for up to a month. Just keep in mind the texture may change slightly when thawed.
Nutrition Information : Calories: 160 kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11g | Sodium: 250mg | Potassium: 50mg | Fiber: 0g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 8% | Vitamin C: 3% | Calcium: 4% | Iron: 1%
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