Best Homemade-Ranch Salad Dressing

There’s something truly satisfying about crafting your own ranch salad dressing at home. Not only is it better than anything you’ll find on a store shelf, but it also takes just minutes to prepare. Imagine a creamy blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk, enhanced with a burst of fresh lemon juice and a medley of herbs. This is a ranch dressing you’ll want to make again and again, perfect for drizzling over salads or serving as a dip for fresh veggies like carrots, broccoli, and celery. Once you try it, it’ll surely earn a permanent spot in your refrigerator.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make in just a few minutes.
• Healthier and tastier than store-bought versions.
• Versatile as a salad dressing or dip for vegetables.
• Customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Jar or airtight container for storage

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup buttermilk or regular milk
• 3/4 – 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried chives
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/8 teaspoon finely cracked pepper
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice to taste, approximately 1-3 teaspoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and milk until smooth.
2. Add the dried dill, parsley, chives, onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, and pepper. Whisk until all the spices are well combined.
3. Add the lemon juice and whisk again. Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
4. Pour the dressing into a jar and chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
5. This dressing will keep nicely in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• For a thicker consistency, use less buttermilk or milk.
• Adjust the herbs and spices to match your flavor preferences.
• Chill the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Substitute white distilled vinegar for lemon juice if you prefer a different kind of tang.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Use fresh herbs if available for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 80-100
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute for sour cream, adding a nice tang to the dressing.

How long does homemade ranch dressing last?
This dressing will last up to a week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, use vegan mayonnaise and plant-based milk. You can also use a dairy-free sour cream alternative.

Conclusion

This homemade ranch salad dressing is a delightful addition to any kitchen. Once you try making it yourself, you’ll never want to go back to the store-bought kind. Give it a whirl and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your variations and see how this dressing becomes a staple in your home. Enjoy!