Classic homemade ranch dressing recipe

Creamy, Tangy, and Herbaceous Dressing That Elevates Any Dish
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Classic homemade ranch dressing recipe

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 20 mins
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Classic ranch dressing is a creamy, tangy, and herbaceous dressing that is incredibly versatile and widely loved. It typically has a smooth texture with visible specks of fresh herbs, giving it a homemade and rustic appeal. The base of the dressing consists of mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk, which provide richness and creaminess. Minced garlic, chopped chives, parsley, and dill contribute to its vibrant flavor profile, while onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper add depth and seasoning. A touch of lemon juice can be added for an extra tangy kick, though it's optional. The dressing is best when allowed to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together and develop fully. Classic ranch dressing is commonly used as a topping for salads, a dip for vegetables or chips, or a sauce for various dishes like chicken wings or sandwiches. Its creamy texture and balanced flavors make it a timeless favorite for many culinary applications.

Ingredients of clasic ranch dressing

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk. Whisk until smooth.

  2. Add minced garlic, chopped chives, parsley, dill, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

  3. If you prefer a tangier dressing, add lemon juice and mix well.

  4. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning according to your preference. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired.

  5. Transfer the ranch dressing to a jar or airtight container.

  6. Refrigerate the dressing for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

  7. Before serving, give the dressing a good stir. If it's too thick, you can thin it out with a little more buttermilk.

  8. Enjoy your homemade classic ranch dressing with salads, vegetables, chicken wings, or as a dipping sauce for your favorite snacks!

  9. This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of ranch dressing. You can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Nutrition Facts

Amount Per Serving
Calories 120kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 11.8g19%
Saturated Fat 2g10%
Cholesterol 10mg4%
Sodium 240mg10%
Total Carbohydrate 2g1%
Sugars 1g
Protein 1g2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used and any modifications made to the recipe. Additionally, serving size and the amount of dressing used can impact nutritional content.

Keywords: Classic ranch dressing Homemade dressing Easy recipe Creamy texture Fresh herbs Tangy flavor Buttermilk base Versatile condiment Salad dressing Dip for snacks

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh ones. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so you'll need to use less. Start with half the amount of dried herbs called for in the recipe and adjust to taste.

Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly before using it in the recipe.

How long will the ranch dressing last in the refrigerator?

Homemade ranch dressing will typically keep well in the refrigerator for up to one week. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. In fact, allowing the flavors to meld together for a few hours or overnight can enhance the taste of the dressing.

Is ranch dressing gluten-free?

This homemade ranch dressing recipe is gluten-free as long as the ingredients used (mayonnaise, sour cream, herbs, etc.) are gluten-free. However, it's always a good idea to double-check ingredient labels to be sure.

Can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, herbs, salt, or pepper to suit your preferences. Taste the dressing as you go and add more seasoning as needed.

What dishes can I serve with ranch dressing?

Ranch dressing is incredibly versatile and can be used as a topping for salads, a dip for vegetables, chips, or chicken wings, or as a sauce for sandwiches and wraps. It adds a delicious creamy and tangy flavor to a wide range of dishes.

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