Tired of the same old boring salad dressings? Craving a vibrant, flavorful addition to your favorite dishes? Then look no further! This cilantro ranch dressing recipe is about to become your new go-to. It's incredibly easy to make, bursting with fresh herbs, and a perfect complement to everything from salads and tacos to dipping vegetables and fries. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this delicious and healthy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite – full-fat, light, or even vegan!)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1/4 cup packed fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or milk)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth.
- Add herbs and spices: Stir in the chopped cilantro, green onions, minced garlic, onion powder, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Brighten with acid: Add the lime juice and buttermilk (or milk). Whisk until everything is well combined and the dressing is creamy and consistent.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the dressing and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add more lime juice for extra tang, salt for extra savoriness, or more cilantro for a stronger herbal flavor.
- Chill (optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is optional but highly recommended.
Tips for the Best Cilantro Ranch Dressing:
- Fresh is best: Using fresh cilantro and other herbs will make a world of difference in the taste of your dressing.
- Don't over-process: Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the dressing watery. A gentle whisk is all you need.
- Adjust to your taste: This recipe is a guideline; feel free to adjust the amount of cilantro, lime juice, or other seasonings to suit your preferences.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Avocado Ranch: Blend in half an avocado for a creamy, richer dressing.
- Roasted Garlic Ranch: Use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a sweeter, more mellow flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on mayonnaise and sour cream type)
- Fat: High (mostly from mayonnaise and sour cream)
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This cilantro ranch dressing is a fantastic addition to your quick dinner ideas, making healthy meals effortless and delicious. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your homemade cooking journey, this easy recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!