Are you craving that creamy, cool ranch dressing but watching your carb intake? Look no further! This homemade keto ranch dressing recipe delivers all the tangy, herbaceous goodness you love without the guilt. It’s incredibly easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is perfect for dipping veggies, drizzling over salads, or as a marinade for chicken or fish. Get ready to elevate your keto meals with this delicious and satisfying recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat, preferably avocado oil based for extra healthy fats)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (full-fat)
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or substitute with 2 tablespoons of milk and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon dried onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (to taste)
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Add the chopped parsley, chives, dill, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Adjust Acidity: Stir in the lemon juice, starting with 1 tablespoon and adding more to taste. The lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the mayonnaise and sour cream. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste! Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Keto Ranch Dressing:
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs make all the difference in the flavor profile. If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with dried herbs, but use about 1/3 the amount.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs, spices, and lemon juice to your preference. Some people prefer a more garlicky ranch, while others prefer a stronger dill flavor.
- Make it Ahead: This ranch dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will actually deepen over time.
- Experiment with Add-ins: For extra flavor and texture, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or some finely grated Parmesan cheese for a sharper, more savory taste.
Variations:
- Spicy Keto Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Garlic Lover's Keto Ranch: Double the amount of garlic powder for a more intense garlic flavor.
- Creamy Avocado Ranch: For an even creamier texture, add 1/4 of an avocado, mashed, to the dressing.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
*Calories: (will vary depending on specific ingredients used) *Fat: High *Protein: Low *Carbohydrates: Very Low (check your specific ingredients for accurate carb count)
This delicious and easy keto ranch dressing is a perfect addition to your healthy meal plan. It’s a versatile condiment that can be used in countless ways, adding a burst of flavor to your low-carb lifestyle. Enjoy!