Are you tired of the same old salad dressings? Do you crave something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This homemade pumpkin seed ranch dressing is the perfect solution. It's creamy, tangy, and boasts a delightful nutty flavor thanks to the addition of roasted pumpkin seeds. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick dinner idea, yet want something delicious and nutritious. It's a healthy meal upgrade that the whole family will love!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Roasting the Pumpkin Seeds:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Let them cool completely.
Making the Dressing:
- Combine the cooled roasted pumpkin seeds, water, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, onion powder, dill, salt, and pepper in a high-speed blender.
- Blend until completely smooth and creamy. If it's too thick, add a teaspoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions:
This versatile pumpkin seed ranch is perfect for more than just salads! Use it as a dip for vegetables, a topping for baked potatoes, or even as a marinade for chicken or fish. The possibilities are endless! This easy recipe truly elevates any dish. It makes a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire and is a simple way to incorporate homemade cooking into your routine.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Seed Ranch:
- Toasting the seeds: Toasting the pumpkin seeds enhances their flavor significantly. Don't skip this step!
- Greek yogurt: Full-fat Greek yogurt creates a richer, creamier dressing. However, you can use low-fat or non-fat if you prefer.
- Fresh ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and fresh herbs will make a noticeable difference in the overall taste.
- Storage: Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Herby Ranch: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, chives, or oregano.
- Creamier Ranch: Add a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This pumpkin seed ranch dressing is a delicious and healthy addition to your favorite recipes. It's a simple, yet impressive way to transform your meals into something truly special. Enjoy!