Are you craving that creamy, tangy ranch dressing but want to avoid the mayo? You're in luck! This homemade ranch recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, completely mayo-free, and tastes just as delicious, if not better, than store-bought versions. It’s perfect for dipping veggies, slathering on your favorite chicken, or tossing with your salad. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, offering a delicious and satisfying experience without the heavy cream and unhealthy additives found in many commercial dressings. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt for a vegan option)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or vegan sour cream for a vegan option)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Combine the wet ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the buttermilk (or yogurt), sour cream (or vegan sour cream), and lemon juice until smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of sour cream remaining.
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Add the herbs and spices: Add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives, and dill to the bowl. Stir gently to incorporate the herbs into the creamy mixture.
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Season to perfection: Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want more or less of any ingredient depending on your preference.
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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 with your favorite vegetables, chicken wings, salads, or as a dip for fries or chips.
Tips for the Best Ranch Dressing:
- Fresh herbs are key: Using fresh herbs makes a world of difference in the flavor profile of this ranch dressing. If you don't have fresh herbs on hand, you can substitute with dried herbs, but use about 1/3 the amount.
- Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker ranch, you can add a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise (if you're not strictly avoiding it). For a thinner consistency, add a splash of milk or water.
- Make it ahead: This ranch dressing tastes even better the next day! It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations:
- Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Roasted Garlic Ranch: Use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a sweeter and milder flavor.
- Herby Ranch: Experiment with other herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
This easy recipe is perfect for those seeking delicious dishes without compromising on health. Enjoy this creamy, flavorful, and totally mayo-free ranch dressing! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for your next gathering. Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed your homemade ranch!