Tired of store-bought ranch dressing that’s full of preservatives and lacks that fresh, homemade taste? Then get ready to dive into this incredibly easy recipe for Uncle Dan's Ranch Dressing! This recipe is a family favorite, a delicious and healthy addition to your homemade cooking repertoire, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you need quick dinner ideas. It’s so simple, even beginner cooks will master it, making it one of the best recipes you’ll ever try. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite brand!)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or sour cream for a richer dressing)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon dried onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
Instructions:
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Combine the wet ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and buttermilk (or sour cream) until smooth and well combined. This is the base of your delicious ranch.
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Add the herbs: Next, stir in the chopped fresh parsley, chives, and dill. These fresh herbs give the dressing its vibrant flavor. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of herbs to your liking.
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Incorporate the spices: Now add the onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. This step is crucial for creating a truly exceptional ranch dressing. The longer it chills, the better it tastes!
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Enjoy! Once chilled, your Uncle Dan’s Ranch Dressing is ready to enjoy. Serve it with your favorite vegetables, as a dip for chips and crackers, or as a dressing for salads and sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!
Tips for the Best Ranch Dressing:
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Fresh Herbs are Key: Using fresh herbs makes a world of difference in the taste of your ranch dressing. If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with dried herbs, but use about 1/3 of the amount called for in the recipe.
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Adjust to your Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preferences. If you like a garlicky ranch, add more garlic powder. If you prefer a spicier version, add more cayenne pepper.
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Make it Ahead: This ranch dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will actually improve over time!
Variations:
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Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
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Avocado Ranch: Blend in 1/2 of a ripe avocado for a creamy, healthier twist.
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Roasted Garlic Ranch: Use roasted garlic instead of garlic powder for a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on the mayonnaise and buttermilk used)
- Fat: High
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This recipe is a simple, healthy, and delicious addition to your weekly meal plan. It’s perfect for those wanting easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor, making it a true staple for quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes. Enjoy the homemade goodness!