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If you’re after a more flavorful alternative to store-bought varieties, this homemade ranch dressing is your answer. With a blend of tangy, creamy, and aromatic notes, this dressing complements salads and doubles as a versatile dip. Plus, the ingredients are likely already in your pantry.
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- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses fresh ingredients for superior taste and texture.
- Quick to prepare with minimal effort.
- Customizable to suit your texture preference.
- Stores easily in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Ingredients
- ½ cup sour cream or whole milk Greek yogurt: Provides a creamy base and tanginess; Greek yogurt offers a slightly thicker, protein-rich option.
- ¼ to ½ cup mayonnaise: Adds richness; adjust for desired thickness.
- 2 to 4 tablespoons buttermilk or any milk: Offers tanginess and adjusts consistency; any milk can be substituted for a milder flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried dill: Imparts aromatic herby notes; can be replaced with more fresh dill if desired.
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice: Enhances freshness and acidity.
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar: Introduces a sharp tanginess to balance the creaminess.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a mild garlic flavor without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle allium note to the dressing.
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances flavor; start small and adjust.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Offers a slight kick and depth.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional): Adds a subtle onion flavor and visual appeal.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional): Increases herby freshness and complexity.
How to Make It
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, ¼ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons milk, dried dill, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper. Observe the consistency; for a thicker dressing, blend in more mayonnaise, and for thinner, incorporate additional milk, taking into account the desired texture for either pouring or dipping.
Step 2: Adjust for Flavor
Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt if necessary. Pepper can be increased for a more pronounced spiciness. Stir in chives and dill if using, which will add a fresh, vibrant element to the dressing.
Step 3: Serve or Store
Use the dressing immediately as a salad topping or dip. For optimal freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 5 days. Shake or stir again before serving to reintegrate any separation.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this dressing thicker?
Yes, to thicken, increase the amount of mayonnaise or use Greek yogurt for a denser consistency.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely. Fresh dill can replace dried dill for a more vibrant herby note, though the flavor may be less concentrated.
How can I make this dressing dairy-free?
Substitute the sour cream or Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative, and use almond or soy milk in place of buttermilk.
