Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite
In the world of condiments and dressings, few hold a candle to the creamy, tangy goodness of Ranch dressing. This beloved dressing has become a staple in kitchens across the globe, adorning everything from salads to chicken wings with its unmistakable flavor. While store-bought versions are readily available, there’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up your own homemade Ranch dressing from scratch. Not only does it allow you to customize the flavors to your liking, but it also ensures a freshness and quality that’s hard to match with commercial alternatives.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the creation of the perfect homemade Ranch dressing. We’ll dive into the history of this iconic dressing, explore the key ingredients, and provide you with a step-by-step recipe that’s sure to elevate your salads, appetizers, and meals to new heights.
The History of Ranch Dressing:
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the history of Ranch dressing. This creamy concoction was born on a ranch in Santa Barbara, California, in the early 1950s. Created by a talented cowboy named Steve Henson and his wife, Gayle, the original dressing was served to guests at their Hidden Valley Ranch. It quickly gained popularity, and by the 1960s, the Hensons were packaging their creation for sale.
Today, Ranch dressing has grown far beyond its humble beginnings and has become a true American classic. Its versatility has made it a go-to choice for everything from dipping vegetables to dressing salads and even slathering on pizzas and burgers. While the bottled versions are convenient, there’s something special about making your own Ranch dressing from fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The Key Ingredients:
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s familiarize ourselves with the key ingredients that make Ranch dressing so delectable:
¼ C Black Pepper
1 1/2 C Parsley Flakes
½ C Garlic Salt
2 Tbsp Kosher Salt
¼ C Granulated Garlic
3/4 C Granulated Onion
2 Tbsp Dill Weed
2 cups mayonnaise
2 cups buttermilk
1 1/2 cups sour cream
1 teaspoon of lemon juice
PREPARATION:
1. Combine all ingredients, store in an airtight container. Makes about 3 ½ cups of dry mix
2. To Make Dressing, whisk together 2 Tbsp of mix with 2 Cups each of mayonnaise and buttermilk 1 ½ Cups sour cream, & 1 tsp Lemon Juice. Refrigerate for 2 hours. Makes 1 ¾ Quarts
How can I make ranch dip instead of dressing?
If you’re tired of eating ranch over green salads, it’s great with lots of other foods too! I love to dip french fries, buffalo wings, chicken strips, cucumber slices and other fresh produce in ranch. It’s also delicious on hamburgers!
Nutrition Facts:
While ranch dressing is undoubtedly delicious, it’s essential to be mindful of its nutritional content. Here’s an approximate breakdown for a 2-tablespoon serving of homemade ranch dressing:
Calories: 130
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 140mg
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 1g
Conclusion:
Homemade ranch dressing is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can elevate your meals. With fresh ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a creamy, tangy dressing that’s perfect for salads, dipping, or drizzling over your favorite dishes. Remember to enjoy it in moderation, considering its nutritional content. So, why settle for store-bought when you can whip up this delicious homemade ranch dressing in no time? Give it a try and savor the difference!
HAVE YOU TRIED THIS RECIPES?!
RATE and COMMENT below! I would love to hear your experience.