Healthy Ranch Dressing Recipe

This Healthy Ranch Dressing is a creamy, flavorful alternative to store-bought options. Made with simple ingredients like Greek yogurt, buttermilk, and fresh herbs, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic favorite. Perfect for salads, dips, or drizzling over roasted vegetables, this homemade ranch is light, refreshing, and easy to whip up!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Lower in calories and fat than traditional ranch.
• Quick and Easy: Takes just minutes to prepare.
• Customizable: Adjust the herbs and seasoning to suit your taste.
• Versatile: Use it as a salad dressing, dip, or marinade.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ¾ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh chives (or ½ teaspoon dried chives)
• ¼ teaspoon dried dill
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 clove fresh garlic, minced)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper, more to taste

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Directions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a medium-sized jar or bowl, combine all the ingredients.

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Step 2: Mix

• Option 1: Shake the jar vigorously until the ingredients are well combined.
• Option 2: Use a whisk to mix the ingredients until smooth and creamy.

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Step 3: Chill

Refrigerate the dressing in a covered container for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

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Step 4: Serve

Give the dressing a good shake or stir before serving. Drizzle it over salads, use it as a dip, or enjoy it as a marinade.

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Serving and Storage

• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, depending on the freshness of your yogurt, buttermilk, and mayonnaise. Shake or stir well before serving.

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Variations

• Garlic Ranch Dressing: Use 1 clove of fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a more robust flavor.
• Spicy Ranch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• Avocado Ranch: Blend in half an avocado for a creamier texture and a boost of healthy fats.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based yogurt, non-dairy milk, and vegan mayonnaise.

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FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat or plant-based buttermilk?

Yes! Low-fat buttermilk works well, or you can make a dairy-free version by mixing almond milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar.

2. How can I thicken the dressing?

If you prefer a thicker dressing, reduce the buttermilk slightly or add more Greek yogurt.

3. Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dressing tastes even better after sitting for a few hours in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but remember that dried herbs are more concentrated. Use about half the amount of dried herbs in place of fresh.

5. Is this dressing keto-friendly?

Yes, as long as you use full-fat Greek yogurt and mayonnaise.

6. Can I use this as a dip?

Definitely! This ranch works perfectly as a dip for veggies, chips, or chicken tenders. For a thicker dip, reduce the buttermilk.

7. What salads pair well with this dressing?

This ranch dressing is versatile and pairs well with garden salads, cobb salads, or even taco salads.

8. How can I make it dairy-free?

Replace the buttermilk with a mixture of non-dairy milk and lemon juice, and use plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise.

9. Can I freeze this dressing?

No, it’s not recommended to freeze creamy dressings as the texture can separate upon thawing.

10. What can I do if the dressing tastes too tangy?

Add a small amount of honey or sugar to balance the tanginess.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
• Calories: 43
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 194mg
• Vitamin A: 89IU
• Vitamin C: 1mg

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Conclusion

This Healthy Ranch Dressing is a lightened-up twist on a beloved classic. With its creamy texture and fresh herbaceous flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for dipping, drizzling, or spreading, this homemade ranch dressing proves that healthy can be delicious!

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