Basil Buttermilk Dressing

Basil Buttermilk Dressing Recipe from USA | Ingredients: basil, buttermilk, mayonnaise, salt, pepper

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Basil Buttermilk Dressing is a refreshing and flavorful condiment that can elevate the taste of any salad or dish it accompanies. This dressing combines the aromatic freshness of basil with the tangy creaminess of buttermilk, balanced with the richness of mayonnaise and seasoned with salt and pepper for a simple yet sophisticated flavor profile. Perfect for summer salads, this dressing is also versatile enough to be used as a marinade or a dip.

History

The use of herbs in dressings dates back to ancient civilizations, where they were prized for their culinary and medicinal properties. Basil, in particular, has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. The combination of basil with buttermilk is a relatively modern innovation, reflecting a fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors. This recipe, with its focus on fresh, light ingredients, is a testament to the evolving nature of culinary traditions, adapting classic elements to suit modern tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

1.33 cups of lightly packed fresh basil leaves
1 cup of non-fat buttermilk
0.33 cups of reduced-calorie mayonnaise
0.75 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of pepper

How to prepare

Combine the first three ingredients in the container of an electric blender.
Process until the basil is finely chopped; pour the mixture into a small bowl.
Add salt and pepper; stir well.
Cover and chill until ready to use.

Variations

For a vegan version, substitute the buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, and use vegan mayonnaise. Add a clove of garlic or a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. For a spicier kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor, use fresh basil leaves that are bright green and free from dark spots. When blending the basil with buttermilk and mayonnaise, make sure to process until the mixture is smooth for a creamy texture. If the dressing is too thick, you can thin it with a little more buttermilk until you reach the desired consistency. For a richer flavor, let the dressing chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

This dressing is perfect drizzled over fresh mixed greens, sliced tomatoes, or cucumber salad. It also makes an excellent dip for raw vegetables or a sauce for grilled chicken or fish. For a unique twist, try using it as a dressing for potato salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is blending the ingredients to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Using an electric blender ensures that the basil is finely chopped and thoroughly incorporated into the buttermilk and mayonnaise.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh basil is not available, you can use 2 tablespoons of dried basil, though the flavor will be less vibrant. Greek yogurt can be used in place of buttermilk for a thicker, protein-rich alternative. For a lower-fat version, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a low-fat mayonnaise.

Make Ahead Tips

This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious after a day or two.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dressing in a small pitcher or bowl alongside a salad for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This Basil Buttermilk Dressing pairs wonderfully with a simple mixed green salad, a tomato and mozzarella caprese, or a grilled vegetable platter. It also complements grilled chicken, fish, or steak, adding a refreshing herbaceous note.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This dressing is not suitable for freezing. Stir well before serving, as separation may occur during storage. There is no need for reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Basil Buttermilk Dressing contains approximately 45 calories, making it a light addition to any meal. This low-calorie count is achieved by using reduced-calorie mayonnaise and buttermilk, allowing you to enjoy the dressing without overindulging.

Carbohydrates

This Basil Buttermilk Dressing is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the reduced-calorie mayonnaise and the buttermilk. The total carbohydrate content per serving is approximately 2 grams, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

The dressing contains healthy fats from the reduced-calorie mayonnaise and buttermilk. The total fat content per serving is about 5 grams, with 1 gram of saturated fat. Using reduced-calorie mayonnaise helps keep the fat content in check without compromising the dressing's creamy texture.

Proteins

This dressing is not a significant source of protein, containing less than 1 gram per serving. It is primarily used as a flavor enhancer for dishes that include other protein sources.

Vitamins and minerals

Basil is a good source of Vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health. This dressing also provides small amounts of calcium and Vitamin A from the buttermilk and mayonnaise. The nutritional content will vary slightly based on the specific brands of buttermilk and mayonnaise used.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (buttermilk) and eggs (mayonnaise), which are common allergens. Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution and consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Basil Buttermilk Dressing is a low-calorie, low-carbohydrate condiment that adds a burst of flavor to dishes without adding significant amounts of fat or sugar. It's a healthy choice for those looking to enhance their meals with a creamy, herb-infused dressing.

Summary

Basil Buttermilk Dressing is a versatile, flavorful, and healthy addition to any meal. With its combination of fresh basil, tangy buttermilk, and creamy mayonnaise, it offers a perfect balance of flavors that can enhance a wide variety of dishes. Whether used as a salad dressing, a dip, or a sauce, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Mary's house for a backyard barbecue. Mary always had a knack for whipping up delicious dishes, and that day was no exception. As we sat down to eat, she brought out a beautiful salad drizzled with a creamy basil buttermilk dressing.

I had never tasted anything quite like it before. The tangy buttermilk combined with the fresh basil and other herbs created a flavor explosion in my mouth. I couldn't stop raving about it, and Mary graciously offered to share the recipe with me.

As she dictated the ingredients and instructions, I scribbled furiously in my notebook, eager to replicate the dressing at home. I made a mental note to plant some basil in my garden so I could have a fresh supply at my fingertips.

When I got home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work. I carefully measured out the buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, and various herbs, following Mary's instructions to a tee. As I blended everything together in my trusty food processor, the familiar aroma of basil filled my kitchen, transporting me back to that sunny afternoon at Mary's house.

When I poured the finished dressing over a simple green salad, I couldn't believe how closely it resembled Mary's version. The creamy texture, the zesty flavor – it was all there. I was overjoyed at my success and couldn't wait to share the dressing with my family and friends.

From that day on, basil buttermilk dressing became a staple in my kitchen. I served it at every gathering, from summer picnics to holiday dinners. It was always a hit, and people would often ask me for the recipe. I happily obliged, passing on Mary's secret to anyone who wanted to try their hand at making it.

Over the years, I made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding a touch of honey for sweetness or a squeeze of lemon for extra zing. I experimented with different herbs and spices, tailoring the dressing to suit my mood or the occasion. But no matter how I tinkered with it, the essence of Mary's creation remained intact – a delicious homage to that fateful barbecue where I first discovered it.

As time went on, I learned that Mary had picked up the recipe from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a friend many years ago. The dressing had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own unique spin to it. I was honored to be a part of this culinary lineage, carrying on the tradition in my own kitchen.

I often think about the power of food to connect us – to our past, to our loved ones, to our shared experiences. Every time I make basil buttermilk dressing, I am reminded of the day I first tasted it at Mary's house, of the joy and camaraderie that comes with sharing a meal with friends. And I am grateful for the opportunity to create new memories with this beloved recipe.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a fresh and flavorful dressing to elevate your salads, look no further than my recipe for basil buttermilk dressing. It may have humble beginnings, but its taste is anything but ordinary. Just one bite, and you'll be transported to a sunny backyard barbecue, surrounded by good food and even better company. Enjoy!