Blue Cheese Buttermilk Dressing

Introduction

History

The use of blue cheese in dressings dates back to the early 20th century, with its origins often linked to the classic Cobb salad. The combination of blue cheese with buttermilk for a dressing, however, has evolved over time, with various iterations enhancing salads, burgers, and even steaks. This particular recipe brings together a simple yet perfect balance of flavors, paying homage to the traditional use of blue cheese in dressings while offering a modern, easy-to-prepare option for today's home cooks.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor, use high-quality, full-fat mayonnaise and real buttermilk. The quality of the blue cheese also significantly impacts the dressing's taste; opt for a creamy, bold variety for maximum flavor. If the dressing is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little more buttermilk until you reach your desired thickness. For a smoother dressing, blend the ingredients using a food processor or blender.

Serving Suggestions

This dressing is incredibly versatile and can be served over a classic wedge salad, drizzled over grilled vegetables, or used as a dip for buffalo wings. It also makes a great topping for burgers or a flavorful addition to wraps and sandwiches.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing this dressing is thorough mixing to ensure that the flavors meld together beautifully. For a smoother texture, as mentioned, blending the ingredients can create a more uniform consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

If buttermilk is not available, a mixture of milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar can be used as a substitute. Feta or gorgonzola can replace blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will continue to develop and meld, often resulting in an even tastier dressing after a day or two.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dressing in a small pitcher or bowl, garnished with additional crumbled blue cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. For a decorative touch, add a sprig of fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

Pairing Recommendations

This dressing pairs beautifully with crisp, bitter greens like endive or radicchio, which balance the richness of the blue cheese. It also complements the sweetness of fruits like pear or apple in a salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. As this dressing is best served chilled, there is no need for reheating. Stir well before serving if separation occurs.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of this Blue Cheese Buttermilk Dressing contains approximately 140 calories. The majority of these calories come from fats, making it a calorie-dense option best enjoyed in moderation.

Carbohydrates

This Blue Cheese Buttermilk Dressing is low in carbohydrates, with each serving containing approximately 1 gram of carbs. This makes it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

Fats

The dressing is rich in fats, primarily from the mayonnaise and blue cheese. Each serving contains about 15 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. The use of full-fat mayonnaise and real blue cheese contributes to the dressing's creamy texture and flavor.

Proteins

Each serving of this dressing provides about 2 grams of protein, mainly from the blue cheese. While not a significant source of protein, it adds a slight boost to the nutritional profile of the dressing.

Vitamins and minerals

Blue cheese is a good source of calcium and phosphorus, both of which are present in this dressing. These minerals are essential for bone health. The dressing also contains small amounts of vitamin A and some B vitamins, contributed by the mayonnaise and buttermilk.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (blue cheese, buttermilk, mayonnaise) and eggs (mayonnaise), which are common allergens. Individuals with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients should avoid this dressing.

Summary

Overall, the Blue Cheese Buttermilk Dressing is a flavorful, high-fat, low-carb option that adds a rich, tangy taste to various dishes. While it provides some essential nutrients, it is calorie-dense and should be consumed in moderation, especially by those watching their calorie intake.

Summary

The Blue Cheese Buttermilk Dressing is a testament to the timeless appeal of blue cheese in culinary applications. With its rich, tangy flavor profile, this dressing can enhance a wide range of dishes, from salads to sandwiches to grilled vegetables. Easy to prepare and adaptable to various dietary needs, it's a versatile addition to any home cook's repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was at a potluck dinner hosted by my dear friend Margaret, who was known for her delicious homemade dressings. As soon as I took a bite of the salad dressed with her Blue Cheese Buttermilk Dressing, I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

I approached Margaret and asked her for the recipe, but she simply smiled and said, "Oh, it's a family secret. But I'd be happy to show you how to make it sometime." And just like that, I found myself in Margaret's cozy kitchen, ready to learn the coveted recipe.

Margaret began by explaining that the key to the dressing's rich flavor was the combination of tangy blue cheese and creamy buttermilk. She showed me how to crumble the blue cheese into a bowl and mash it with a fork until it was smooth and creamy. Then she slowly poured in the buttermilk, whisking continuously until the dressing reached the perfect consistency.

As she added in a splash of vinegar, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, Margaret shared stories of how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. It was a recipe that had been cherished and perfected over the years, making it truly special.

After tasting the dressing and adjusting the seasonings to my liking, Margaret handed me a pen and a piece of paper. "Now, it's your turn to write down the recipe," she said with a smile. And so, with Margaret's guidance, I carefully wrote down each ingredient and step, making sure not to miss a single detail.

From that day on, Blue Cheese Buttermilk Dressing became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family dinners, potlucks, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews from my loved ones. And each time I made the dressing, I couldn't help but think of Margaret and the wonderful memories we had shared in her kitchen.

As the years went by, I continued to perfect the recipe, adding my own twist by experimenting with different types of blue cheese and herbs. I even shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of this beloved dressing.

But no matter how many variations I tried, Margaret's original recipe remained my favorite. There was something about the way the blue cheese melded with the buttermilk, creating a creamy and tangy dressing that was simply irresistible.

As I look back on that day in Margaret's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to learn such a treasured recipe. It has become more than just a dressing for me – it is a connection to the past, a reminder of the importance of tradition and family.

And so, whenever I make Blue Cheese Buttermilk Dressing, I do so with a sense of pride and nostalgia, knowing that I am carrying on a legacy that began with a simple potluck dinner and a kind-hearted friend.

Categories

| American Recipes | Blue Cheese Recipes | Buttermilk Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Mayonnaise Recipes | Salad Dressing Recipes |

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