Light Ranch Dressing

Light Ranch Dressing Recipe - Made with Parsley, Garlic, and White Wine Vinegar from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Light Ranch Dressing is a popular and versatile dressing that can be used on salads, as a dip for vegetables, or as a sauce for sandwiches and wraps. This recipe is a healthier version of the classic ranch dressing, with less fat and calories but still full of flavor.

History

Ranch dressing was created in the 1950s by Steve Henson, a plumber from Alaska, who later opened a dude ranch in California. The dressing became popular among guests at the ranch, and eventually, Henson started selling it commercially. Over the years, ranch dressing has become one of the most popular salad dressings in the United States.

Ingredients

1 tbsp finely chopped parsley or 1 tsp dried flakes
2 cloves garlic, minced
0.75 tsp onion powder
0.5 tsp dried basil, crushed
0.25 tsp celery seed
0.25 tsp pepper
0.25 tsp white wine vinegar
0.13 tsp salt

How to prepare

Combine the ingredients and refrigerate.

Variations

Add a tablespoon of buttermilk for a tangier flavor.
Mix in a teaspoon of lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
Stir in a tablespoon of chopped chives for added freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For a creamier dressing, you can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add more garlic, herbs, or spices to customize the flavor of the dressing.

- Make sure to refrigerate the dressing for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Light Ranch Dressing can be served on salads, as a dip for vegetables, or as a sauce for sandwiches and wraps. It pairs well with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots.

Cooking Techniques

Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl until well combined. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use dried herbs instead of fresh for a longer shelf life.

- Substitute white wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.

- Use low-fat Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of regular for a lighter dressing.

Make Ahead Tips

Light Ranch Dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Light Ranch Dressing in a small bowl or jar with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Light Ranch Dressing pairs well with a variety of dishes, including salads, grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and sandwiches.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Light Ranch Dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before serving. Do not freeze.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Light Ranch Dressing contains approximately 15 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Light Ranch Dressing contains approximately 1 gram of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Light Ranch Dressing contains approximately 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Light Ranch Dressing contains approximately 0 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Light Ranch Dressing is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (yogurt or sour cream) and may contain gluten if using store-bought ingredients.

Summary

Light Ranch Dressing is a low-calorie, low-fat dressing that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a healthier alternative to traditional ranch dressing.

Summary

Light Ranch Dressing is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional ranch dressing. With its creamy texture and flavorful herbs and spices, it is the perfect addition to salads, vegetables, and sandwiches. Enjoy this light and refreshing dressing on all your favorite dishes!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Mabel's farm. As we sat on the porch sipping ice-cold lemonade, Mabel mentioned that she had just whipped up a batch of her famous Light Ranch Dressing.

I watched in awe as she mixed together a few simple ingredients - buttermilk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and parsley. The result was a creamy, tangy dressing that was perfect for drizzling over salads or dipping vegetables into.

I begged Mabel to share the recipe with me, and she obliged with a smile. She explained that she had learned to make the dressing from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was thrilled to have a new addition to my repertoire of recipes, and I couldn't wait to try it out for myself.

When I got home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work. As I mixed everything together and tasted the final product, I knew I had found a new favorite. The Light Ranch Dressing was light and refreshing, with just the right balance of flavors. It was the perfect accompaniment to a crisp green salad or a plate of crunchy vegetables.

Over the years, I have made this dressing countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my tastes. Sometimes I add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bit of brightness, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat. No matter how I make it, the dressing always turns out delicious.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. It has become a staple at family gatherings and potluck dinners, always disappearing quickly as people clamor for seconds.

One day, as I was making a batch of Light Ranch Dressing for a family barbecue, my granddaughter came into the kitchen and asked what I was making. I explained the recipe to her, showing her how to measure out the ingredients and mix everything together.

She watched intently, her eyes wide with curiosity. When I was finished, she asked if she could taste the dressing. I handed her a spoonful, and her face lit up with a smile.

"It's so good, Grandma!" she exclaimed. "Can you teach me how to make it too?"

I smiled at her eagerness and agreed to show her the ropes. As we worked together, I shared with her the story of how I had learned the recipe from Mabel, and how it had become a beloved family favorite over the years.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, my granddaughter proudly served the Light Ranch Dressing she had helped make. The whole family oohed and aahed over its deliciousness, and my heart swelled with pride.

In that moment, I realized the power of passing down recipes through the generations. Just as Mabel had shared her recipe with me, I had now passed it on to my granddaughter. And I knew that she would continue the tradition, sharing the recipe with her own loved ones in the years to come.

As the sun set on another beautiful day, I felt grateful for the simple pleasures of good food and cherished memories. And I knew that the recipe for Light Ranch Dressing would always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy of cooking and sharing with those I love.