Quick Ranch Dressing
Easy-to-Make Ranch Dressing Recipe from USA | Ingredients and Steps
Introduction
Ranch dressing is a popular condiment that is loved by many for its creamy and tangy flavor. This quick and easy recipe allows you to make your own homemade ranch dressing in just a few minutes.
History
Ranch dressing was created in the 1950s by Steve Henson, a plumber from Alaska. He and his wife Gayle opened a dude ranch in California, where they served the dressing to guests. It quickly became popular and eventually was sold to Clorox Company, who now owns the Hidden Valley Ranch brand.
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup of mayonnaise
- 0.5 cup of sour cream
- 0.25 cup of buttermilk
- 0.5 tsp of dried parsley
- 0.5 tsp of dried dill
- 0.5 tsp of chives
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of black pepper
- 1 tsp of garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tsp of white vinegar (optional)
How to prepare
- In a small bowl, whisk together all of the ingredients, making sure to include garlic powder and vinegar.
- Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two weeks.
- Serve the dressing on chips, meat, fish, or poultry.
Variations
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
- Mix in some hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to whisk the ingredients together well to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences. You can add more or less of the herbs and spices listed in the recipe.
- For a thicker dressing, use less buttermilk. For a thinner dressing, add more buttermilk.
- Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this ranch dressing with fresh vegetables, on salads, or as a dipping sauce for chicken wings or fries.
Cooking Techniques
Whisking the ingredients together ensures a smooth and creamy consistency for the ranch dressing.
Ingredient Substitutions
Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a lighter version of the dressing.
- Fresh herbs can be used in place of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
This ranch dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the ranch dressing in a small bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
This ranch dressing pairs well with a variety of foods, including salads, chicken, vegetables, and chips.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store the ranch dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Stir well before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of this ranch dressing contains approximately 130 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of this ranch dressing contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of this ranch dressing contains approximately 12 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of this ranch dressing contains approximately 1 gram of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
This ranch dressing is a good source of vitamin A and calcium.
Alergens
This ranch dressing contains eggs and dairy.
Summary
This ranch dressing is a creamy and flavorful condiment that is perfect for dipping or drizzling on your favorite foods. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and protein, but higher in fats.
Summary
This quick ranch dressing recipe is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of ways. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of homemade ranch dressing that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind. It was a sunny afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha for our weekly tea time. As we chatted and sipped our tea, Martha suddenly excused herself and disappeared into the kitchen. Curious, I followed her and found her rummaging through her pantry, pulling out various bottles and jars.
"What are you up to, Martha?" I asked, peering over her shoulder.
"I'm going to make some homemade ranch dressing for our salad tonight," she replied with a smile. "It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."
I watched intently as Martha effortlessly combined mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, and a handful of herbs and spices in a mixing bowl. She whisked everything together until it formed a creamy and fragrant dressing. The aroma that filled the kitchen was simply divine.
As we sat down to enjoy our salad, I took a bite and was immediately blown away by the deliciousness of the ranch dressing. It was tangy, creamy, and bursting with flavor. I couldn't get enough of it.
"Martha, this ranch dressing is absolutely amazing!" I exclaimed. "Would you mind sharing the recipe with me?"
Martha laughed and nodded. "Of course, my dear. It's a simple recipe that anyone can make at home. I'll write it down for you before you leave."
And so, armed with Martha's handwritten recipe, I returned home eager to recreate the magic of her homemade ranch dressing. I gathered all the ingredients and followed her instructions to a tee. The result was just as delicious as the one Martha had made, if not better. I was thrilled to have a new recipe in my repertoire that I could share with my family and friends.
Over the years, I continued to make Martha's ranch dressing for various gatherings and potlucks. It became a staple at our family dinners, and everyone always raved about how tasty it was. I even received requests for the recipe, and I happily shared it with anyone who asked.
As time went on, I began to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twist to it. I swapped out some of the ingredients for healthier alternatives, such as Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and low-fat mayonnaise. I also played around with the herbs and spices, trying different combinations to enhance the flavor even more.
One day, while browsing through a cookbook at the local library, I stumbled upon a recipe for a quick version of ranch dressing. It caught my eye because it used ingredients that were readily available in most kitchens, making it convenient for those times when you needed a dressing in a pinch.
I decided to give it a try and was pleasantly surprised by how easy and delicious it was. The quick ranch dressing consisted of just a few simple ingredients – mayonnaise, buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and dried parsley. I whisked everything together in a bowl and let it chill in the fridge for a bit to allow the flavors to meld together.
When I served it with a fresh salad that evening, my family couldn't believe how quickly I had whipped up such a flavorful dressing. They devoured the salad and asked for seconds, all while praising the ranch dressing for its creamy texture and zesty taste.
From that day on, the quick ranch dressing became a go-to recipe in my kitchen. It was perfect for those busy weeknights when I needed a quick and delicious dressing to accompany a simple salad or vegetable dish. It also became a hit at potlucks and gatherings, with friends and family always asking for the recipe.
As I look back on my culinary journey, I am grateful for the friends and family who have shared their recipes with me over the years. Each one has added a special touch to my cooking repertoire, enriching my culinary skills and bringing joy to those who have tasted my dishes.
So, the next time you're in need of a quick and tasty dressing for your salad, give this recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. Enjoy!
Categories
| American Recipes | Black Pepper Recipes | Buttermilk Recipes | Dill Recipes | Garlic Powder Recipes | Herb And Spice Mix Recipes | Mayonnaise Recipes | Parsley Recipes | Quick And Easy Recipes | Sour Cream Recipes | Two-step Recipes | World Recipes |