Ranch Salad Dressing
Vegetarian Ranch Salad Dressing Recipe from USA | Ingredients: Milk, Silken Tofu, Salad Dressing
Introduction
Ranch salad dressing is a classic and versatile dressing that can be used on salads, as a dip, or as a marinade. It has a creamy and tangy flavor that pairs well with a variety of ingredients.
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 became so popular that they started selling it commercially, and it quickly became a staple in American households.
Ingredients
- 1.25 cups of soy or dairy milk
- 1 (12 oz (340 g)) package of silken tofu
- 1 (1 oz (28 g)) package of ranch salad dressing mix packet
How to prepare
- In a blender container, combine the soymilk, silken tofu, and dressing mix. Blend until well blended, making sure to scrape down the sides if necessary.
- Transfer the dressing into a jar and refrigerate for storage.
- Yield: 2.5 cups (10 servings). Serving size: 0.25 cup. Per serving: 48 calories, 1.5 g total fat (0 g saturated fat), 3 g protein (3 g soy protein), 5 g carbohydrates, 249 mg sodium, 0 mg cholesterol, 0 g dietary fiber.
Variations
- Add fresh herbs such as dill or parsley for extra flavor.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of tofu for a creamier dressing.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to blend the ingredients well to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Adjust the amount of dressing mix to suit your taste preferences.
- Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
This ranch salad dressing can be served on salads, as a dip for vegetables, or as a marinade for meats.
Cooking Techniques
Blending the ingredients together in a blender ensures a smooth and creamy consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use dairy milk instead of soy milk if preferred.
- Use regular tofu instead of silken tofu for a thicker dressing.
Make Ahead Tips
This ranch salad dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the ranch salad dressing in a small jar or bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
Pairing Recommendations
This ranch salad dressing pairs well with fresh vegetables, grilled chicken, or as a dressing for pasta salad.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store the ranch salad dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of this ranch salad dressing contains 48 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of this ranch salad dressing contains 5 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of this ranch salad dressing contains 1.5 grams of total fat, with 0 grams of saturated fat.
Proteins
Each serving of this ranch salad dressing contains 3 grams of protein, including 3 grams of soy protein.
Vitamins and minerals
This ranch salad dressing is a good source of calcium and iron.
Alergens
This ranch salad dressing contains soy.
Summary
This ranch salad dressing is low in calories and fat, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought dressings.
Summary
This homemade ranch salad dressing is easy to make and healthier than store-bought versions. With a creamy and tangy flavor, it can be used in a variety of ways to enhance your favorite dishes.
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a warm summer day, the kind where the sun hangs high in the sky and the air is filled with the sweet scent of flowers blooming. I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who was known for her delicious homemade salads. As we sat at her kitchen table, catching up on life, she brought out a bowl of salad that was unlike any I had ever tasted before.
I took a bite and was instantly transported to a world of flavor. The crisp lettuce, the juicy tomatoes, the crunchy cucumbers – it was all so fresh and vibrant. But what really set this salad apart was the dressing. It was creamy and tangy, with just the perfect balance of herbs and spices. I couldn't help but ask Margaret for the recipe.
She smiled and told me that it was a family recipe, passed down from her grandmother to her mother and now to her. She graciously wrote it down for me on a scrap of paper, and I tucked it away in my purse, knowing that this dressing would become a staple in my own kitchen.
When I got home, I couldn't wait to try out the recipe for myself. I gathered all the ingredients – mayonnaise, buttermilk, herbs, and spices – and got to work. As I whisked everything together, the kitchen filled with the intoxicating aroma of fresh herbs and creamy buttermilk.
I poured the dressing over a simple salad of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, and took a bite. It was just as delicious as I remembered, if not more so. The tanginess of the buttermilk paired perfectly with the herbs and spices, creating a dressing that was both comforting and refreshing.
From that day on, Ranch Salad Dressing became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on a quiet evening at home. Each time I made it, I thought of Margaret and the special bond we shared over our love of good food and shared recipes.
Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding a bit more garlic here, a touch more dill there. But the heart of the recipe remains the same – simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly magical.
As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe for Ranch Salad Dressing, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and connections that food has brought into my life. Each bite of this dressing is a reminder of the love and memories that have been shared around my kitchen table, and I am grateful for each and every one.
So the next time you find yourself in need of a delicious salad dressing, I urge you to give this recipe a try. Whip up a batch, pour it over your favorite veggies, and savor the taste of love and friendship that it brings. I promise, you won't be disappointed.
Categories
| American Recipes | Salad Dressing Recipes | Silken Tofu Recipes | Soy Milk Recipes | Soy Recipes | Vegetarian Recipes |