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Discover a wholesome take on ranch dressing made with protein-rich Greek yogurt. This creamy homemade version delivers the classic ranch taste you love while providing better nutrition. Perfect for everything from fresh salads to veggie platters.
This recipe emerged from countless test kitchen experiments to create a healthier ranch that doesn't compromise on flavor or texture.
Key Ingredients
- Greek yogurt (2 cups): Use whole milk yogurt for richest results. Look for thick, strained varieties.
- Fresh garlic (3 cloves): Choose plump, firm cloves with tight skins.
- Fresh dill (2 tablespoons): Look for bright green, fragrant sprigs.
- Fresh chives (2 tablespoons): Select crisp, green stalks.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): Flat-leaf variety preferred for best flavor.
- Buttermilk (¼ cup): Full-fat cultured buttermilk adds authentic tang.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Unfiltered provides best flavor.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Check for fresh aroma.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Should be finely powdered.
- Sea salt (1 teaspoon): Fine grain dissolves easily.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Freshly ground recommended.
Preparation Method
- Initial Setup
- Start with room temperature yogurt and drain any liquid.
- Fresh Herbs
- Finely chop herbs just before mixing to preserve flavors.
- Garlic Prep
- Create garlic paste using a microplane for smooth texture.
- Seasoning
- Add dry ingredients gradually while whisking.
- Liquid Balance
- Slowly incorporate buttermilk to achieve desired consistency.
- Rest Period
- Let flavors develop for 30 minutes before final adjustments.
- Final Mix
- Whisk until perfectly smooth.
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The resting period is crucial for allowing flavors to fully develop and meld together.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dressing enhances fresh garden salads, raw vegetable platters, and sandwiches. Mix with hot sauce for a healthier buffalo dip or use as a flavorful base for potato salad. The creamy texture and balanced seasoning complement any fresh vegetables.
Storage Guidelines
Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Do not freeze. Let stand briefly at room temperature before serving.
Careful attention to ingredients and technique results in a restaurant-quality ranch dressing that happens to be nutritious.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I store this dressing?
- Pop it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 7 days.
- → Is non-fat Greek yogurt okay to use?
- You can use it, but yogurt with 5% fat gives the richest taste and texture.
- → How do I adjust the thickness?
- Leave out the water for a thicker dip, or splash in 1-3 tablespoons of water or milk to make it thinner.
- → Can fresh herbs replace dried ones?
- Definitely! Just double the amount since fresh herbs are milder.
- → Is this a healthier option than regular ranch?
- Yes, it has less fat and calories but is packed with protein and calcium, making it a better choice.