Homemade Light Ranch Dressing

Homemade Light Ranch Dressing is a creamy, tangy, and flavorful dressing made with fewer calories and less fat than traditional ranch. It’s the perfect guilt-free way to enhance salads, use as a dip for veggies, or drizzle over your favorite wraps and sandwiches. This lighter version keeps all the taste you love with a healthier twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick, simple, and made from pantry and fridge staples. It skips the preservatives and heaviness of store-bought ranch, yet still delivers a rich, herby flavor. It’s also customizable—adjust the herbs and seasoning to suit your taste. Whether you’re counting calories or just prefer homemade condiments, this dressing hits the spot.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Plain non-fat Greek yogurt
• Low-fat buttermilk (or regular if preferred)
• Light mayonnaise
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried dill
• Dried parsley
• Dried chives
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon juice or white vinegar

directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, buttermilk, and light mayonnaise. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add garlic powder, onion powder, dill, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in lemon juice or vinegar to add tang and thin the consistency slightly.
4. Whisk everything together until well blended.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more herbs, lemon juice, or salt to your liking.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 1 cup (8 servings)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (recommended)
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor (triple the amount).
• Substitute sour cream for Greek yogurt for a slightly richer taste.
• Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne for a spicy version.
• Use dairy-free yogurt and milk to make it vegan-friendly.
• Add mashed avocado for a creamy avocado ranch twist.

storage/reheating

Store the dressing in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Always give it a quick stir before using, as natural separation may occur.
This dressing is not suitable for reheating and should be served cold.

FAQs

Is this ranch dressing really healthier than store-bought?

Yes, it uses Greek yogurt and light mayo instead of heavy creams or oils, lowering the fat and calorie content significantly.

Can I make this dressing thicker?

Yes, use less buttermilk or add more yogurt for a thicker consistency suitable for dipping.

Is buttermilk necessary?

It adds tang and creaminess, but you can use regular low-fat milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely. Fresh herbs offer great flavor; just use three times the amount of dried herbs.

Does this dressing taste like classic ranch?

Yes, it delivers that familiar ranch flavor with a lighter, fresher feel.

How do I make it vegan?

Use plant-based yogurt, vegan mayo, and unsweetened non-dairy milk like almond or soy.

Can I freeze homemade ranch?

Freezing is not recommended, as it may cause the texture to break down.

How long does this dressing last?

It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 1 week in an airtight container.

What can I use this dressing for besides salad?

Try it as a dip for veggies, wings, fries, or as a spread in sandwiches and wraps.

Can I use it immediately after mixing?

You can, but chilling it for 30 minutes deepens the flavor and improves the texture.

Conclusion

Homemade Light Ranch Dressing is a tasty, healthier alternative to store-bought dressings that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. With simple ingredients and quick prep, it’s a go-to staple that elevates salads, snacks, and meals alike. Make a batch and enjoy ranch dressing the homemade, lighter way.

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