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Easy 4-Ingredient Homemade Buttermilk Ranch Dressing Recipe for Perfect Salads

homemade buttermilk ranch dressing - featured image

A quick and fuss-free ranch dressing made with just four simple ingredients, perfect for salads, dips, and more. Creamy, tangy, and fresh, this homemade dressing elevates any dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (about 120 ml), preferably a good-quality brand like Hellmann’s or Dukes
  • ½ cup buttermilk (120 ml), the star ingredient giving ranch its classic tang
  • 2 tablespoons dried ranch seasoning mix (or homemade blend of garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, parsley, and chives)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • Optional: pinch of salt or black pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives

Instructions

  1. Measure Ingredients: Gather ½ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup buttermilk, 2 tablespoons dried ranch seasoning, and 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.
  2. Combine Base Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and buttermilk until smooth, about 30 seconds.
  3. Add Seasoning: Sprinkle in dried ranch seasoning mix and whisk to evenly distribute and thicken slightly.
  4. Brighten with Lemon: Add fresh lemon juice and whisk thoroughly to incorporate.
  5. Taste and Adjust: Taste the dressing and add a pinch of salt or black pepper if needed. If too thick, stir in a splash more buttermilk to reach desired consistency.
  6. Chill: Transfer dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor. Chill dressing for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. For dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk plus 1 teaspoon lemon juice and use vegan mayo. Adjust thickness by adding more or less buttermilk. Fresh herbs can be added after chilling for extra flavor and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: ranch dressing, homemade ranch, buttermilk ranch, easy dressing, salad dressing, 4-ingredient ranch, creamy dressing, ranch dip