Name: Low-fat Buttermilk Ranch Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 13
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup fat free sour cream; ¾ cup fat free Greek yogurt; ⅓ cup Hellman's light mayonnaise; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tbsp fresh chives; 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley; 1 tsp salt; freshly ground pepper; 1-2 tbsp white balsamic vinegar; 2 cups 1% low fat buttermilk

Buttermilk Ranch Dressing is a staple in most kitchens. This lightened up version uses low-fat dairy products and herbs to create a tangy, creamy and flavorful dressing without all the calories. Perfect to drizzle over your favorite salads or to use as a dip for veggies. You'll never want to go back to store-bought again!

Photos of Low-fat Buttermilk Ranch Dressing Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this light buttermilk ranch dressing recipe are easily found in your pantry or fridge. However, you might need to head to the supermarket for fat-free Greek yogurt and white balsamic vinegar, which are not as commonly stocked items in most households. Hellman's light mayonnaise is specified for a reason - it has a great taste with fewer calories, but you can substitute with another brand if required.

Ingredients for Low-Fat Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Fat free sour cream: This forms the base of the dressing, giving it a creamy texture with reduced fat.

Fat free Greek yogurt: Adds extra creaminess and protein to the dressing.

Hellman's light mayonnaise: Gives the dressing its classic tangy flavor.

Garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor of the dressing.

Onion powder: Adds a subtle flavor that balances the tanginess.

Fresh chives: Gives the dressing a mild onion-like flavor.

Fresh parsley: Add freshness and vibrant color.

Salt: Enhances all other flavors.

Freshly ground pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.

White balsamic vinegar: Gives the dressing its tanginess and brightness.

1% low fat buttermilk: Thins out the dressing, while adding a tangy flavor.

One reader, Bayard Corona says:

This low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing recipe is a game-changer! It's creamy, flavorful, and guilt-free. The combination of sour cream, yogurt, and buttermilk creates a rich texture without the extra fat. The fresh herbs and spices add a burst of flavor. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a healthier dressing option.

Bayard Corona

Mastering the Art of Homemade Ranch Dressing

How to combine the ingredients: Mix together the sour cream, yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, chives, salt, and cracked pepper in a small bowl or large measuring cup until well combined.

How to adjust the seasonings: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more balsamic vinegar if desired. Keep in mind that the flavors will develop and become bolder over time.

How To Make Low-fat Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

If you want a salad dressing that will not hurt your waistline, you might want to try this low-fat ranch dressing made with buttermilk. Try it now!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

¾cupfat free sour cream
¾cupfat free Greek yogurt
⅓cupHellman’s light mayonnaise
1tspgarlic powder
1tsponion powder
1tbspfresh chives,chopped
1tbspfresh parsley,chopped
1tspsalt
freshly ground pepper
1-2tbspwhite balsamic vinegar
2cups1% low fat buttermilk

Instructions

In a small bowl or large measuring cup, combine the sour cream, yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic, powder, onion powder, parsley, chives, salt, and cracked pepper. Mix well.
Stir in the white balsamic vinegar; then buttermilk.
Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding another tablespoon of balsamic vinegar if desired. The flavors will become bolder over time.

Nutrition

Calories: 57.95kcal
Fat: 2.39g
Saturated Fat: 0.50g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.56g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.17g
Carbohydrates: 5.59g
Fiber: 0.12g
Sugar: 2.87g
Protein: 3.56g
Cholesterol: 3.56mg
Sodium: 177.59mg
Calcium: 81.98mg
Potassium: 113.49mg
Iron: 0.10mg
Vitamin A: 16.93µg
Vitamin C: 0.95mg

The Secret to Achieving the Perfect Consistency in Your Ranch Dressing

When making your low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing, it's important to remember that the flavors will intensify as the dressing sits. If you're preparing this in advance, you might want to start with less seasoning than you think you'll need. You can always add more later, but it's impossible to take it out once it's mixed in. Also, using fresh herbs like chives and parsley can make a big difference in the overall flavor profile of the dressing. They provide a fresh, vibrant taste that dried herbs simply can't match.

Streamline Your Salad Prep with This Quick and Easy Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal dishes for easy cleanup.

Efficient tools: Use kitchen gadgets like food processors and immersion blenders to speed up prep work.

Batch cooking: Make larger quantities and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals.

Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to minimize time spent searching for ingredients and utensils.

Substitute Ingredients For Low-fat Buttermilk Ranch Dressing Recipe

fat free sour cream - Substitute with plain non-fat Greek yogurt: Non-fat Greek yogurt has a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a suitable replacement for sour cream in this recipe.
fat free greek yogurt - Substitute with low-fat cottage cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese can provide a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a suitable replacement for Greek yogurt in this recipe.
hellman's light mayonnaise - Substitute with reduced-fat mayonnaise: Reduced-fat mayonnaise can be used as a lighter alternative to the light mayonnaise, maintaining the creamy texture and flavor while reducing the fat content.
fresh chives - Substitute with green onions (scallions): Green onions can provide a similar mild onion flavor and a pop of color, making them a suitable substitute for chives in this recipe.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro can add a vibrant, herbaceous flavor similar to parsley, providing a suitable alternative in this recipe.
1% low fat buttermilk - Substitute with 1% milk with lemon juice: Combining 1% milk with a small amount of lemon juice can mimic the tangy flavor and acidity of buttermilk, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.

Elevate Your Salads with This Creamy Dressing

Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing arrangement. Pay attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that it showcases the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Utilize the technique of artistic drizzling to add a touch of finesse to the presentation. This can be achieved by skillfully drizzling the low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing in a decorative pattern, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.
Garnish with precision: Carefully garnish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives and parsley, adding a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the overall presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the dish to stand out and be the focal point. This approach creates a sense of balance and sophistication in the presentation.
Incorporate complementary textures: Introduce complementary textures, such as a delicate sprinkle of cracked pepper or a light dusting of garlic powder around the dish, adding both visual interest and a subtle depth of flavor.
Emphasize the vessel: Select a refined and elegant vessel to serve the low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing, such as a pristine white porcelain ramekin or a sleek, modern sauceboat, elevating the overall dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Homemade Salad Dressings

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for chopping, pureeing, mixing, and blending ingredients. It's great for making dressings, sauces, and dips.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the ingredients and ensuring they are well incorporated. It's used for mixing the various components of the low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing recipe.

Maximizing Shelf Life: Storing and Freezing Homemade Salad Dressings

Store the ranch dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The flavors will meld and intensify over time, so it's best to make it ahead of time if possible.
If you want to freeze the dressing, pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw, place the desired number of cubes in a bowl in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, whisk the dressing until smooth and creamy.
If the dressing seems too thick after thawing, you can thin it out with a little buttermilk or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
Always give the dressing a good stir before using, as some separation may occur during storage.
If you notice any off smells or mold growth, discard the dressing immediately.

Surprising Origins of the Classic Ranch Dressing

Buttermilk ranch dressing is a versatile condiment that can be used as a dip, salad dressing, or marinade. It is a healthier alternative to traditional ranch dressing, as it uses low-fat dairy products and light mayonnaise. This homemade version allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences. Plus, the addition of fresh herbs like chives and parsley adds a burst of flavor. Making your own low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing is a simple way to enjoy a classic condiment while keeping an eye on your fat intake.

Budget-Friendly Homemade Salad Dressings You'll Love

The low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With affordable ingredients like fat-free sour cream, Greek yogurt, and light mayonnaise, it offers a healthy and budget-friendly option. The use of fresh herbs and white balsamic vinegar adds a touch of sophistication without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its balance of cost and quality.

Is Low-Fat Buttermilk Ranch Dressing a Healthy Choice?

This low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional ranch dressings. By using fat-free sour cream, Greek yogurt, and light mayonnaise, the recipe significantly reduces the amount of saturated fat and calories. The inclusion of fresh herbs like chives and parsley adds a burst of flavor and nutrients. The buttermilk provides a tangy taste while keeping the dressing light and refreshing.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Consider reducing the amount of salt to lower the sodium content. You can always adjust the seasoning to taste later.
Experiment with using non-fat Greek yogurt instead of fat-free sour cream to increase the protein content and further reduce the fat.
Add more fresh herbs or even finely chopped vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to boost the nutritional value and add more texture to the dressing.
If you're looking to cut back on dairy, you could try substituting a portion of the buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a lighter, plant-based option.

Why Our Editor Can't Get Enough of This Low-Fat Ranch Dressing

This low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing recipe is a healthier alternative to the traditional version without compromising on flavor. The combination of fat-free sour cream, Greek yogurt, and light mayonnaise creates a creamy base, while the addition of garlic, onion powder, fresh herbs, and white balsamic vinegar adds depth and tanginess. The use of 1% low-fat buttermilk further reduces the fat content without sacrificing the classic buttermilk ranch flavor. This dressing is versatile and can be used as a dip, salad dressing, or condiment, making it a great addition to any meal.

Enhance Your Low-fat Buttermilk Ranch Dressing Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Zucchini and Squash: Try grilling some zucchini and squash to serve alongside the low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing. The smoky flavor of the grilled vegetables will pair perfectly with the creamy dressing.

Baked Chicken Tenders: Serve the low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing with some baked chicken tenders for a healthier take on a classic appetizer. The tangy dressing will add a burst of flavor to the tender chicken.

Fruit Kabobs: For a refreshing and colorful side dish, create some fruit kabobs to enjoy with the low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing. The sweetness of the fruit will complement the creamy dressing beautifully.

Explore These Delightful Variations on Traditional Ranch Dressing

Grilled Vegetable Salad: This recipe is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy a variety of grilled vegetables in a refreshing salad. It's perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This recipe features succulent salmon fillets coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze. It's a quick and easy dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This recipe combines the tropical flavors of mango and coconut with the health benefits of chia seeds. It's a creamy and satisfying dessert that's also great for breakfast.

Perfect Pairings: Entrées and Desserts to Complement Your Low-Fat Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a zesty lemon and herb mixture before grilling to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a filling with ground turkey, quinoa, and a variety of colorful vegetables. Stuff the peppers and bake until tender. Top with a sprinkle of cheese for a satisfying and nutritious dish.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Why trust this Low-fat Buttermilk Ranch Dressing Recipe:

This recipe offers a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional ranch dressing, using fat-free sour cream, Greek yogurt, and light mayonnaise to reduce the fat content without sacrificing flavor. The addition of fresh chives and parsley provides a burst of freshness, while the white balsamic vinegar adds a tangy kick. With the creamy texture and bold flavors, this low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing is a perfect accompaniment to salads, veggies, or as a dip. Trust in the combination of quality ingredients and expertly balanced flavors to elevate your dining experience.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing recipe in the Healthy Eating forum. Let's discuss how it compares to regular ranch dressing in terms of taste and texture!

FAQ:

How long will the low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing last in the refrigerator?

The low-fat buttermilk ranch dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week in an airtight container.

Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of light mayonnaise?

Yes, you can use regular mayonnaise instead of light mayonnaise, but it will increase the fat content of the dressing.

Can I substitute the white balsamic vinegar with another type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute the white balsamic vinegar with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs, but the flavor may be slightly different. Use 1/3 of the amount of dried herbs as the recipe calls for fresh.

Is there a way to make this dressing vegan?

Yes, you can make this dressing vegan by using dairy-free alternatives such as vegan sour cream, vegan yogurt, and vegan mayonnaise.