How to make Light Ranch Dressing

See how easy it is to make a light version of creamy ranch dressing with a store bought mix. And for an added bonus, choose between two different varieties, Light Ranch or Light Buttermilk Ranch Dressing.

The Iconic Ranch Dressing

I don’t think its a secret that ranch dressing is one of America’s favorite ways to dress up a salad. However, due to the high fat content it is not easy to incorporate into a lower fat diet. With this recipe, you will be able to enjoy your salad topped with this creamy herb dressing without the guilt. And because this recipe uses that store bought packet that we have all come to know and love, this dressing is a snap to make. By making a few little tweaks, you can turn the iconic dressing mix into a light and healthier version.

Ranch Seasoning

Of course, I’m sure you know that I am referring to this brand that you see in every store. In fact, you probably have a packet of this seasoning mix sitting in a kitchen drawer or cupboard.

However, I am going to share a secret with you. This seasoning mix can be purchased at a fraction of the cost of those little packets. By purchasing a large container at warehouse stores like Costco, you can cut costs by two-thirds. I purchased a 20 ounce container that looks like the one below for $7.99. As a package contains one ounce of seasoning, it would take twenty packets to purchase the same amount of seasoning. So the next time you are shopping at your favorite warehouse store look for a bottle like this.

How to Make Light Ranch Dressing

First of all, gather up your ingredients. They are simple. All that is needed to make a light version of delicious ranch dressing are:

• 2% Milk
• Mayonnaise
• Hidden Valley Seasoning
• Creme Fraiche or Sour Cream (optional)
• Fresh Chives

By mixing the ingredients in a jar or whisking them up in a small bowl, you will be able to enjoy fresh creamy ranch dressing in just minutes.

Secondly, disregard the package directions. There is a new sheriff in town, and new rules. Really all that is taking place here is that the fat is being reduced by 1/2. But the milk is being increased as well as the seasoning. Typically, 3 tablespoons of seasoning would make two cups of dressing. But in this recipe, 3 tablespoons of seasoning will produce slightly over one cup of dressing.

Why Creme Fraiche

The creme fraiche is added solely for texture. Because I prefer my dressing a little thicker, I added a tablespoon of creme fraiche. Additionally, the reason I chose creme fraiche over sour cream was strictly based on taste. Creme Fraiche has a sweeter finish than sour cream. And because I don’t want my ranch to taste like buttermilk ranch, I thicken it with the creme fraiche. Here is my suggestion, mix up the dressing omitting the creme fraiche. If you are happy with the texture and thickness, omit adding the creme fraiche. Also, if you wish to thicken the dressing but don’t want to invest in creme fraiche by all means substitute with your favorite sour cream.

Chives

As fresh chives can always be found in my garden, I am always looking for opportunities to use them. Did you know that the more you cut your herbs, the more it encourages new growth? And this helps to keep your plants healthy as well. I add fresh chives to bring extra flavor to my dressing. But if you don’t have access to them, they can be substituted for dried chives or omitted all together.

During our days of Covid lockdown many of us have taken up gardening. If you have started an herb garden, make use of those great flavor boosters while they are fresh. But don’t forget, the more you cut the more new growth is encouraged. So trim those herbs often. You may also like to consider drying your own herbs. When the weather has changed and the plants turn dormant, you will have your own fresh stash of dried herbs from your garden. Check out how easy it is to dry your own chives. (Coming Soon)!

Two recipes in one!

As I have said, I have included two versions of this recipe, Light Regular Ranch Dressing or Light Buttermilk Ranch Dressing. In order to view both recipes, make sure to scroll all the way down.

1 Tablespoon of Light Ranch Dressing is 1 WW Smart Point or 36 Calories.

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1 Tablespoon of Light Buttermilk Ranch Dressing is 1 WW Smart Point or 30 Calories.

Light Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

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Buon Appetito!