Ranch is a must-have for many families, but most store-bought versions are loaded with additives! This homemade Hidden Valley Ranch dressing recipe has all the flavor you know and love, but has extra protein thanks to a few swaps! Don't worry - it only requires 3 simple ingredients. Keep it in the fridge at all times for chicken nuggets, French fries, and more!
Like many families, my crew loves Ranch dressing and likes to have it in the fridge at all times! Although we buy the bottled stuff sometimes, I like to make it myself to add extra protein to help fill us up. As a Dietitian, I know extra protein and fats can help keep us full for longer!
This homemade ranch dressing is still super easy to make and tastes just like the real thing, but is made using simple ingredients at home. Serve it with veggies or as a dip for your kids' favorite chicken fingers...It's a win-win!
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Ingredients
- Plain yogurt: Greek yogurt is super rich and creamy, and is also a good source of protein.
- Mayonnaise: Nothing really tastes like mayo, which is rich, creamy, and tangy in the best way possible. But you can use less and still have plenty of tanginess!
- Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing seasoning mix: You can make your own homemade ranch seasoning mix with lots of dried herbs, but the premade Hidden Valley ranch packets are so easy! Plus, they taste just like the real deal from the grocery store, which makes it an easier swap for picky palates.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to Make Healthier Ranch Dip
Combine and chill: Combine all ingredients and store in the refrigerator.
Hint: Let it rest! Dry herbs take time to rehydrate, and you'll have a much stronger flavor after an hour or two (or longer).
Substitutions
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, including the Ranch packets!
Dairy-free: Choose a neutral-tasting non-dairy yogurt or sour cream. You'll also want to find a store-bought Ranch packet made without dry buttermilk powder!
Variations
Add fresh herbs: If you happen to have some fresh chives or parsley available, they'll give this dip a nice pop of freshness.
Add lemon juice: A little acidity can really bring out the flavor in creamy dressings. Add a tablespoon of lemon juice or even a little apple cider vinegar.
Thin it out: Prefer a thinner dressing? Add some whole milk or real buttermilk to make it just the right consistency..
Try a different packet: There are lots of different types of dry ranch seasoning mix available at stores. Some are spicy, some taste like pickles, etc. Feel free to use any store-bought packet you prefer. If you can find a low-sodium option, that would be great, too!
Make your own ranch seasoning mixture: Most ranch packets contain monosodium glutamate, anti-caking agents, and preservatives. If you want to avoid those, make your own ranch spice blend instead!
Nutrition
Unlike store-bought ranch dressing, this version relies on plain Greek yogurt and a little mayo for a creamy, rich flavor. It's a great option for salads, dipping chicken strips, and more. Plus, the Greek yogurt adds a little extra protein, which will help you stay full for longer!
Storage
Store any leftover DIY ranch dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The longer it sits, the better it will taste, too!
Top tip
Add fresh ingredients when possible. Adding a little freshly minced garlic or fresh herbs will transform the flavor of your dressing and make it taste like restaurant ranch!
FAQ
Who doesn't love store-bought ranch mix? It's basically concentrated ranch flavor that can make anything taste better! To make your own healthier homemade ranch at home, replace the buttermilk with high-protein Greek yogurt and reduce the amount of mayonnaise. It's still super creamy and flavorful!
If you're making homemade ranch dressing and it's thick like a dip, thin it out! You can do this with regular milk, a neutral-tasting plant-based alternative, or buttermilk. Just add a little, stir well, and if you want it thinner, add more.
Since you're using a dry mix, this homemade ranch dip lasts as long as your dairy products do! I like to keep it for 2 weeks at most, as after that, it doesn't taste quite as fresh.
Related
Looking for more healthy recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this homemade Hidden Valley ranch salad dressing recipe:
Healthy Homemade Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing
Ingredients
- ¾ cup Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Hidden Valley ranch seasoning or 1-2 packets
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients and store the dip in the refrigerator.
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