Avocado Ranch Dressing
Creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh avocado, this homemade ranch dressing is a delicious upgrade to the classic. Perfect for salads, dips, or drizzling over tacos and ready in under 10 minutes.
For 8 servings
3 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Combine Ingredients
- b.Scoop the flesh of one large, ripe avocado into a high-speed blender or food processor.
- c.Add the sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, fresh parsley, chives, dill, lime juice, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the blender.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Blend Until Smooth
- b.Secure the lid and blend on high for 30-60 seconds.
- c.Stop once to scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
- d.Continue blending until the dressing is completely smooth and creamy.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Adjust and Chill
- b.Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
- c.If the dressing is too thick, blend in additional buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- d.Transfer the dressing to an airtight jar or container. For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the creamiest texture, ensure your avocado is perfectly ripe (yields to gentle pressure but is not mushy).
- 2Fresh herbs are key to the vibrant flavor of this dressing. If you must use dried, use 1/3 of the amount called for.
- 3To prevent browning during storage, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the dressing before sealing the container. This minimizes air contact.
- 4Don't skip the chilling step! It really helps the garlic and herb flavors to develop and infuse the dressing.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Avocado Ranch
Add 1/2 of a seeded jalapeño or a 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the blender for a spicy kick.
Lighter VersionLighter Version
For a lower-fat option, replace the sour cream and/or mayonnaise with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt.
Herb Garden RanchHerb Garden Ranch
Incorporate other fresh herbs like cilantro or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
Vegan Avocado RanchVegan Avocado Ranch
Use vegan mayonnaise, vegan sour cream, and a plant-based milk mixed with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to create a delicious dairy-free version.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Heart-Healthy Fats
Avocados are a primary source of monounsaturated fats, which are known to help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and support overall cardiovascular health.
Gut-Friendly Probiotics
The use of buttermilk and sour cream introduces beneficial probiotics into the dressing, which can aid digestion and promote a healthy gut microbiome.
Packed with Fresh Herbs
Fresh parsley, chives, and dill are not just for flavor; they also provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to overall wellness.
Frequently asked questions
A 1/4 cup serving contains approximately 175 calories. This can vary depending on the specific brands of mayonnaise and sour cream used.