Ranch Dressing

Sometimes I put some extra effort into Operation: Eat More Veggies. I find that if I put out some cut-up veggies, and a container of ranch or hummus, while I make dinner, the kids will munch on them, and also do less asking, when do we eat? Double win.

Having this “mix” in a jar in my spice drawer makes it super easy to whip up homemade ranch dressing any time. A note about garlic “powder” vs “granulated:” they can be used interchangeably, same for onion. I prefer the granules for this recipe, since they are less prone to cling to the jar or clump up. I also prefer to wait on the salt and sugar, since they tend to fall to the bottom of the jar. Add them, along with plenty of fresh-ground pepper, when you are mixing the dressing.

Adapted from The Kitchn
DIY Ranch Mix: Makes 1/2 cup

• 8 tsp dried parsley
• 4 tsp dried onion flakes
• 1 Tbsp dried dill
• 2 tsp dried chives
• 2 tsp garlic granules
• 1 tsp onion granules
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander

Combine in a half-pint jar. Store in a dry, cool place.

Ranch Dressing: Makes 1.25 cups

In a wide-mouth pint jar, eyeball:

• 1/2 cup mayo
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt

You can, of course, vary these proportions according to preference. Skip the yogurt for a thicker dip, or add more for a runnier dressing. Stir in:

• 1 1/2 Tbsp Ranch Mix (shake the jar before measuring)
• 1/2 t sugar (optional)
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• Fresh ground pepper

Taste the dressing and add more salt, pepper, and/or sugar to taste.