Why You’ll Love Healthy Ranch Dressing Recipe
This ranch dressing is creamy, herb-filled, and refreshingly tangy without the heaviness of traditional store-bought dressings. It’s lighter, higher in protein thanks to Greek yogurt, and totally customizable to your taste. Plus, it’s quick to make with pantry staples.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried dill
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried chives (optional)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon lemon juice (juice of half a lemon)
Directions
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Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
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Whisk until smooth and combined.
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Chill in the refrigerator to let the flavors blend before serving (optional).
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Store leftovers in the fridge.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 servings (each serving = 2 tablespoons)
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
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Extra herby: Add fresh chopped dill, parsley, or chives instead of dried.
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Lemon zest: Add a little lemon zest for extra citrus brightness.
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Garlic boost: Swap garlic powder for a small clove of fresh minced garlic.
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Spicy kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a little heat.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
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Before serving: If separation occurs during storage, simply stir or whisk again.
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Freezing: Not recommended, as the yogurt can separate when thawed.
FAQs
What makes this ranch “healthy”?
This version uses nonfat Greek yogurt instead of high-fat mayonnaise or sour cream, reducing calories and adding protein while still keeping a creamy texture.
Can I use full-fat yogurt instead of nonfat?
Yes! Full-fat or 2% yogurt works fine and will make the dressing a bit richer.
How long does this ranch dressing last in the fridge?
It stays good for up to about 5 days when stored in a sealed container.
Can I thin the dressing if it’s too thick?
Yes, add a splash of water or lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency.
Is this dressing vegan?
No, this version uses yogurt. To make it vegan, substitute a plant-based yogurt alternative.
What can I serve this ranch with?
It’s great on green salads, as a dip for fresh vegetables, or drizzled over grilled chicken or roasted potatoes.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely—fresh herbs can boost flavor and freshness.
Can I add garlic cloves instead of powder?
Yes, minced fresh garlic can be more flavorful but use sparingly as it’s stronger than powder.
Is this dairy-free?
Not in this version. For dairy-free, choose a non-dairy plain yogurt substitute.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales easily for larger batches.
Conclusion
This Healthy Ranch Dressing is a quick, delicious alternative to store-bought versions. With minimal ingredients and a creaminess that rivals the original, it’s an easy way to make your meals healthier and tastier. Whether you’re dipping veggies, dressing a salad, or customizing it with fresh herbs, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
