Avocado Lime Ranch Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Avocado Lime Ranch Dressing is a deliciously creamy dressing that combines the goodness of avocado with the tang of lime and the herbs and spices that make ranch dressing so irresistible. It’s fresh, flavorful, and versatile—perfect for salads, as a dip, or drizzled over tacos. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be adjusted to suit your desired thickness with just a little more buttermilk. This homemade dressing is far healthier than store-bought versions and packed with nutritious ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 large ripe avocado
• 1 cup buttermilk (more to reach the desired consistency)
• ¼ cup cilantro
• ¼ cup parsley
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.
2. Add the buttermilk, cilantro, parsley, fresh dill, lime juice, garlic, onion powder, chili powder, and salt to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. If the dressing is too thick, add more buttermilk, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, lime juice, or chili powder if necessary.
6. Pour the dressing into a jar or bottle and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 (depending on how much dressing you use per serving)
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

1. Spicy version: Add a small amount of diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat.
2. Vegan option: Use a non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk) instead of buttermilk and skip the dairy-based ingredients for a completely plant-based dressing.
3. Add more herbs: Experiment with adding other herbs like basil, oregano, or tarragon to create your own signature flavor.
4. Lighter version: Use Greek yogurt instead of avocado to reduce the fat content while still maintaining creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store this Avocado Lime Ranch Dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The avocado may cause the dressing to thicken over time, so stir in a little more buttermilk to reach the desired consistency before serving.
• Refrigeration: The dressing will keep well in the fridge and is perfect for meal prepping, as it can be used throughout the week on salads, sandwiches, or as a dip.

FAQs

1. Can I use something other than buttermilk in this recipe?

Yes, you can use regular milk or a non-dairy milk, but buttermilk gives the dressing a tangy flavor and helps achieve a creamier texture.

2. Is this dressing suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, simply replace the buttermilk with a plant-based milk (such as almond milk) and omit any dairy ingredients for a completely vegan version.

3. Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time helps the flavors meld together and enhances the taste. Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before using.

4. How can I adjust the consistency of the dressing?

If it’s too thick, add more buttermilk a tablespoon at a time until it reaches the consistency you prefer. For a thicker dressing, reduce the amount of buttermilk.

5. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?

Yes, if you don’t have fresh herbs, you can substitute dried cilantro, parsley, and dill. Use about 1/3 of the amount listed for fresh herbs since dried herbs are more concentrated.

6. How long will this dressing last in the fridge?

This dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. However, the freshness of the avocado may affect the texture over time, so it’s best to consume it sooner rather than later.

7. Can I make this dressing without the lime?

Yes, if you don’t have lime, you can use lemon juice or even vinegar as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.

8. Can I add more garlic to this dressing?

If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two. Just be mindful that too much garlic may overpower the other flavors.

9. How can I make this dressing spicier?

To make it spicier, add a chopped jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

10. Is this dressing good for meal prepping?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping. Prepare a batch and store it in the fridge for use throughout the week. It pairs well with salads, roasted vegetables, tacos, or as a dipping sauce.

Conclusion

Avocado Lime Ranch Dressing is a creamy, refreshing, and flavorful twist on traditional ranch dressing. It’s easy to make, versatile, and packed with fresh ingredients like avocado, cilantro, and lime. Whether you use it as a salad dressing, dip, or drizzle over tacos, this homemade dressing is sure to enhance any dish. Plus, with simple swaps, you can customize it to fit your dietary preferences. It’s a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold flavors and creamy textures!

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