One of the most popular salad dressings in America is Ranch. Ranch dressing is one that both adults and kids like! I have to admit growing up, I used to eat the Hidden Valley Ranch all the time. It was so good, but as I got older and learned more about nutrition I realized it was not the healthiest choice.
The problem is that most store-bought salad dressings are loaded with hydrogenated oils, MSG, soy, added sugar and other chemicals that are not so great for our body. I was tired of the balsamic vinegar and Italian dressing so I have been on the hunt to find a creamy and HEALTHY ranch dressing to squash my cravings.
I cannot tell you how many ranch dressing recipes I have tried that have just left me disappointed, so I gave up on trying. Recently, I went through an elimination diet and salads were a main staple for my meals. I HAD to come up with something else because I could not stomach Italian any longer.
The base of this ranch dressing recipe is Vegenaise, which is a dairy-free mayo alternative. Now, before you roll your eyes and leave, you really should give this a try. It actually tastes very similar to mayo and is a healthy alternative. There are many different types of Veganaise and my preference is the one in the light green lid, which is dairy-free, soy-free and gluten-free. I know you are thinking that it’s also probably taste free, but you would be wrong. Using this base plus the coconut milk to thin it out and the herbs make this my favorite ranch dressing alternative.
“Ranch” Dressing Recipe:
1/2 cup soy-free Vegenaise
2 tablespoons of coconut milk
1 teaspoon organic dried parsley
1 teaspoon organic dried chives
1/8 teaspoon organic dried dill
1/8 teaspoon organic onion powder
1/8 teaspoon Pink Himalyan Salt
1/8 teaspoon organic black pepper
Method:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate so flavors can combine. Enjoy!
Tips:
- Add more coconut milk to thin it out based on your personal preference
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to taste for an extra tangy flavor
- Use fresh and/or dried herbs based on what you have on hand
- Keep it at a thicker consistency to serve as a dip at your next party
What do you think of this recipe? If you know of any other great creamy and healthy alternatives or have a questions about ingredients let me know in the comments below. I am hear to help and as always learn from each other so I want you, yes you, to share!