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Basil Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

A creamy, tangy buttermilk ranch dressing loaded with fresh basil, garlic, and herbs, ready in 10 minutes with no cooking required.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk until smooth and fully combined.
  2. Add the chopped basil, chives, and parsley to the bowl and stir to distribute the herbs evenly.
  3. Mix in the minced garlic, lemon juice, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
  4. Whisk everything together until the dressing is creamy and uniform in color.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
  7. Give the dressing a good stir before serving, and thin with a splash of buttermilk if you prefer a lighter consistency.

Notes

Store this basil ranch dressing in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavor gets even better after a few hours as the basil and garlic infuse into the buttermilk base. For a thinner consistency to use as a salad dressing, whisk in extra buttermilk 1 tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired texture.