Cilantro Lime Ranch Dressing
This cilantro lime ranch dressing is the ultimate creamy, zesty, and herby companion for salads, tacos, grilled meats, and even as a dip for veggies or chips. It’s a versatile recipe inspired by years of experimenting with fresh, bold flavors in my kitchen. Each ingredient has been thoughtfully chosen to create a dressing that’s as vibrant as it is delicious.
Equipment
- High-speed blender or food processor
- Citrus juicer or hand press
- Chef’s knife for chopping cilantro and garlic
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight jar or container for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup buttermilk adjust to desired consistency
- 1 cup fresh cilantro roughly chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice from about 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon honey optional, for a touch of sweetness
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the cilantro under cold running water, pat dry, and roughly chop, including the tender stems for maximum flavor.
- Roll the lime under your palm to loosen the juice. Cut it in half and squeeze out the juice using a citrus juicer or by hand.
- In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add the chopped cilantro, minced garlic, lime juice, and honey (if using) to the blender. Blend until smooth but still speckled with bits of cilantro for a rustic appearance.
- Season the dressing with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Blend again briefly to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning or consistency if needed by adding more buttermilk or lime juice.
- Transfer the dressing to an airtight jar or container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ½ cup whole milk with ½ tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a tangier twist.
- For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
- Want it dairy-free? Use plant-based mayo and unsweetened almond or oat milk.