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Easy Southwest Ranch Dressing

This vibrant and creamy dressing combines classic ranch flavors with a zesty Southwest kick, perfect for salads, tacos, or as a dipping sauce. It's incredibly simple to whip up in minutes!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Condiment, Dressing, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southwest, Tex-Mex
Calories: 100
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version
  • 1/4 cup Buttermilk add more for thinner consistency
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp Lime Juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Cumin ground
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Salt or to taste
  • 1/8 tsp Black Pepper freshly ground, or to taste
  • Pinch Cayenne Pepper optional, for extra heat

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Airtight Jar or Container

Method
 

Making the Dressing
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  2. Add the finely chopped fresh cilantro, fresh lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the wet mixture. If using, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  3. Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly until completely smooth and all the spices are fully incorporated. Make sure there are no lumps.
  4. Taste the dressing and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want more salt, pepper, lime juice, or even a bit more chili powder depending on your preference. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add another tablespoon or two of buttermilk, whisking until combined.
  5. Cover the bowl or transfer the dressing to an airtight jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps the dressing thicken slightly. Serve chilled.

Notes

For best flavor, make the dressing at least an hour ahead of time and chill. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. This dressing is fantastic on salads, as a dip for veggies or chicken tenders, or drizzled over tacos, burritos, or quesadillas.