Name: Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp dried parsley; 2 tsp dried dill; 2 tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp onion powder; 2 tsp dried onion flakes; 1 tsp ground black pepper; 1 tsp dried chives; 1 tsp fine sea salt; ⅓ cup buttermilk powder

Transform your everyday dishes with this homemade ranch seasoning mix. Ideal for salads, dips, and marinades, this blend of herbs and spices brings fresh, tangy flavor to every bite.

Photos of Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix Recipe

If you don’t have buttermilk powder or dried chives in your pantry, you might need to make a trip to the supermarket. Buttermilk powder is often found in the baking aisle, while dried chives might be in the spice section.

Ingredients For Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix Recipe

Dried parsley: Adds a touch of herbaceous flavor and vibrant green color.

Dried dill: Contributes a fresh, slightly tangy taste that pairs well with the other herbs.

Garlic powder: Provides a deep, savory base flavor.

Onion powder: Brings a mild, sweet onion flavor to the mix.

Dried onion flakes: Enhances the texture and adds a subtle crunch.

Ground black pepper: Offers a hint of heat and depth to the seasoning.

Dried chives: Imparts a mild onion-like flavor with a hint of grassiness.

Fine sea salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste.

Buttermilk powder: Gives a creamy tangy flavor essential for authentic ranch seasoning.

One reader, Carolus Fitzpatrick says:

This homemade ranch seasoning mix is fantastic! It’s bursting with flavor and so easy to make. I love adding it to salads and roasted veggies. The buttermilk powder gives it a creamy touch. Highly recommend!

Carolus Fitzpatrick

How To Make Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix

Elevate your salads and tacos with this hearty ranch seasoning mix, with minus the preservatives and using all-natural ingredients!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspdried parsley
2tspdried dill
2tspgarlic powder
2tsponion powder
2tspdried onion flakes
1tspground black pepper
1tspdried chives
1tspfine sea salt
⅓cupbuttermilk powder,optional

Instructions

Whisk the parsley, dill, garlic and onion powder, onion flakes, pepper, chives, sea salt, and buttermilk powder together until blended.
Serve over salads and other savory dishes, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

For a more finely-ground seasoning mix, pulse the mixture in a food processor until it reaches desired consistency.
Store in a sealed container for up to 1 year.
If using the buttermilk powder, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 1 month.

Nutrition

Calories: 92.70kcal
Fat: 1.17g
Saturated Fat: 0.56g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.27g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.18g
Carbohydrates: 17.09g
Fiber: 3.13g
Sugar: 4.93g
Protein: 5.83g
Cholesterol: 3.27mg
Sodium: 250.76mg
Calcium: 202.91mg
Potassium: 439.85mg
Iron: 2.51mg
Vitamin A: 23.20µg
Vitamin C: 8.09mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Ranch Seasoning Mix

For a smoother blend, use a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle to finely grind the dried parsley, dried dill, and dried chives before mixing them with the other ingredients. This will help the ranch seasoning mix adhere better to your dishes.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Ranch Seasoning Mix

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients ahead of time and store them in small containers. This makes the mixing process quicker.

Use a whisk: A whisk blends the seasoning mix more efficiently than a spoon, saving you time.

Batch preparation: Make a large batch of the ranch seasoning mix and store it in an airtight container. This way, you only need to mix once for multiple uses.

Label and date: Label your seasoning mix container with the date of preparation. This helps you keep track of freshness and ensures you use it within its best timeframe.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix Recipe

dried parsley - Substitute with dried cilantro: Both herbs provide a fresh, slightly bitter flavor that can enhance the seasoning mix.
dried dill - Substitute with dried tarragon: Tarragon has a similar anise-like flavor that can mimic the taste of dill.
garlic powder - Substitute with granulated garlic: Granulated garlic has a similar flavor profile and can be used in the same quantity.
onion powder - Substitute with granulated onion: Granulated onion provides a similar depth of flavor and can be used in equal measure.
dried onion flakes - Substitute with minced dried onions: Minced dried onions offer a similar texture and flavor, making them a suitable replacement.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor but can still provide the necessary heat and spice.
dried chives - Substitute with dried green onions: Dried green onions have a similar mild onion flavor that can replace dried chives.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used in place of fine sea salt, though you may need to adjust the quantity slightly due to the difference in grain size.
buttermilk powder - Substitute with dry milk powder: Dry milk powder can provide a similar creamy texture, though it lacks the tanginess of buttermilk. Adding a bit of lemon juice or vinegar can help mimic the tang.

Presenting Your Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that each dried parsley, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, dried onion flakes, ground black pepper, dried chives, fine sea salt, and buttermilk powder is of the highest quality to enhance the flavor profile.
Create a visually appealing mix: Whisk the ingredients together in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant green hues of the parsley, dill, and chives against the creamy buttermilk powder.
Serve in elegant containers: Present the ranch seasoning mix in a small, elegant glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. This not only keeps the mix fresh but also adds a touch of sophistication.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Place a sprig of fresh parsley or dill on top of the mix before sealing the jar. This adds a fresh, aromatic element and a pop of color.
Pair with gourmet dishes: Suggest using the ranch seasoning mix on gourmet salads, roasted vegetables, or as a seasoning for high-quality meats to elevate the dining experience.
Provide usage instructions: Include a small, elegantly printed card with serving suggestions and the recipe for the mix. This adds a personal touch and guides the diner on how to best enjoy the seasoning.
Highlight the homemade aspect: Emphasize that the ranch seasoning mix is homemade, showcasing the care and craftsmanship that went into creating it. This adds value and a sense of exclusivity.

Essential Tools for Making Ranch Seasoning Mix at Home

Whisk: Use this to blend all the dry ingredients together evenly.
Mixing bowl: This will hold all your ingredients while you mix them.
Measuring spoons: These are essential for accurately measuring out the spices and herbs.
Measuring cups: Use these to measure the buttermilk powder.
Airtight container: Store your homemade ranch seasoning mix in this to keep it fresh.
Spatula: Handy for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
Fine mesh sieve: Optional, but useful if you want to sift the mix to ensure there are no clumps.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix

To store the homemade ranch seasoning mix, transfer it to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent any moisture from getting in.
Label the container or bag with the date you made the seasoning mix, so you can easily keep track of how long it's been stored.
Place the container or bag in a cool, dry place, such as your pantry or cupboard. Avoid storing it near heat sources or in direct sunlight, as this can cause the herbs and spices to lose their flavor and potency.
When stored properly, your homemade ranch seasoning mix should last for up to 6 months. However, for the best flavor and quality, it's recommended to use it within 3-4 months.
If you want to extend the shelf life of your seasoning mix, you can store it in the refrigerator. This will help preserve the flavor and freshness of the herbs and spices for up to 8-12 months.
For longer storage, you can also freeze the ranch seasoning mix. Transfer the mix to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
When ready to use the frozen seasoning mix, let it thaw completely at room temperature. Give it a good shake or stir to redistribute any clumps that may have formed during freezing.
Frozen ranch seasoning mix can last for up to 1 year. However, for optimal flavor, it's best to use it within 6-8 months.

Interesting Trivia About Ranch Seasoning Mix

A fun fact about this homemade ranch seasoning mix recipe is that the inclusion of buttermilk powder gives it a tangy flavor similar to traditional ranch dressing. This ingredient helps replicate the creamy texture and taste without the need for refrigeration, making it a convenient pantry staple.

Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix: Budget-Friendly or Not?

Creating a homemade ranch seasoning mix is highly cost-effective. The ingredients like dried parsley, dried dill, and buttermilk powder are inexpensive and can be bought in bulk, reducing the overall cost. This mix can be used in various dishes, enhancing flavors without the need for additional expensive ingredients. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $5, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix Healthy?

The homemade ranch seasoning mix recipe is relatively healthy compared to store-bought versions, as it doesn't contain any artificial preservatives or additives. The mix is primarily composed of dried herbs and spices, which are naturally low in calories and fat. However, the recipe does include buttermilk powder, which may add some saturated fat and cholesterol to the mix.

To make the recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe, or replace it with a low-sodium alternative like potassium chloride
Use low-fat or non-fat buttermilk powder to decrease the saturated fat content
Add more dried herbs, such as basil or oregano, to increase the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the mix
Incorporate other healthy ingredients, such as nutritional yeast or ground flaxseed, to boost the nutrient profile of the seasoning

By making these simple adjustments, you can create a delicious and nutritious ranch seasoning mix that can be used to flavor a variety of dishes, from salads to roasted vegetables. Remember, moderation is key when consuming any seasoning or condiment, as they can still contribute to your overall sodium and calorie intake.

Editor's Take on This Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix Recipe

This homemade ranch seasoning mix is a versatile and flavorful blend, perfect for elevating salads and savory dishes. The combination of dried herbs and spices, along with the buttermilk powder, creates a rich and tangy profile. It's a well-balanced mix that can be easily adjusted to taste. The use of dried ingredients ensures a longer shelf life, making it a convenient pantry staple. Overall, it's a simple yet effective recipe that brings a fresh, homemade touch to your culinary creations.

Enhance Your Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roasted Vegetable Medley: Imagine a colorful array of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted to perfection, their natural sweetness enhanced by the tangy notes of your homemade ranch seasoning mix. This vibrant side dish will add a burst of flavor and color to any meal.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, tender chicken pieces threaded onto skewers, marinated in a blend of your ranch seasoning mix, and grilled to smoky perfection. These skewers are perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy, buttery potatoes mashed to a smooth consistency and infused with the rich, herby flavors of your ranch seasoning mix. This comforting side dish pairs beautifully with any main course.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers: Vibrant bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and your ranch seasoning mix, then baked until tender. These stuffed peppers are a hearty and satisfying addition to your dinner table.

Ranch-Seasoned Popcorn: Ranch-Seasoned Popcorn: Light, airy popcorn tossed with a generous sprinkle of your homemade ranch seasoning mix. This snack is perfect for movie nights or as a crunchy, flavorful appetizer.

Delicious Alternatives to Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix

Creamy Avocado Dressing: Transform your salads with this luscious avocado dressing. It's a blend of ripe avocados, tangy Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, and a hint of cilantro. Perfect for drizzling over greens or using as a dip for vegetables.

Zesty Italian Seasoning Mix: Elevate your dishes with this zesty mix of oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and a touch of red pepper flakes. Ideal for seasoning pasta, grilled meats, or even sprinkling over roasted vegetables.

Smoky Chipotle Ranch: Add a smoky kick to your meals with this chipotle-infused ranch. Combine chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with creamy buttermilk, mayo, and a dash of lime juice. Perfect for tacos, burgers, or as a dip for fries.

Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Create a fragrant and flavorful olive oil infused with fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, and a hint of lemon zest. Drizzle over grilled vegetables, pasta, or use as a dipping oil for bread.

Why trust this Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix Recipe:

This homemade ranch seasoning mix recipe is crafted with care, using simple, high-quality ingredients like dried parsley, dill, and buttermilk powder. It offers a fresh, preservative-free alternative to store-bought options. Perfectly balanced with garlic powder and onion flakes, it enhances the flavor of your salads and savory dishes. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, authenticity, and the ability to customize to your taste.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Homemade Ranch Seasoning Mix Recipe in the Ingredients Spotlight forum section.

FAQ:

How long can I store homemade ranch seasoning mix?

You can store the homemade ranch seasoning mix in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Just keep it in a cool, dry place.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?

Fresh herbs have a higher moisture content, which can affect the shelf life and texture of the mix. I recommend sticking with dried herbs for this recipe.

What can I use if I don't have buttermilk powder?

If you don't have buttermilk powder, you can use powdered milk as a substitute. It won't have the same tangy flavor, but it will still work in a pinch.

Is this seasoning mix gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this homemade ranch seasoning mix are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your buttermilk powder is certified gluten-free if you have a sensitivity.

How much seasoning mix should I use to make ranch dressing?

To make ranch dressing, mix about 2 tablespoons of the seasoning mix with 1 cup of mayonnaise and 1 cup of buttermilk. Adjust the amount to taste if needed.