National Ranch Day

National Ranch Day is a day dedicated to celebrating one of the most beloved condiments in the United States: ranch dressing. This tangy, creamy dressing has been a staple in American kitchens for decades, and it’s no surprise why. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re dipping your veggies, drizzling it over a salad, or using it as a marinade, ranch dressing is the perfect addition to any dish.

A Brief History of Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing was first created in the 1950s by a man named Steve Henson. Henson, who was a plumber by trade, was also a talented chef. He and his wife, Gayle, owned a dude ranch in California, where they served their guests delicious meals and snacks. One of the most popular dishes was a dressing that Steve had created, which he called “Buttermilk Dressing”. This dressing was so well-received by his guests that Steve and Gayle decided to bottle it and sell it to other restaurants. In 1972, the Hensons sold the recipe to Clorox, and ranch dressing became a household name.

The Versatility of Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re a fan of traditional ranch or you prefer a spicy or herb-infused version, there’s a ranch dressing out there for everyone. Some of the most popular uses for ranch dressing include:

• Veggie Dip: Ranch dressing is the perfect dip for raw veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. It’s a healthier alternative to other dips like ranch and it’s a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables.
• Salad Dressing: Ranch dressing is a classic salad dressing, and for good reason. Its tangy, creamy flavor pairs perfectly with greens, and it’s a great way to add some extra flavor to your salad.
• Marinade: Ranch dressing can also be used as a marinade for meat, poultry, or fish. Its tangy flavor helps to tenderize the meat and adds flavor to the dish.

How to Make Homemade Ranch Dressing

Making your own ranch dressing is surprisingly easy, and it’s a great way to control the ingredients that go into your dressing. Here’s a simple recipe for homemade ranch dressing:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • 2 teaspoons dried dill
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
• Instructions:
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and buttermilk until well combined.
  2. Add in the parsley, chives, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Whisk until everything is well combined.
  4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  5. Pour the dressing into a jar or bottle and store in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Conclusion

National Ranch Day is a day to celebrate one of the most beloved condiments in the United States. Whether you’re a fan of traditional ranch or you prefer a spicy or herb-infused version, there’s a ranch dressing out there for everyone.