Let me age myself a little bit… but I remember when Ranch dressing first came out. Yep, I was born B.R. (Before Ranch.)
I remember that we had a few restaurants in town that had either a ranch or a buttermilk dressing… but it wasn’t as mainstream as we see it today.
I also remember that my mom used to make the homemade version using the Hidden Valley Ranch packets and that it was SO good! This was long before the bottled versions were released. When you make it using the packets, you don’t get that glossy look that comes in the bottle… with all the preservatives and whatnot making it look glue-like.
Making it using the mix is still my favorite. And, only Hidden Valley. Theirs is the best. So, today, I’m making a variation on the original. And, I’m reaching for it over the other bottled dressings in my fridge…. because it is far superior.
This Chipotle version of Ranch dressing has just the right amount of smokiness, and just the right amount of heat. It makes you feel like you are eating out at a restaurant who has a fancy house dressing. And, it’s a great way to use up some of the leftover chipotles from the recipe I shared on Tuesday! You’re going to love it!
Light Chipotle Ranch Dressing
Makes 2 cups
INGREDIENTS
1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch salad dressing mix
1 cup skim milk
1 cup light mayonnaise
2-3 chipotle peppers, canned in adobo
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Place the milk, mayonnaise, and ranch dip in your food processor and pulse until well combined. Note: If you don’t have a food processor, you can easy whisk the mixture together in a small bowl.
2. Next, add your chipotle peppers whole and pulse again. I used 2 peppers, but definitely add more or less to get to your preferred amount of heat. Tip: I recommend adding them one at a time, and tasting the dressing along the way. You can always add more, but you can’t take them away once they’re in there.
3. Store in a mason jar or dressing container. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving, to let the flavors develop.
4. Serve over your favorite greens.
Per 2 Tbsp. serving:
CAL 116; CARB 5g; FAT 11g; SAT FAT 2g; PROT 1g; FIB 0g; SUG 0g
WW Points Plus: 4; WW Smart Points: 4