This Greek yogurt ranch dip is a thicker version of classic ranch dressing, perfect for dipping vegetables or pita bread into. It is also incredibly healthy with probiotic-rich yogurt and a simple blend of dried herbs and spices.
How Do You Make Ranch Dip From Scratch?
To make this Greek yogurt ranch dip, you will first have to decide whether you would like to use a pre-made ranch seasoning mix or one you make yourself. If you have a stocked spice rack, I highly recommend you blend the necessary herbs and spices together to make your own. The prep time is less than 10 minutes, so it is very convenient to do.
Use the ratios in the recipe box below to make just enough for this dip, or make a whole jar of homemade ranch seasoning to have on hand whenever needed.
One of the benefits of a homemade ranch seasoning is that you can control what goes in it, and subsequently, what you consume. Many store-bought versions of ranch seasoning contain maltodextrin and other fillers, as well as artificial flavorings and MSG. While it is delicious and convenient, those wanting something healthier may prefer the homemade blend instead.
To make it, simply stir together dried parsley with dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, dried chives, black pepper, and sea salt. The herbs, spices, salt and pepper give the completed ranch dip a savoury taste that is irresistible.
Next, you stir the completed homemade ranch seasoning or 2-4 teaspoons (read recipe notes) previously made or store-bought mix with 1 cup of Greek yogurt until combined. The mixture can go into a nice serving bowl to enjoy as is. However, if you want to make it look extra attractive, feel free to sprinkle it with some sliced green onions or chives. The total time should only be about 5 minutes.
Some serving options include veggies for dipping such as snap peas, sliced peppers, carrot or celery sticks, or lightly blanched broccoli. Of course, crackers or pita bread triangles are excellent accompaniments as well.
What is the Difference Between Ranch Dip and Ranch Dressing?
This biggest difference between the two is that this Greek yogurt ranch dip is thicker than ranch dressing. Quite often, ranch dressing will include creamy ingredients like mayonnaise, sour cream, or plain Greek yogurt, but be loosened with a little buttermilk to make it more fluid.
In the case of this Greek yogurt ranch dip, Greek yogurt is the base. This results in a thick mixture perfect for dipping cut vegetables, bread, and crackers into.
If you would like to adapt this dip recipe into a dressing, you absolutely could. Simply blend in some milk or buttermilk until a pourable consistency is reached. This mixture will be equally great as a dipper for vegetables, but you could also drizzle it over your favourite salads or wherever else you like to enjoy ranch dressing. Even a little milk kefir could be an excellent addition to a ranch dressing as it has a sour taste.
What are the Benefits of Using Greek Yogurt in this Dip?
Greek yogurt is particularly great in this healthy veggie dip because it has a thick consistency. It is basically the same thing as regular yogurt, only it is strained to remove excess whey. Learn more about homemade yogurt in this post. If you only have regular yogurt, you could still make this dip, but it will be significantly thinner.
Another option would be to strain the yogurt yourself. In this case, you should line a fine-mesh sieve with cheesecloth or a coffee filter and set it over a bowl. Next, you add the yogurt to the lined sieve. You should set it in the fridge until the liquid has drained out of the yogurt. This process could take a few hours but will result in a much thicker yogurt.
If you know you will be serving dairy-free or vegan guests, you may even want to make this dip with coconut yogurt. The taste won't be quite the same, but it will still result in a delicious dip.
How Long Can You Store Greek Yogurt Dip?
This Greek yogurt dip probably won't last long once you serve it. However, if you need to store it, it should keep safely until the expiry date on your yogurt container. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge to reduce the chance of it picking up other flavours from the fridge.
This is an excellent dip to have on hand for quick snacks through the day or to send in kids lunches with sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and other fresh raw vegetables.
How to Serve Greek Yogurt Dip
The most obvious way to serve this is in a bowl on a tray and surrounded by a mixture of cut vegetables, pita bread wedges, chips, and crackers. However, there are other uses for it.
Consider spreading it on pita bread before filling with souvlaki, feta, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onion for a filling lunch or dinner. It would also be tasty dolloped on baked potatoes or served as a dip for fresh seafood like grilled shrimp or calamari.
Another option would be to serve it on the side of crispy baked chicken wings in place of the usual blue cheese sauce. No matter how you choose to enjoy this tasty ranch yogurt dip, it may become a go-to for quite some time.
Random Questions
Yes, Greek yogurt can be a healthy substitute for sour cream. Its thick consistency and tangy flavor make it an excellent alternative in many recipes.
Healthy dips often feature Greek yogurt as a base, providing probiotics. Opt for homemade versions to control ingredients and avoid additives.
The calorie count varies, but using Greek yogurt in ranch dip reduces calories compared to versions with mayonnaise or sour cream. It's a healthier option.
A Greek yogurt dip typically includes a blend of dried herbs and spices like parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, chives, black pepper, and sea salt for a savory flavor.
Recipe
Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip
Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt plain
- 2 teaspoons Ranch seasoning mix 4 teaspoons if using store-bought mix or if homemade mix includes buttermilk powder
Or:
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ⅓ teaspoon dried dill
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ⅛ teaspoon dried chives
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Add 2 teaspoons of ranch seasoning to 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt. Stir these 2 ingredients together until well combined.
- Top with sliced chives/green onion.
- Serve with veggies, crackers and more.
Notes
Nutrition
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