Get ready to elevate your salad game with a dressing so irresistibly creamy and packed with flavor, you'll want to drizzle it on everything! This homemade Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch isn't just another boring salad topper – it's a gourmet experience that brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen in just minutes. Imagine a luxurious blend of tangy Parmesan, zesty peppercorns, and rich, velvety cream that will make your taste buds dance with excitement!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, crushed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and measuring tools. Ensure ingredients are at refrigerator temperature for best blending consistency.
- Using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder, crush whole black peppercorns into coarse, freshly ground pieces to release maximum flavor.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream. Whisk together until smooth and well-incorporated, creating a creamy base.
- Gradually pour in buttermilk while continuously whisking to create a uniform, pourable consistency. The mixture should be creamy but not too thick.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the dressing. Use freshly grated cheese for optimal flavor and texture.
- Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed black peppercorns. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Taste the dressing and add salt incrementally, tasting after each addition to achieve desired flavor profile.
- Transfer dressing to an airtight container or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Stir briefly before serving. Dressing will keep refrigerated for up to 5-7 days.
Tips
- Always use freshly ground peppercorns for maximum flavor intensity. Pre-ground pepper simply can't compare to the robust taste of freshly crushed spices.
- Choose high-quality Parmesan cheese and grate it yourself for the most authentic and rich flavor profile.
- Let the dressing rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and develop a more complex taste.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some of the sour cream to reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.
- Store in an airtight container and consume within 5-7 days for optimal freshness and flavor. Always give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the ingredients.
- Experiment with adding fresh herbs like chives or dill for an extra layer of complexity to your dressing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
