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Cilantro Lime Ranch Dressing

This Cilantro Lime Ranch Dressing is creamy, tangy, and packed with fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and herbs. It's perfect as a salad dressing, dipping sauce, or taco topping and comes together in just minutes with simple ingredients.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dressing
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, packed
  • 1 large juice of lime
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon onion powde
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin (optional)

Equipment

  • 1 Blender or food processor
  • 1 Set measuring cups
  • 1 Set measuring spoons
  • 1 Citrus juicer
  • 1 Microplane or zester optional
  • 1 Chef's knife
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Rubber spatula
  • 1 Mixing bowl optional
  • 1 Airtight glass jar or container

Method
 

  1. Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, cilantro, lime juice, lime zest (if using), garlic, dill, chives, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cumin to a blender or food processor.
  2. Blend for 30–60 seconds until smooth and creamy.
  3. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning with more salt, lime juice, or buttermilk if needed.
  4. Transfer the dressing to an airtight jar or container.
  5. Refrigerate and let it rest for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
  6. Stir before serving and enjoy over salads, tacos, burrito bowls, grilled chicken, vegetables, or as a dip.

Notes

  • Resting the dressing enhances the flavor and creates a smoother consistency.
  • For a thinner dressing, add extra buttermilk one tablespoon at a time.
  • For a thicker dip, reduce the buttermilk slightly.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in a sealed container.
  • Do not freeze, as the texture may separate after thawing.