The Ina Garten Buttermilk Salad Dressing Recipe is creamy, tangy and full of flavor. It is perfect for fresh salads or as a dip.
Many people love this dressing because it is simple, quick and tastes homemade. You do not need fancy ingredients to make it.
This recipe combines buttermilk, mayonnaise, garlic and herbs for a rich and smooth dressing. Today, I will show how to make Ina Garten Buttermilk Salad Dressing Recipe step by step.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first made this dressing for a garden salad. The tangy buttermilk flavor was refreshing. Garlic and herbs added depth and aroma.
Mixing everything took just a few minutes. Pouring it over crisp lettuce and vegetables made the salad irresistible. My family loved it and asked for more.
It is versatile and works on many salads or as a dip for vegetables. I always keep this recipe in my kitchen. It is reliable, easy and delicious every time.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Ina Garten Buttermilk Salad Dressing
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Course: Dressing / Condiment
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 140 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Garlic press or knife
- Small jar or container for storing
Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Buttermilk Salad Dressing Recipe
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Garlic and Herbs
Mince garlic finely. Chop fresh parsley and chives. Fresh herbs give flavor and aroma to your dressing.
2. Mix Base Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, Dijon mustard and white wine vinegar until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Garlic and Herbs
Add minced garlic, chopped parsley and chives to the mixture. Stir gently to combine all flavors evenly.
4. Season the Dressing
Add salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The dressing should be tangy and flavorful.
5. Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows flavors to blend and dressing to thicken.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Pour dressing over salads, roasted vegetables or use as a dip for fresh veggies. Enjoy the creamy and tangy taste.
Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Buttermilk Salad Dressing
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor
- Mince garlic finely to avoid strong bites
- Chill before serving to enhance taste
- Adjust buttermilk for desired thickness
- Use good-quality mayonnaise for smooth texture
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using dried herbs instead of fresh herbs
- Adding too much garlic, making it overpowering
- Skipping chilling time; flavors may not blend properly
- Not whisking enough, causing lumps
- Using low-quality buttermilk for less tangy taste
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dressing over fresh garden salads, crisp romaine or chopped vegetables. It also works well with roasted chicken or grilled vegetables. Perfect for lunch, dinner or parties.
Variations You Can Try
- Add a teaspoon of lemon juice for extra tang
- Mix in a pinch of smoked paprika for smoky flavor
- Add a teaspoon of honey for sweetness
- Replace chives with green onions for different flavor
- Blend dressing with avocado for creamy variation
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week
- Shake or stir before each use as dressing may thicken
- Do not freeze; texture changes and herbs lose flavor
- Keep away from heat to maintain freshness
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Sugar | 0.5 g |
Health Benefits
This dressing contains healthy fats from mayonnaise and buttermilk. Fresh herbs provide antioxidants and vitamins.
It is lower in calories than store-bought creamy dressings. Using homemade ingredients ensures no artificial additives or preservatives.
Ina Garten Buttermilk Salad Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Prepare Garlic and Herbs
- Mince garlic finely. Chop fresh parsley and chives. Fresh herbs give flavor and aroma to your dressing.
Mix Base Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, Dijon mustard and white wine vinegar until smooth and creamy.
Add Garlic and Herbs
- Add minced garlic, chopped parsley and chives to the mixture. Stir gently to combine all flavors evenly.
Season the Dressing
- Add salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The dressing should be tangy and flavorful.
Chill Before Serving
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows flavors to blend and dressing to thicken.
Serve and Enjoy
- Pour dressing over salads, roasted vegetables or use as a dip for fresh veggies. Enjoy the creamy and tangy taste.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor
- Mince garlic finely to avoid strong bites
- Chill before serving to enhance taste
- Adjust buttermilk for desired thickness
- Use good-quality mayonnaise for smooth texture
FAQs about Ina Garten Buttermilk Salad Dressing Recipe
Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day before. Refrigerate in an airtight container. Shake or stir before serving.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt works for a lighter version. It adds protein and a tangy flavor.
How long does this dressing last?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week. Always keep it covered.
Can I adjust thickness of the dressing?
Yes, add more buttermilk for thinner dressing or less for thicker consistency.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are recommended, but dried herbs can be used in smaller amounts. Flavor may be less vibrant.
Final Thoughts
The Ina Garten Buttermilk Salad Dressing Recipe is simple, creamy and versatile. Learning how to make Ina Garten Buttermilk Salad Dressing ensures a fresh, flavorful addition to any salad.
With fresh herbs, tangy buttermilk and a smooth base, this dressing is perfect for everyday meals or special occasions. It is easy, fast and always delicious.
Homemade dressing tastes better and healthier than store-bought alternatives. Try this recipe and it may become your favorite go-to salad dressing.
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!