This Serrano Ranch dressing is rich, creamy and completely dairy-free, making it a flavorful, wholesome alternative to traditional ranch. Blending fresh cilantro, spicy serrano, and a touch of tangy vinegar, it brings a bold, Mexican-inspired flavor to the classic dressing. Ready in less than 10 minutes and with a perfect balance of heat and herbs, you'll never want to go back to store-bought again.
If you've tried my Chipotle Ranch or Coconut Lime Jalapeño Dressing, you know I love bold, Mexican-inspired flavors in homemade dressings. I also prefer making my own because they're fresher, healthier and easy to whip up.
Today's ranch dressing is a delicious spicy twist on the classic, plus skips the additives and dairy and is Whole30 compatible. With just the right kick of serrano, it's perfect for drizzling over tacos, dipping veggies or adding a little heat to your favorite salads.
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If you like the heat of serrano peppers, check out this extra spicy Serrano Salsa.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Mayonnaise: Use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own homemade mayo for a healthier and delicious alternative. You can also sub greek yogurt for a tangier result, if dairy isn't a problem for you.
- Rice Vinegar adds a subtle tang, but apple cider vinegar or lime juice can also be used.
- Garlic Powder and Onion Powder
- Dried Dill: I like to use dry dill for convenience, but fresh dill can also be used for a more vibrant flavor.
- Serrano Pepper: Choose serranos that are firm and bright green. If you prefer less spice, remove the seeds and membranes or use a jalapeño pepper instead.
- Fresh Cilantro
- Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk to achieve the right creamy consistency. Almon milk can also be used.
- Salt
See recipe card for quantities.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Chop Serrano: Chop the serrano in pieces for easier blending.
- Add Ingredients: Combine chopped serrano, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, vinegar, dill, cilantro, salt, and coconut milk.
- Blend: Use an immersion blender to blend the ingredients until smooth. A regular blender or food processor can also be used.
- Check and Adjust: Check the consistency and taste for seasoning. Add more milk and salt if needed.
Recommended for This Recipe
Chosen Foods Mayo
If I don't make my own mayo, then I turn to this one by Chosen Foods. It is made with avocado oil for a healthier option, plus it has a great flavor.
How to Serve
This spicy dressing is great on top of your favorite salads or as a vegetable dip, but here are some other ideas on how to use it:
- Tacos: Drizzle over tacos like Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa or Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Tacos
- Bowls: Spoon over Sweet Potato Taco Bowl
- Flautas: Use it to dip Flautas de Pollo or Pork Flautas
- Tuna: Serve with Mexican Tuna Patties or mixed into tuna salad
Storing
Store in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Tips and Variations
- Less Spice: Remove the seeds and membranes from the inside of the serrano. You can also use a jalapeño pepper which are less spicy than serranos, but also be sure to remove the seeds and membranes.
- More Spice: Add an extra serrano for more spice.
- Adjust Consistency: Add more or less coconut milk than indicated to get your desired consistency.
I hope you enjoy! If you try this recipe, please leave me a comment with a star rating below. Also, be sure to follow me on Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest to stay in touch, and don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter.
Related
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Recipe
Creamy Serrano Ranch (Dairy-Free)
Equipment
- Immersion Blender or blender/ food processor
- cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar sub apple cider vinegar or lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried dill or 3 tsps fresh dill
- 1 serrano pepper
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- ⅛ cup full-fat coconut milk or almond milk
Instructions
- Chop the serrano in pieces for easier blending.
- Combine chopped serrano, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, vinegar, dill, cilantro, salt, and coconut milk.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the ingredients until smooth. A regular blender or food processor can also be used.
- Check the consistency and add more milk if a thinner consistency is desired.
- Taste for seasoning and add more salt if desired.
Joseph M.
I was on the lookout for a different style of ranch and came upon this one. The serrano and cilantro give this ranch such a complex and zesty flavor. Love it!
Gemma
I love the spicy ranch with the cilantro too! So happy you liked it!