Recipe for Creamy Ranch-Style Dressing

Cup of creamy ranch-style dressing surrounded by vegetables

Salsas, Sauces, Spreads & Seasonings Rich and Creamy

For people in love with ranch dressing, this easy recipe is rich and creamy even though it is oil free. Use it as you would normally use ranch—and maybe try something new, like using it in place of butter on your favorite vegetable or baked potato. The boiling water in combination with the cashews is the secret to thickening it correctly. You can easily add or adjust the seasonings according to your personal taste, so experiment and enjoy!

Recipe courtesy of

Heather Leno

Prep Instructions

Yield: 12 (2 tablespoon) servings
Prep Time: 5–10 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 5–10 minutes, plus refrigeration time (several hours or overnight)

Recipe Ingredients

3/4 cup raw cashews, rinsed
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon celery salt
1/8 teaspoon marjoram
3 tablespoons lemon juice, to taste
1 1/3 cups boiling water
1/2 teaspoon sweetener
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon crushed basil
1/8 teaspoon dill

Place cashews in blender.
Put water in glass measuring cup and heat to boiling in microwave. Pour boiling water over cashews.
Release blender cup vent and carefully blend mixture until nuts are creamy-smooth.
Add seasonings and lemon to taste. Mix, do not blend, as blending will result in a green dressing.
Chill for several hours or overnight. Use within 7–10 days; always keep refrigerated.