Creamy Ranch Hemp Dressing is a delightful and nutritious dressing that combines the classic flavors of ranch dressing with the added goodness of hemp seeds. It’s a great choice for those looking to incorporate more hemp into their diet, and it’s also suitable for vegans. Let’s delve into its history, components, preparation steps, and the time needed to make it.
History:
The history of Creamy Ranch Hemp Dressing is a modern twist on the traditional ranch dressing. Ranch dressing itself originated in the United States, with its roots traced back to the early 1950s. It was created by Steve Henson, a plumber from California, and it gained popularity when he and his wife opened a dude ranch called the Hidden Valley Ranch. The dressing was a hit among guests, and eventually, it was bottled and sold commercially. Creamy Ranch Hemp Dressing is a newer variation that incorporates hemp seeds for added nutrition and flavor.
Components:
To make Creamy Ranch Hemp Dressing, you will need the following components:
- 1/2 cup of hemp seeds
- 1/4 cup of unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried dill
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of fresh chives, chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Steps:
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Start by placing the hemp seeds, almond milk, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, dried dill, dried parsley, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a blender or food processor.
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Blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor to ensure all the ingredients are well incorporated.
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Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preferences.
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Once the dressing is well-balanced and creamy, transfer it to a bowl.
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Stir in the chopped chives for added flavor and a pop of color.
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Garnish the Creamy Ranch Hemp Dressing with fresh parsley.
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Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Time Needed:
The preparation time for Creamy Ranch Hemp Dressing is approximately 10 minutes, and the additional refrigeration time of 30 minutes is recommended for best flavor. So, in total, you should plan for around 40 minutes from start to finish.
This dressing pairs wonderfully with salads, vegetable platters, or even as a dip for your favorite snacks. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and nutritious goodness of Creamy Ranch Hemp Dressing in your meals!
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Creamy Ranch Hemp Dressing:
Nutrition Facts (per serving – approximately 2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 90
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 3g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 4g
Health Information:
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Rich in Healthy Fats: Creamy Ranch Hemp Dressing is a source of healthy fats, primarily from hemp seeds. These fats are predominantly polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which can contribute to heart health and overall well-being.
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Protein Content: With 4 grams of protein per serving, this dressing provides a decent protein boost. Hemp seeds are a plant-based source of protein, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
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Low in Carbohydrates: This dressing is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a good option for those watching their carb intake.
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No Cholesterol: Creamy Ranch Hemp Dressing is completely cholesterol-free, which can benefit heart health.
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Rich in Essential Nutrients: Hemp seeds are a nutritional powerhouse. They are a great source of essential nutrients such as magnesium, phosphorus, and iron. Additionally, they contain essential fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, which can support brain and heart health.
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No Added Sugars: The dressing contains no added sugars, which is a positive aspect for those looking to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
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Vegan and Dairy-Free: Being completely plant-based and dairy-free, this dressing is suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions or preferences. It’s a creamy alternative to traditional ranch dressings.
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Versatile: Creamy Ranch Hemp Dressing can be used as a healthier alternative to traditional dressings and dips. It can make salads, vegetables, and snacks more appealing while providing valuable nutrients.
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Gut Health: The inclusion of garlic in the dressing may provide some benefits for gut health due to its prebiotic properties, which can support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
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Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Some components in hemp seeds may have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially contributing to overall health and well-being.
Remember that these nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient variations. Creamy Ranch Hemp Dressing offers a delicious way to enhance your meals while providing several nutritional benefits.
