Buttermilk Dressing with Herbs & Green Pepper
Overview
- Description: This tangy buttermilk dressing, infused with fresh herbs and a subtle kick from green peppercorns, elevates a variety of salads, especially those featuring cucumbers and ripe summer tomatoes. It’s also a delightful addition when drizzled over steamed and sliced new potatoes, creating a warm potato salad that’s both refreshing and hearty.
- Category: Salad Dressings
- Keywords: Spicy, < 15 Mins, No Cook, Refrigerator
- Total Time: 10 minutes (Prep Time: 10 minutes)
- Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 479.1 kcal
- Fat: 49.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 7.3 g
- Cholesterol: 4.4 mg
- Sodium: 892.1 mg
- Carbohydrates: 7.9 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Sugar: 6.4 g
- Protein: 4.2 g
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2/3 cup | Buttermilk |
| 1/3 cup | Olive oil |
| 1 1/2 tbsp | Lemon juice |
| 1/4 cup | Mayonnaise |
| 3 tbsp | Fresh chives, chopped |
| 1 tbsp | Fresh tarragon, chopped |
| 2 tsp | Green peppercorns, crushed |
| 1/2 tsp | Salt |
| 1/4 tsp | Sugar |
Instructions
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Mix Base Ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, olive oil, lemon juice, and mayonnaise until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
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Incorporate Herbs and Seasonings: Blend in the chopped chives, tarragon, crushed green peppercorns, salt, and sugar until evenly distributed throughout the dressing.
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Refrigerate: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dressing to thicken slightly.
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Adjust and Serve: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Allow it to come to a cool room temperature before serving to enhance the flavor profile.
Tips and Variations
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Customizing the Herb Blend: While chives and tarragon provide a fresh and aromatic quality, you can experiment with other herbs such as dill, parsley, or basil. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.
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Peppercorn Options: If green peppercorns are unavailable, you can substitute them with freshly ground black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a different type of heat.
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Creaminess Adjustment: For a thicker dressing, increase the amount of mayonnaise or use Greek yogurt. For a lighter version, reduce the mayonnaise or substitute it with low-fat yogurt.
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Acid Balance: The lemon juice adds a bright acidity that balances the creamy elements. If you prefer a less tangy dressing, decrease the lemon juice slightly or add a small amount of honey to sweeten.
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Serving Suggestions: This dressing is versatile and pairs beautifully with various salads. Consider using it over mixed greens, arugula, or a simple tomato and cucumber salad. It also works well as a dip for raw vegetables or as a topping for grilled chicken.
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Storage: Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake or whisk before using as the ingredients may separate over time.
Nutritional Insights
- Fat Content: The fat content is predominantly from olive oil and mayonnaise, providing essential fatty acids and contributing to the dressing’s creamy texture.
- Carbohydrates and Sugars: The sugars come from the buttermilk and the small amount of added sugar, offering a mild sweetness that balances the tanginess.
- Protein: The buttermilk contributes to the protein content, making this dressing a more nourishing choice compared to traditional vinaigrettes.
Culinary Context
Buttermilk dressings are a staple in Southern cuisine, known for their tangy flavor and creamy consistency. This particular recipe leverages buttermilk’s natural acidity, complemented by the rich mouthfeel of olive oil and mayonnaise. The fresh herbs add a burst of flavor, while the green peppercorns provide a subtle spiciness that differentiates this dressing from more conventional options.
Using buttermilk as a base for dressings not only adds flavor but also provides a probiotic benefit, as buttermilk contains beneficial bacteria that aid in digestion. This dressing is not only a culinary delight but also a healthier alternative to store-bought versions laden with preservatives and artificial flavors.
Recipe Pairings
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Salad Greens: A mix of tender greens such as butter lettuce, arugula, and baby spinach is ideal for showcasing this dressing. Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions for a refreshing summer salad.
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Warm Potato Salad: Pour the dressing over warm, steamed new potatoes for a unique take on potato salad. The warmth of the potatoes allows the flavors of the dressing to permeate, creating a comforting side dish.
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Grilled Vegetables: Use as a finishing touch for grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. The dressing’s creamy and tangy notes complement the smoky flavors of the grilled vegetables.
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Chicken or Fish: Drizzle over grilled or roasted chicken breasts or a simple baked fish fillet for an instant flavor boost. The acidity in the dressing cuts through the richness of the proteins, creating a well-balanced dish.
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Dipping Sauce: Serve as a dipping sauce for crudités or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps. The versatility of this dressing makes it a fantastic addition to any summer picnic or casual meal.
Final Thoughts
The Buttermilk Dressing with Herbs & Green Pepper is a versatile and flavorful addition to any kitchen. Its quick preparation time and the ability to enhance a variety of dishes make it a go-to recipe for those looking to add a fresh and tangy element to their meals. Whether used on salads, as a dip, or even as a sauce, this dressing showcases the perfect balance of creaminess, herbaceousness, and a hint of spice. Embrace the simplicity of its ingredients and enjoy the complexity of its flavor in your next culinary creation.
