Buttermilk Dressing (Creamy + Tangy!)
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They say a salad without dressing is just a bowl of leaves—and they’re right! A great dressing will totally transform a salad, and THIS buttermilk dressing is my go-to for adding a creamy, tangy touch that takes my salad to the next level. Plus, I’ll show you how to make it in minutes with just six ingredients!
This buttermilk dressing has become a staple in my kitchen – especially during the warmer months when I crave lighter and fresher foods, like salads. My favorite way to use it is to make a deliciously creamy coleslaw (like my broccoli coleslaw), but I’ve used it in so many other ways, too! Let me show you how it’s done.
What does buttermilk dressing taste like
First things first, let’s talk about the taste. The main thing that stands out about buttermilk dressing is the creaminess and tangy zing, thanks to the buttermilk and lemon juice. The mayonnaise adds richness without weighing it down to be too heavy, and the honey balances out the acidity with sweetness. The garlic adds savory depth, and the bit of salt balances and enhances all the other flavors – it’s so good!
Five reasons you’ll want to pour this buttermilk salad dressing on everything
There’s something special about a homemade salad dressing – perhaps because it’s so easy to grab one from the store, a homemade one stands out more. Well, this buttermilk dressing is incredibly easy to make and fresher and tastier than anything you’d find in a bottle.
Despite it’s simplicity, there are so many reasons to love this buttermilk dressing:
- Taste: Tangy buttermilk and lemon juice were made for each other! It’s creamy, bright, fresh, and totally crave-worthy.
- Ease: This buttermilk dressing takes just six ingredients and less than five minutes of time to make. All you do is put everything in a bowl and whisk together – that’s it! It couldn’t be easier, and you’ll never want to buy store-bought dressing again.
- Lighter We don’t go too wild on the mayonnaise here – I add two tablespoons, which is enough to add depth to the dressing without loading it down.
- Storage: It keeps for a week in your fridge, so you can make this for meal prep and have delicious salad lunches all week long!
- Versatility: I usually use it as a salad dressing, but you can also enjoy it as a dip or spread – it simply makes everything better!
How to use this buttermilk dressing recipe
This buttermilk dressing is creamy and tangy. It tastes indulgent yet light at the same time. I find it works well with slaws or salads made with crisp greens, like iceberg or romaine lettuce. But don’t just stop at salads – I’ve enjoyed this buttermilk dressing in other ways, too!
Here are some of my favorite ways to use buttermilk dressing:
- Pizza: I know what you’re thinking, but if this sounds strange, you should try it! It’s more common in Texas, and it’s actually really good. If you don’t want to drizzle it over your whole pizza, try using it as a dip for the crust!
- Meats: I’ve had some leftover after dressing my salad, and drizzled it over steak or other grilled meats to add a little flavor – it’s a great contrast to the deep savory flavors.
- Dip: So many things taste great dipped into this buttermilk dressing: raw veggies, chicken wings, sweet potato fries, and so much more!
- Sandwiches or wraps: Spread some on your sandwich or wraps to add a creamy, tangy touch. Or, add a drizzle on top of your fish tacos.
Fresh tip: How to make homemade buttermilk ranch dressing
If you want to add a herbaceous variation to your buttermilk dressing, with a hint of ranch-style flavor, simply add some finely chopped fresh chives, parsley, and fresh dill before whisking everything together. The fresh herbs will bring the fresh, aromatic flavors of ranch – it’s delicious!
Buttermilk dressing FAQs
If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for here, you can ask it in the comments below, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
How do I store buttermilk dressing?
Transfer it to an airtight container or mason jar, and pop it in the fridge. It will last for up to a week. Give it a good shake or stir before serving in case the ingredients separate.
My dressing turned out a bit thick/thin. How can I fix it?
To thicken up your buttermilk dressing, add a little bit more mayonnaise until it reaches the consistency you like!
If you prefer a thinner dressing, add a touch more of the buttermilk and lemon juice.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Nothing beats the flavor of fresh garlic, but it’ll work in a pinch!
Buttermilk Dressing (Creamy + Tangy!)
Ingredients
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 2 lemons (zest and juice)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (NOT Miracle Whip!)
- 1 ½ tablespoons honey
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 clove garlic (very finely minced)
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to a medium-sized bowl and whisk together.¾ cup buttermilk, 2 lemons, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 ½ tablespoons honey, ½ teaspoon sea salt, 1 clove garlic
- Whisk well. If you have 10 minutes, set the dressing aside to let the flavors meld.
- Transfer what you don't use to a clean jar and store it in your fridge for up to a week. Give the jar a shake before using.
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here.
I was pretty skeptical about this recipe but I had buttermilk to use so I went for it. It was really good! I only had 1 lemon but it was perfect…I believe 2 lemons would have been too acidic (for the record I like my food more acidic than the average person), but that’s part of cooking – not always blindly following a recipe because things like lemons vary in size and how much juice they produce. I imagine the way mine tasted was how the recipe intended as it was perfectly balanced and delicious. It was on the thin side but I’d prefer that than have to add too much of something else just to thicken it and affect the flavor in a negative way.
I love this kind of feedback — thank you so much for sharing it. You’re absolutely right about lemons varying wildly, and I’m so glad you trusted your instincts and landed on a version that tasted perfectly balanced to you. Thin-but-flavorful is exactly what I aim for here, too. Really appreciate you giving it a chance (despite the skepticism!) and taking the time to leave such a thoughtful note. 🍋✨
Yammy!!!!
Thanks, Shem!
LOVED this! Poured it over a broccoli salad and it was really tasty.