This creamy, tangy ranch dressing is a heart-healthy choice for anyone following a low salt lifestyle. Made with everyday ingredients, it delivers classic flavor with minimal sodium.

This low sodium ranch dressing is smooth, rich, and full of herby flavor—without the salt overload. Perfect for salads, veggies, or sandwiches, it’s made with a blend of reduced-fat sour cream, no-salt mayo, and dried herbs. The taste is fresh and balanced, and the homemade buttermilk substitute keeps it light and salt-smart.

For those needing stricter sodium control, using a low sodium homemade mayo brings the sodium down to just 8 mg per tablespoon. It’s a creamy, kidney-conscious alternative to store-bought dressings.

Ingredients Needed:

½ cup mayonnaise: use low sodium or homemade.
½ cup reduced-fat sour cream: smooth base with less fat.
1 teaspoon dried chives: mild onion flavor.
½ teaspoon dried parsley: fresh herby taste.
½ teaspoon dried dill weed: classic ranch touch.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: adds subtle depth.
½ teaspoon onion powder: balances the creaminess.
1 teaspoon sugar: tiny hint of sweetness.
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper: light spice.

Buttermilk Substitute:

½ cup 2% milk
½ tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice

How To Make Low Sodium Ranch Dressing:

Make Buttermilk Substitute:
Mix milk with vinegar or lemon juice. Let sit 10–15 minutes.

Whisk Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, chives, parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, and pepper.

Add Buttermilk Substitute:
Whisk in milk mixture until desired consistency is reached.

Chill and Serve:
Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to blend flavors.

Recipe Tips:

For the lowest sodium version, make homemade low sodium mayo.
Fresh herbs can be used when available.
Always refrigerate before serving for best flavor.
Adjust herb levels to your personal taste.

How to Store:

Fridge: Store in airtight jar for up to 7 days.
Freezer: Not recommended. Dairy-based dressings separate when thawed.

Nutrition Facts (per Tbsp, approx):

Calories: 43
Sodium: 35 mg (8 mg with homemade mayo)
Fat: 4.4 g
Protein: 0.3 g
Carbs: 0.5 g
Sugar: 0.3 g
Fiber: 0 g

FAQs:

Is ranch dressing high in sodium?
Store-bought versions usually are, but this homemade recipe is a sodium-conscious option.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain low sodium Greek yogurt works well as a substitute.

What’s a good herb to add for extra flavor?
Try tarragon or fresh basil for an added twist.

Can I skip the sugar?
Yes. It’s optional and won’t affect the texture.

Does this work as a dip too?
Yes! Simply reduce the buttermilk for a thicker consistency.