If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and utterly irresistible salad option, the Iceberg Lettuce Wedges with Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe should be your next go-to. This dish pairs the crisp, refreshing crunch of iceberg lettuce with a luscious, creamy ranch dressing made from scratch—bursting with flavors of dill, chives, and garlic. It’s simple to prepare, beautifully classic, and utterly satisfying whether as a light lunch or a stellar side at dinner. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite in so many kitchens.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Iceberg Lettuce Wedges with Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a key role in layering freshness, creaminess, and a hint of tangy zing that makes every bite exciting. From the cool crunch of iceberg lettuce to the herb-studded vibrance of the ranch dressing, you’ll see how simple staples come together to create something truly special.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and creamy texture, essential for that classic ranch flavor.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Provides richness and smoothness to the dressing.
- 1/4 cup whole egg mayonnaise: Brings silky body; if you use regular mayo, omit the lemon juice for balance.
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice: Injects brightness and a gentle zing to lift the dressing.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses savory warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 1/2 tsp dried dill: Adds a fragrant, herbal note that is iconic in ranch dressings.
- 2 tbsp fresh chives (finely chopped): Introduces subtle onion-like sharpness and fresh color.
- 1/2 tsp table salt: Enhances and balances all other flavors perfectly.
- Black pepper: Just a few grinds for a touch of mild heat.
- 1 iceberg lettuce (cut into 6 – 8 wedges): The star of the dish, offering crispness and a juicy crunch.
- Extra chives (finely chopped, optional): For garnish and added freshness when serving.
How to Make Iceberg Lettuce Wedges with Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Dressing
The first step sets the foundation for your ranch magic. Combine buttermilk, sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, dried dill, chopped chives, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Whisk everything until you achieve a perfectly smooth, creamy dressing. This simple blending process melds all the herbs and spices into a harmonious flavor that will have you eager to dig in.
Step 2: Chill and Let Flavors Develop
Transfer your freshly made ranch dressing to a jug or airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. Chilling allows the flavors to marry and intensify, transforming your dressing from good to downright unforgettable. This step is crucial if you want to experience that signature tangy, herbaceous burst when you finally serve it with the lettuce wedges.
Step 3: Prepare the Iceberg Lettuce Wedges
While the dressing chills, take your iceberg lettuce and cut it into 6 to 8 wedges. You want these wedges thick enough to hold up to that luscious dressing, but still delicate enough to show off the crunch when you take a bite. Washing and thoroughly drying the wedges will keep them crisp and fresh right up to serving time.
Step 4: Plate and Serve
Arrange the iceberg wedges neatly on a plate. You can either drizzle your homemade ranch dressing generously over the top or serve it on the side for dipping, depending on your preference. Sprinkle extra chopped chives over the wedges for a pop of green and a fresh burst of flavor. And just like that, your Iceberg Lettuce Wedges with Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe is ready to impress!
How to Serve Iceberg Lettuce Wedges with Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish so easily. Freshly chopped chives or a scattering of crisp bacon bits add great contrast in flavor and texture. A sprinkling of cherry tomatoes on the side can bring a beautiful splash of color and juicy sweetness. The charm of this recipe is in its simplicity, so garnishes should only enhance, never overwhelm.
Side Dishes
Iceberg Lettuce Wedges with Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe pairs beautifully with heartier main dishes like grilled steak, roasted chicken, or even BBQ ribs. The cool creaminess of the dressing acts as a perfect foil to smoky, savory proteins. It also works well alongside baked potatoes or a platter of roasted vegetables for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving these lettuce wedges on rustic wooden boards or in individual bowls for a more elegant touch. Adding edible flowers or microgreens as decoration makes this humble salad feel special. You can even set the dressing in mini dipping cups alongside each wedge for a fun, interactive experience at casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have some leftover dressing, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The iceberg lettuce wedges are best eaten fresh, as they tend to lose their crispness after a few hours once cut. Keep any unused wedges whole and refrigerated in plastic wrap if needed.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this recipe. The lettuce will become watery and limp after thawing, and the fresh herbs in the ranch dressing will lose their vibrant flavors. This dish is definitely best enjoyed fresh for maximum texture and taste.
Reheating
Since this recipe is served cold, reheating is not applicable. The crunchy nature of iceberg lettuce and the creamy dressing are best savored chilled and fresh. If you want to warm up accompanying dishes, such as grilled meats or sides, do so separately.
FAQs
Can I make the ranch dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the dressing a few hours or even a day ahead is perfect. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an even tastier dressing when you serve it.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No problem! You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using, and your dressing will still be deliciously tangy.
Is iceberg lettuce the only option for this recipe?
Iceberg lettuce is preferred because of its crisp texture and mild flavor, which balances the creamy ranch perfectly. But if you want to experiment, crisp romaine or butter lettuce can also work in a pinch.
Can I adjust the herbs in the dressing?
Yes, feel free to tweak the herb mix to your liking. Fresh dill and chives really make this recipe sing, but adding a pinch of parsley or substituting some dried herbs with fresh can be a delightful twist.
How should I serve this salad at a party?
Serve individual wedges on small plates with a dollop or side cup of ranch dressing. This makes it easy to eat and share. Garnishing with colorful veggies or small bacon crumbles will make your platter extra inviting.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Iceberg Lettuce Wedges with Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe enough for anyone craving a quick, fresh, and flavorful salad experience. Its crisp texture combined with that heavenly homemade ranch dressing creates a harmony that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re whipping it up for yourself, family, or friends, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite you’ll want to revisit again and again. So grab that iceberg, stir up your ranch, and enjoy every crunchy, creamy bite!
Print
Iceberg Lettuce Wedges with Homemade Ranch Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (4 to 6 wedges each)
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crisp iceberg lettuce wedges served with a creamy, homemade ranch dressing featuring buttermilk, sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh herbs, and spices. This fresh and easy appetizer or side is perfect for light lunches, dinners, or entertaining.
Ingredients
Ranch Dressing
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup whole egg mayonnaise (if using regular mayonnaise, omit the lemon juice)
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 1/2 tsp dried dill
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp table salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Salad
- 1 iceberg lettuce, cut into 6 – 8 wedges
- Fresh chives, finely chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Make the ranch dressing: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, sour cream, whole egg mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, dried dill, finely chopped chives, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Chill the dressing: Transfer the prepared ranch dressing into a jug or container and refrigerate it until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to thicken slightly.
- Prepare and serve the wedges: Place the iceberg lettuce wedges onto a serving plate. Spoon the chilled ranch dressing on the side or drizzle over the wedges. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped chives for added color and flavor. Serve immediately.
Notes
- If using regular mayonnaise instead of whole egg mayonnaise, omit the lemon juice to balance the flavors.
- The recipe yields 4 servings with 4 to 6 wedges each depending on wedge size.
- This dish is best served fresh to maintain the crisp texture of the iceberg lettuce.
- For added crunch, consider sprinkling some chopped bacon or toasted nuts over the wedges before serving.
- The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
