Dill Salad Dressing
Dill Salad Dressing is a creamy, flavorful addition to your salads that brings a burst of freshness and tang. With its delightful blend of herbs and spices, this dressing elevates any greens, making them irresistible. Whether you’re drizzling it over a crisp garden salad, using it as a dip for veggies, or slathering it on a wrap, this dressing is a versatile staple that will soon become a favorite in your kitchen. Plus, it’s unbelievably easy to whip up at home with just a few simple ingredients.
Why This Recipe Works
This Dill Salad Dressing shines with its perfect balance of creamy sour cream and tangy buttermilk, creating a luscious base that’s bursting with flavor. The dried dill weed and parsley add an aromatic touch, while the onion powder brings a mild sweetness that complements the sharpness of the season salt and black pepper. This combination results in a dressing that is not only delicious but also rich in flavor, making it a delightful addition to any meal. It’s a dressing that you can feel good about pouring on your favorite greens.
What You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley – Adds a fresh herbal note.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder – Provides depth and sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons dried dill weed – The star of the show, delivering that classic dill flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon season salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a mild kick.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – Creates a creamy texture.
- 1 cup buttermilk – Provides tanginess and helps thin out the dressing.
Hardware & Gadgets
- Mixing bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
- Whisk – To blend the ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring spoons – For accurate ingredient proportions.
- Storage container – To keep the dressing fresh in the refrigerator.
Cook Dill Salad Dressing Like This

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by collecting all your ingredients. This makes the process smooth and ensures you have everything you need on hand.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the dried parsley, onion powder, dried dill weed, season salt, and ground black pepper. Whisk them together until they are evenly mixed.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Base
Next, add the sour cream to the dry ingredients. Using your whisk, blend them together until they form a smooth mixture.
Step 4: Incorporate the Buttermilk
Slowly pour in the buttermilk while continuing to whisk. This will help to thin out the dressing to your desired consistency. Keep whisking until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Give your dressing a taste. If you feel it needs more seasoning, feel free to add a pinch more salt or pepper according to your preference.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Transfer the dressing into a storage container and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Seasonal Flavor Boosts

- Fresh Dill – If you have fresh dill on hand, feel free to substitute it for the dried dill for an even more vibrant flavor.
- Lemon Juice – A splash of fresh lemon juice can brighten the dressing and add a zesty kick.
- Garlic Powder – For those who love garlic, a teaspoon of garlic powder can add a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Chopped Green Onions – Stir in some finely chopped green onions for an added crunch and flavor.
Insider Tips
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the sour cream with a non-dairy alternative and use plant-based buttermilk.
- This dressing can also double as a tasty dip for chips or fresh veggies.
- For a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of buttermilk used.
- Letting the dressing sit overnight in the refrigerator can enhance the flavor even further.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Dill Salad Dressing fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to one week. Always give it a good stir before serving, as some separation may occur over time. If you find the dressing has thickened too much, simply mix in a little extra buttermilk to reach your desired consistency.
Dill Salad Dressing FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes! If you prefer fresh herbs, you can substitute dried herbs with three times the amount of fresh herbs. For this recipe, use 6 tablespoons of fresh parsley and 6 teaspoons of fresh dill.
Is it necessary to use buttermilk?
While buttermilk adds a wonderful tang and creaminess, you can substitute it with regular milk or a non-dairy milk mixed with a bit of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the tanginess.
Can I make this dressing in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it in advance allows the flavors to develop further. Just remember to store it in the fridge and give it a good stir before using.
What salads pair well with this dressing?
This Dill Salad Dressing pairs beautifully with garden salads, potato salads, and even as a dressing for coleslaw. It’s also delicious on grilled chicken or fish.
Before You Go
Dill Salad Dressing is not just a simple addition to your meal; it’s a flavor enhancer that brings together all the elements of your salad. With its creamy texture and herby notes, this dressing is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, whip up this delightful dressing, and enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors it brings to your salads and beyond. Happy cooking!

Dill Salad Dressing
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons dried dill weed
- 1/4 teaspoon season salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream creates a creamy texture
- 1 cup buttermilk provides tanginess and thins dressing
Instructions
- Start by collecting all your ingredients. This makes the process smooth and ensures you have everything you need on hand.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the dried parsley, onion powder, dried dill weed, season salt, and ground black pepper. Whisk them together until evenly mixed.
- Add the sour cream to the dry ingredients. Using your whisk, blend them together until they form a smooth mixture.
- Slowly pour in the buttermilk while continuing to whisk. This will help to thin out the dressing to your desired consistency. Keep whisking until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Give your dressing a taste. If needed, add a pinch more salt or pepper according to your preference.
- Transfer the dressing into a storage container and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring Spoons
- Storage container
Notes
- Substitute fresh herbs for dried at a 3:1 ratio for brighter flavors.
- Use non-dairy alternatives for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust buttermilk quantity to reach desired thickness.
- Chill dressing overnight to enhance flavor.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

