Ranch Dressing

Makes 3 cups

• 2 cups mayonnaise
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

1. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, sour cream, parsley, sugar, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

2. Transfer to a covered container and refrigerate until ready to use.

Preparing Salad Greens

Any leafy tender green, such as lettuce (but also small, tender leaves of spinach or kale), can be used to make a salad. If you are starting with a whole head of lettuce: Remove the core from the lettuce using a knife. Cut or tear the lettuce into consistent-sized pieces and place them in a bowl of very cold water. The cold water will keep the leaves crispy and remove any dirt or sand. Gently wash the lettuce, being careful not to bruise the delicate leaves. Dry the lettuce in a colander or salad spinner; this will keep the leaves fresh and crisp.