Every once in a while, a new plant-based product comes around that piques my interest. Normally, I'm fairly immune to the charms of packaged foods proclaiming that they are vegan, dairy-free, egg-free, gluten-free, high in fibre, high in protein, high in iron, chock-full of Vitamin C, Omega-3-enriched, and/ or filled with magical unicorn dust and granulated rainbows. But every now and then, something catches my eye and I feel the need to try it.
The other day I was at the grocery store, and I noticed this product:
Mayonnaise is not a very big part of our household diet, and more often than not I find a half-full jar, expired, in my refrigerator. I was picking up a small jar for my husband to use for sandwich making, when I noticed this Hellman's Carefully Crafted vegan mayonnaise, and I was so excited I practically threw it in my cart. You see, usually vegan mayonnaise requires a) a trip to a specialty/ health food store or b) the purchase of a giant double-pack at Costco, destined to expire practically before I can open the second jar.
I was excited about it because I was going to make ranch dressing, for the first time in a long time. You too can make your own ranch dressing, as a dip for vegetables or a dressing for a pasta salad. It's easy, it's delicious, and you need this recipe in your life. If eggs are not a problem for you, go ahead and use regular mayonnaise. If you have an egg allergy or otherwise don't eat eggs, keep your eyes open for this product - it's really tasty!
Ingredients
Whisk together all ingredients until smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Bonus: Pasta Salad
The beauty of pasta salad is that anything can be thrown in but the kitchen sink. I use a box of colourful rotini, about four cups of chopped vegetables - whatever I have in the crisper, but usually cherry tomatoes, peppers, and mini cucumbers - and usually a can of chickpeas, black beans, or lentils for some protein. You could also add chunks of feta cheese, tofu cubes, nuts, and seeds.
Want more pasta salad? Try my Amazing Avocado Pasta Salad. How about a non-dairy sour cream? I've got you covered. Maybe you're looking for a mayo-free potato salad? Try my Roasted Potato Salad with Avocado Dill Dressing.
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