This Creamy Avocado Buttermilk Dressing is the perfect blend of tangy, savory, and smooth.
With low-fat buttermilk, ripe avocado, sour cream, and a splash of heat from Tabasco, this dressing works beautifully as a salad topper, dip, or sandwich spread.
It’s fresh, flavorful, and made in just minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ultra-creamy texture – Thanks to avocado and sour cream.
Healthy-ish twist – Made with low-fat buttermilk and real ingredients.
Quick prep – Just toss it in a food processor and blend.
Versatile – Use as a salad dressing, dip, or sauce.
Packed with flavor – Garlic, mustard, and hot sauce bring it to life.
Great for meal prep – Keeps well in the fridge for a few days.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Low-fat buttermilk – Adds tang and thins the dressing to pourable consistency.
Sour cream + mayonnaise – Create a rich, smooth base.
Ripe avocado – Adds body and a fresh, buttery flavor.
Dijon mustard – Brings sharpness and depth.
Tabasco sauce – Adds a subtle kick without overwhelming.
Fresh cilantro – For an herby, zesty finish.
Garlic – A sharp note that lifts the creamy base.
Salt & pepper – Balance and enhance every other flavor.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use a ripe avocado – It should feel slightly soft when squeezed.
Don’t skip the Dijon – It adds complexity and emulsifies the dressing.
Adjust thickness – Add more buttermilk to thin, or less for a dip.
Use a high-powered blender or food processor – For best texture.
Store with minimal air – Use a small jar to reduce browning.
How to Make Creamy Avocado Buttermilk Dressing
Step 1: Add Ingredients to Food Processor
In a food processor or blender, combine the buttermilk, sour cream, mayonnaise, avocado, cilantro, Dijon mustard, Tabasco, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Blend Until Smooth
Pulse a few times to begin combining.
Then blend on high until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Scrape down the sides if needed.
Step 3: Adjust Seasoning
Taste and season with extra salt and pepper, if desired.
The avocado and buttermilk balance each other well, but feel free to adjust.
Step 4: Serve or Store
Transfer to a serving bowl or jar. Use immediately as a dressing or dip.
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Press plastic wrap directly against the surface if you want to minimize browning.
What to Serve It With
Green salads – Drizzle over mixed greens or romaine.
Grilled chicken or shrimp – As a zesty dipping sauce.
Tacos or burrito bowls – Spoon over for extra creaminess.
Vegetable platters – Use as a dip for carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
Burgers or wraps – Spread inside for bold flavor.
Variations / Substitutions
Make it dairy-free – Use dairy-free sour cream and milk alternatives.
Add lime juice – For extra brightness and to preserve color.
Swap herbs – Try parsley or basil instead of cilantro.
Add honey – For a touch of sweetness.
Use Greek yogurt – In place of sour cream for a protein boost.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Prevent browning – Press plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing.
Shake before use – The dressing may thicken slightly in the fridge.
Freezing not recommended – Avocado-based dressings change texture.
Use small containers – Minimizes air exposure and helps keep it fresher.
FAQs
Can I use full-fat buttermilk or sour cream?
Absolutely. It will be richer, but still delicious.
Is this spicy?
Just a hint. Add more or less Tabasco based on your heat preference.
Can I make this without a food processor?
You can mash the avocado and whisk everything by hand, but texture may not be as smooth.
How long does it last in the fridge?
About 3 days. For best quality, store in an airtight jar and keep chilled.
Can I use this as a dip?
Yes! Just reduce the buttermilk for a thicker consistency.
Will it brown from the avocado?
It might slightly. Lime juice and airtight storage help reduce this.
Can I freeze it?
Not recommended. The texture can break down once thawed.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Avocado Buttermilk Dressing is fresh, flavorful, and endlessly useful.
Whether you’re dressing a salad or drizzling over grilled veggies, it adds creamy brightness to any dish.
I love making a jar at the start of the week—it turns basic meals into something special with zero effort.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.