NASHVILLE, Tennessee (AP) — Ranch dressing has enjoyed an impressive rise to fame, becoming the best-selling salad dressing in America since it surpassed Italian dressing at the end of the 20th century.
Today, ranch dressing is not just for salads but is a creamy dip for a myriad of foods, from hot wings to fried pickles, and, somewhat controversially, pizza. Its versatility has made it a staple in American cuisine, readily available in grocery stores, featured in numerous recipes, and even celebrated in dedicated cookbooks.
Nick Higgins, an executive at the company that owns Hidden Valley Ranch—the originator of the dressing—notes that the product has secured a unique place in American culture. While some label it the 'Great American Condiment,' others scorn it as 'extravagant and trashy.' This juxtaposition only adds to its allure, fostering a nostalgic connection and a devoted fanbase.
From its humble beginnings as a homemade concoction by Steve Henson at his dude ranch in California, ranch dressing quickly became a phenomenon. Henson's creamy blend of herbs, spices, and buttermilk took off as guests enjoyed it on meals during their stays. He later sold a dry mix version of the dressing, which was eventually bottled and marketed broadly. Major brands like Ken’s, Kraft, and Wish-Bone followed suit, leading to its current ubiquitous presence.
As the ranch dressing trend continues to flourish into the 21st century, its impact on American dining habits and culinary innovation signifies it will remain a beloved staple for years to come. Debbie Wilson Potts, whose family runs the Cold Spring Tavern in California – the first restaurant to serve Henson's ranch outside of his dude ranch – remembers her aunt's excitement trying ranch for the first time: 'It took off in my mouth like a freight train.'
The dressing's cultural impact is undeniable, indicated by its presence in gourmet recipes and viral food trends. In his book, American Cuisine and How It Got This Way, food historian Paul Freedman lists ranch among other notable food fads from the 1980s, projecting that its popularity is likely to endure long into the future.
This story is part of a series that celebrates American objects as the nation marks its 250th anniversary. To explore more stories related to this significant milestone, you can visit the full series linked here.
