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.