Chipolte Ranch Vegan Salad Dressing Recipe Made Easy

Updated On: October 8, 2025

Looking for a deliciously smoky, creamy, and tangy dressing that fits perfectly into a vegan lifestyle? This Chipotle Ranch Vegan Salad Dressing recipe is exactly what you need to elevate your salads, grain bowls, and roasted veggies to a whole new level.

Combining the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the cool, herby freshness of classic ranch, this dressing offers a perfect balance of flavors without any dairy or artificial ingredients.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, this dressing is incredibly easy to whip up with simple pantry staples. It’s thick, luscious, and bursting with flavor, making it ideal as both a salad dressing and a dip.

Plus, it stores well, so you can prepare it in advance and have a tasty dressing ready anytime. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become your go-to for vibrant, healthy meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chipotle Ranch Vegan Salad Dressing is a game changer for several reasons. First, it’s completely plant-based, made with wholesome ingredients like vegan mayo and cashew cream that provide that creamy ranch texture without any dairy.

The chipotle peppers add a smoky, spicy kick that makes your taste buds sing.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Drizzle it over fresh greens, use it as a dip for crispy veggies or vegan nuggets, or even toss it with roasted potatoes or tofu for a flavorful punch.

And the best part? It comes together in just 10 minutes, with no cooking required!

You’ll love how it brightens up any meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 20 minutes)
  • 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to spice preference)
  • 1 garlic clove (minced)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried dill
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • High-speed blender or food processor
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small bowl (for soaking cashews)
  • Spatula
  • Jar or airtight container for storage

Instructions

  1. Soak the cashews: Place the raw cashews in a small bowl and cover with hot water. Let soak for 20 minutes to soften, then drain.
  2. Blend the base: In your blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, vegan mayonnaise, water, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick, add more water a tablespoon at a time.
  3. Add the chipotle peppers: Add 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (add the second if you prefer more heat), garlic, dried dill, parsley, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend again until well combined and smooth.
  4. Taste and adjust: Check the seasoning and add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. If you want it spicier, blend in an additional chipotle pepper.
  5. Store and chill: Transfer the dressing to a jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld together. Shake well before using.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute the soaked cashews with silken tofu or sunflower seed butter to keep that creamy texture.

Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or chives for a different herbal twist. You can also add a pinch of cumin or smoked sea salt to deepen the smoky flavor.

If you prefer a thinner dressing, simply add more water or lemon juice until you reach your preferred consistency. This dressing also works beautifully as a marinade for grilled vegetables or tofu.

Want a little tangier ranch? Increase the apple cider vinegar by half a teaspoon.

For those who love extra heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per 2 tbsp serving
Calories 80
Fat 7g
Saturated Fat 1g
Carbohydrates 3g
Fiber 1g
Sugars 1g
Protein 1g
Sodium 150mg

Serving Suggestions

This chipotle ranch dressing pairs beautifully with crisp green salads featuring romaine, kale, or mixed baby greens. It also makes a fantastic creamy sauce for grain bowls loaded with quinoa, black beans, corn, and avocado.

Use it as a dip for fresh veggie sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers, or drizzle it over roasted sweet potatoes or crispy tofu for an extra burst of flavor. It’s also a perfect topping for vegan wraps and sandwiches.

For more creative vegan salads, try pairing this dressing with the Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or add a side of the tangy Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe for a delightful contrast.

Conclusion

This Chipotle Ranch Vegan Salad Dressing is a must-have in your kitchen for its bold, smoky flavor and creamy texture that’s perfect for a variety of dishes. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and adds a deliciously vibrant touch to your meals without any dairy or artificial additives.

Whether you’re dressing a salad, dipping veggies, or enhancing roasted dishes, this dressing is sure to become a staple.

Making your own vegan dressing means you control the ingredients and avoid preservatives, ensuring a fresher, healthier option. Give this recipe a try and watch it transform everyday meals into something extraordinary.

For more hearty, flavorful dishes, don’t miss the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe—also perfect for those seeking nutritious comfort food.

📖 Recipe Card: Chipotle Ranch Vegan Salad Dressing

Description: A creamy and smoky vegan dressing perfect for salads or dipping. Made with simple plant-based ingredients and a spicy chipotle kick.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
  • 1 teaspoon adobo sauce from chipotle peppers
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Combine vegan mayonnaise and almond milk in a bowl.
  2. Add lime juice, apple cider vinegar, chipotle pepper, and adobo sauce.
  3. Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 70 | Protein: 0.5g | Fat: 7g | Carbs: 1g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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