The latest from The Secret Sauce Blog....

Ranch dressing is a versatile kitchen staple that enhances any dish, from crisp salads and veggie dips to sandwiches and even pizza. The tangy flavor and creamy texture make it an essential condiment in every household. Discover the transformative experience of dipping a slice of pizza in ranch dressing—it's truly a game-changer!

Creating your own ranch dressing allows you to enjoy the superior taste of fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic. Unlike store-bought options, homemade versions provide control over flavor intensity, ensuring a perfect balance tailored to your palate. Additionally, fresh ingredients like whole buttermilk, real mayonnaise, and full-fat sour cream contribute to a richer and more satisfying dressing.

To achieve the best homemade ranch dressing, start by finely mincing fresh herbs and garlic. Combine these with mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk in a food processor, and add onion powder, salt, and pepper. For a dip, salad dressing, or even a topping for wraps and pizza, this homemade ranch will elevate your culinary creations. Store it smartly in a squeeze bottle in the fridge, and adjust the consistency and seasoning to match your preferences. For a digital copy of this recipe and more, explore my online recipes.

When it comes to using herbs in cooking, the debate between fresh and dried is significant, as each type has its unique advantages and impacts on flavor. Fresh herbs generally offer brighter flavors and can significantly enhance the visual appeal of dishes like salads, sauces, or garnishes. They should be added towards the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant taste.

Conversely, dried herbs boast a more concentrated flavor and longer shelf life, making them ideal for dishes that require extended cooking times, such as soups or stews. The general conversion ratio is 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs to 1 teaspoon of dried. Always check the potency of your dried herbs, as their flavor can diminish over time, and store them properly to maintain their effectiveness.

Regardless of whether you use fresh or dried herbs, ensure you balance the flavors in your recipes. Combining both types can sometimes be necessary, and understanding their distinct advantages will elevate your culinary creations. Proper storage practices for both fresh and dried herbs will extend their usability and preserve their flavors for longer periods.

Start your Sunday mornings off right with a routine that brings peace and joy. For one Young Living Brand Partner, that routine includes making a delicious breakfast of eggs, bacon, and biscuits. The familiarity of this meal takes the stress out of the morning, allowing for quiet reflection and time to jot down any important thoughts. As a busy family, the author values the moments spent together around the table, sharing stories and laughter. The homemade biscuits have become the star of the Sunday breakfast, with each family member having their own unique way of enjoying them. If you want to try this unforgettable biscuit recipe for yourself, click the link provided and prepare to be delighted.

So take a moment to appreciate the quiet moments in life and prioritize coming together as a family whenever possible. And if you're looking to organize your recipes, consider using Notion, a digital tool that makes storing and finding recipes easier than ever. Don't miss out on the chance to create lasting memories with loved ones and enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast that will become a cherished tradition.

In the 3 ways to simplify spring cleaning for sports moms, step one is making a game plan! What a novel idea right? 🤯

Random Acts of Kindness day!  What would it be like if we set out to perform random acts of kindness EVERY day?  It makes me feel good to make people smile and give them a lift, especially when it's unexpected or even anonymous.  

The idea of Random Acts of Kindness day got the wheels spinning in my head of things that I could do.  I would LOVE to see your ideas in the comments below!  

1.  Leave inspiring notes on cars before I leave the grocery store.

2. Put notes of appreciation in jacket pockets or lunchboxes for the family to find later.

3. Help someone find what they need at the grocery store.

4. Leave home made cookies in someone's mailbox with a note of thanks or inspiration.

5. Leave a $5 gift card for someone you appreciate.  

I could sit here thinking of more things, but I better get to making those cookies!  

To make it super simple for you to do too, I've made this cute printable so you can give at least 4 notes of kindness to someone today!  

 Click here to print it!

Don't forget to drop your ideas for some random acts of kindness in the comments for me!