RANCH DRESSING PACKET RECIPES

Steps:

• Mince the garlic with a knife and then sprinkle about an 1/8 to ¼ teaspoons of salt on it and mash it into a paste with a fork. Chop the parsley, chives and any of the optional herbs very finely and add to the garlic.  In a bowl, combine all ingredients, adding other optional ingredients as you wish, tasting frequently and adjusting seasonings as needed. Chill for a couple of hours before serving, thin with milk or buttermilk if desired. (Don’t overdo the garlic or you’ll be up all night, emailing me about your heartburn.)

Steps:

• Arrange 2 racks to divide the oven into thirds and heat the oven to 250°F. Line 2 rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper.
• Place 8 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 10-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted, 50 to 60 seconds total. (Alternatively, melt in a small saucepan on the stovetop over low heat.)
• Place 4 1/2 cups Rice Chex, 4 1/2 cups Wheat Chex, 2 cups pretzel twists, 2 cups cheese crackers, 1 cup oyster crackers, and 1 packet of the ranch dressing seasoning mix in a large bowl, and lightly toss to combine.
• Pour half of the butter over the cereal mixture and gently toss to coat. Sprinkle in the remaining ranch packet and butter, then gently toss again so all the pieces are evenly coated.
• Divide the mixture between the prepared baking sheets and spread into an even layer. Bake, stirring every 15 minutes, until lightly browned and crisp, 45 to 50 minutes total. Let cool for 10 minutes on the baking sheets before serving.