Salad dressings are a great way to boost flavor but often come with hidden sodium, potassium, and added phosphorus. Here is a kidney-friendly salad dressing recipe that is easy to make and add pizzazz to sandwiches, salads, and crudité platters. We love pairing this dip with the Buffalo-style Crispy Baked Cauliflower!
Ingredients
Yogurt
We prefer coconut-based yogurt in this recipe because it is low in potassium, phosphorus, and protein. Use whatever yogurt you prefer that works for your taste and nutrition goals. When using plant-based yogurts, read the label to watch out for added phosphorus. If you’re up for it, try making your own plant-based yogurt. Here is a great recipe that is low on effort and big on results!
Lemon Juice
If you don’t have lemon juice on hand, a mild vinegar is a great substitution. Rice wine or apple cider vinegars are great alternatives!
Spices
You can use dried or fresh spices, whatever you have on hand. A good rule of thumb when substituting fresh spices for dried it is to double the amount the recipe calls for.
Instructions
The instructions couldn’t be simpler. Add everything to a bowl and whisk to incorporate. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. Only have garlic powder? No need to run to the store! Just double up on garlic powder. If your yogurt is too thick, add more olive oil or a splash or two of plant-based milk. This recipe will keep for several days in the refrigerator.
Recipe FAQs
Plant-based Yogurt
Why do we recommend coconut milk yogurt over other plant-based or dairy yogurts in this kidney-friendly salad dressing? It is lowest in potassium, phosphorus, and protein. Check out our guide below to compare the nutrient levels in different types of yogurt.
| Type of Yogurt (1 cup) | Potassium (mg) | Phosphorus (mg) | Protein (g) |
| Plain, low-fat yogurt | 573.3 | 352.8 | 12.9 |
| Coconut milk yogurt | 66.2 | 4.9 | 0.8 |
| Soy milk yogurt | 115.1 | 93.1 | 8.6 |
| Almond milk yogurt | 188 | *information not available | 6 |
Want a higher calorie version?
Substitute half the yogurt with plant-based mayonnaise to add additional calories and make your meal or snack more filling.
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Yogurt Ranch Dip
Ingredients
- ½ cup coconut milk yogurt
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice to taste
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon dried dill or ½ teaspoon fresh
- ¼ teaspoon dried parsley or ½ teaspoon fresh
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ⅛ teaspoon salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a small bowl and adjust seasoning to taste. Use as dips or thin into a salad dressing using a couple of tablespoons of almond milk.
Nutrition
KidneyRD Verdict
We love recipes that adapt to whatever we have in the cupboard. Feel free to experiment with different spices to make a version perfectly suited for you! Chives, cilantro, or smoked paprika are all great options to try. If there is another spice you recommend, please leave it in the comments section below. We would love to try it!
ALL information you read on KidneyRD.com is purely for informational and educational purposes. Information is not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease.