Today, Kevin and I will be reviewing three Hidden Valley Ranch condiments: Pickle Ranch, Garlic Ranch, and Cheez-It Ranch. The Pickle and Garlic varieties were purchased at Walmart for $4.88 each, while the Cheez-It Ranch was found at Meijer for $5.99. However, we've also seen the Cheez-It Ranch at Walmart, where it might be cheaper and available on a special display.
Introduction
We are sampling these dressings with oven-baked chicken. Here are the details of each product:
- Hidden Valley Cheez-It Ranch: Made with 100% real cheese, 20 oz (1.25 pint). This condiment promises a blend of Hidden Valley Ranch with Cheez-It cheese flavor.
Taste Test and Review
Cheez-It Ranch:
- Calories: 100 per 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
- Initial Impressions: The flavor is predominantly Ranch, with only a hint of cheese. Despite being marketed as a cheesy Ranch, the cheese flavor is quite subtle.
- Usage Suggestions: Suitable as a dip for vegetables or as a salad dressing. It could also be used on a taco or a cheeseburger, though the cheese flavor may not be strong enough for some tastes.
Pickle Ranch:
- Calories: 100 per 2 tablespoons
- Initial Impressions: This variation mainly tastes like traditional Ranch with added dill. The pickle flavor is not overpowering and doesn't have the vinegary kick one might expect.
- Usage Suggestions: Works well as a vegetable dip or on a salad. Less ideal for meats like cheeseburgers or pork chops.
Garlic Ranch:
- Calories: 130 per 2 tablespoons
- Initial Impressions: The garlic flavor is very strong, almost creamy like mayonnaise, making it a versatile condiment.
- Usage Suggestions: Excellent on pizza, french fries, salads, and even toast. This was our favorite due to its bold garlic flavor.
Conclusion
Cheez-It Ranch: While it's a good Ranch dressing, the cheese flavor is not as pronounced as expected. It’s still enjoyable, but if you're looking for a strong cheesy taste, you might be disappointed.
Pickle Ranch: A pleasant surprise with its subtle dill flavor. It's a good choice for those who enjoy Ranch with a slight twist.
Garlic Ranch: The standout of the trio. Its robust garlic flavor makes it a versatile addition to many dishes.
If you've tried any of these condiments, we'd love to hear your thoughts. Did you find the Cheez-It Ranch cheesy enough? Share your experiences with us in the comments.
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