A Farmer's Guide to Healthier Salads: Locally-Sourced Greens & Homemade Dressing

As a regenerative farmer here at Tyner Pond Farm in Indiana, I've always believed in the power of knowing where your food comes from and what goes into it. That's why we prioritize growing and crafting our own meals from scratch whenever possible. Our recent discovery of farmer  Amy from Berry Good Farms has not only elevated our salads with their incredible greens but also inspired us to share a simple, delicious homemade dressing that perfectly complements the fresh flavors of local produce. By choosing local, we're not just getting access to superior produce; we're taking back control of our food system and our health. We're supporting independent farmers who prioritize nutrient-dense soil, biodiversity, and fair labor practices—not the profits of faceless corporations. This means the food on our tables is not only fresher and more flavorful, but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, free from the unknown additives and long-distance transport that compromise the integrity of our food. It's a choice for a healthier, more secure, and more transparent food system.

The Flavor of Local, Sustainable Produce

The only thing on this plate UPF is the Bun..shop local! Amy's commitment to sustainable, chemical-free farming practices aligns perfectly with our values at Tyner Pond Farm. Her salad mixes, bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, are a testament to the difference that locally-grown, responsibly-produced food can make. It's a far cry from the mass-produced greens that often lack the same depth of flavor and nutritional value.

Taking Control in the Kitchen: A Yogurt-Based Buttermilk Ranch

But the benefits of local eating don't stop at the produce aisle. By making our own salad dressings, we can control the quality of ingredients and avoid the added sugars, preservatives, and artificial flavors found in ultra-processed store-bought options. Opt out of store-bought and try this homemade ranch on your next local salad. Our go-to dressing is a simple yet flavorful yogurt-based buttermilk ranch. It's made with wholesome ingredients like plain yogurt (I make mine in the instant pot), buttermilk, dried herbs, and spices. Not only is it delicious, but it's also a healthier alternative to traditional ranch dressings, which are the definition of Ultra-Processed foods.

Here are the ingredients for Hidden Vally Ranch Dressing Mix: Maltodextrin, Buttermilk, Salt, Monosodium Glutamate, Garlic (Dried), Onion (Dried), Lactic Acid, Calcium Lactate, Spices, Citric Acid, Less than 1% of: Calcium Stearate, Artificial Flavor, Xanthan Gum, Carboxymethylcellulose, Guar Gum, Natural Flavor....the bottled stuff has a lot more unrecognizable ingredients.

 

Recipe: Yogurt-Based Buttermilk Ranch Dressing (Quart)

• 4 cups plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon dried chives
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 tablespoon dried dill
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 8 teaspoons lemon juice
• 4 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons black pepper

Whisk all ingredients together in a large bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend. Store in Mason Jars or a resealable container.  It's good for about a week.

A Call to Action: Local Greens, Homemade Dressing, Healthier You

By choosing local greens and making your own dressing, you're not only improving the taste and nutritional value of your salads, but you're also taking a stand for a healthier food system. You're supporting local farmers, reducing your exposure to processed ingredients, and enjoying the satisfaction of creating delicious, wholesome food from scratch.