There's a hot party in my mouth! (but not too hot)



Yeah, yeah, I should probably leave the food commentary to our resident chef, Ben. But I'm taking a break from reviewing the usual fitness, tech and lifestyle products for something that made my mouth really happy. Like, really happy!

Hidden Valley Spicy Ranch: I Never Knew I Needed This in My Life (Until Now)

When it comes to ranch dressing it feels like I've tried them all. Even when Ben makes his own homemade dressing it feels like, you know -- and I mean this respectfully -- ranch. Know what I mean? Like, once you've had one you've had them all.

Then, Hidden Valley Spicy Ranch called my name as I slowly wandered down the grocery store aisle. My condiment world has been forever altered.

I'll be honest, I approached this with a healthy dose of skepticism. Spicy ranch? Seemed like a gimmick. But from the moment I peeled back the seal, I knew this was something different. The smell alone… the familiar creamy ranch aroma with a subtle, yet enticing, kick of spice. My curiosity was piqued.

My first dip was with a classic: a crispy chicken tender. Boom! The flavor explosion hit me. That signature Hidden Valley creamy tang was there, but then came the heat. Not an overwhelming, face-melting inferno, mind you. This was a controlled, subtle warmth that danced on my tongue and left me wanting more. It wasn't just heat for the sake of heat; it complemented the ranch, enhancing the flavor profile instead of overpowering it. (How am I doing so far on the food describing, Benny?)

Since that fateful first dip, I’ve been experimenting. This spicy ranch is a chameleon. It elevates everything it touches.

Pizza? Forget red pepper flakes. This is your new go-to.

Fries? Move over ketchup, there's a new sheriff in town.

Vegetables? Suddenly, even broccoli becomes craveable.

Salads? Don't even get me started on the transformative power this dressing has on a simple salad.

I’ve even used it as a marinade for chicken, adding a layer of creamy heat that’s absolutely amazing. The possibilities seem endless.

Look, I know what you're thinking: "Another flavored ranch? Is it really that different?" My answer is a resounding yes. This is a carefully crafted flavor experience that will have you reaching for more.

If you're even remotely a fan of ranch, or if you just like a little kick in your condiments, do yourself a favor and grab a bottle of Hidden Valley Spicy Ranch. Trust me, you won't regret it. It's the perfect balance of creamy, tangy and spicy, and it's about to become your new obsession.

You will thank me later. Promise.