The Green Goddess Salad is more than just a bowl of greens—it’s a vibrant mix of crunch, freshness, and creamy dressing that feels both healthy and indulgent.
The name alone hints at its bright, green ingredients, and the flavor delivers with every bite.
It’s the kind of salad that makes you want seconds, even if you’re not usually a “salad person.”
Green Goddess Salad
This salad has roots in the 1920s, named after a play called The Green Goddess.
Over the decades, it has taken on many versions, but the idea has always been the same: crisp vegetables tossed in a herb-packed, creamy dressing that feels rich but refreshing. It’s not a plain leafy salad—it’s hearty, textured, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
For the salad base:
- 1 small head of green cabbage, finely chopped
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bunch green onions, chopped
- 1–2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves
For the dressing:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- ½ cup fresh parsley
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 small shallot
- 1 avocado (optional for creaminess)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: sunflower seeds, toasted almonds, or shredded parmesan.
Instructions
- Prep the vegetables. Finely chop the cabbage, cucumber, green onions, spinach, parsley, and basil. Place everything in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the dressing. Add basil, spinach, parsley, garlic, shallot, avocado (if using), yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and vinegar to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the salad. Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables. Toss until everything is coated in the creamy, green goodness.
- Chill before serving. For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for 15–20 minutes so the vegetables soak up the dressing.
How to Serve It
This salad works beautifully as a side dish or even the main event. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or a slice of crusty bread.
For a lighter meal, enjoy it on its own with a sprinkle of seeds or nuts for crunch.
It also makes a fun party salad—serve in small bowls or cups for guests to enjoy with forks. And don’t be surprised if it disappears quickly—it’s that good.
Conclusion
Green Goddess Salad is proof that healthy food can be bold, creamy, and absolutely satisfying. With its crunchy base and flavorful dressing, it feels indulgent but fresh at the same time.
Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, a potluck, or a dinner party, this salad always stands out. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s earned its “goddess” name.