Quick and Easy Green Goddess Avocado Dressing
Quick and Easy Green Goddess Avocado Dressing is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 100 calories per serving. Recipe by Laura M. Ali, MS, RDN, LDN on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 15 min
Cost: $5.87 total, $1.47 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 each Avocado (ripe, flesh only; scoop as close to skin as possible)
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil (extra‑virgin; half added before blending, half drizzled in slowly)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Chives (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Tarragon (chopped)
- 1 clove Garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons Almond Milk (unsweetened; add 1 tbsp at a time until desired thickness)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground, or to taste)
Instructions
Prepare Avocados
Cut each avocado in half lengthwise, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh with a spoon, staying as close to the skin as possible to capture all the green flesh.
Time: PT2M
Add Initial Ingredients to Processor
Place the avocado flesh, half of the olive oil (2 Tbsp), chopped parsley, chives, tarragon, minced garlic, and lemon juice into the food processor.
Time: PT1M
Blend Until Smooth
Pulse the processor on high until the mixture is smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides with a spatula.
Time: PT30S
Emulsify Remaining Olive Oil
With the processor running, slowly drizzle the remaining olive oil (2 Tbsp) in a thin stream to create an emulsion.
Time: PT1M
Final Blend
Scrape the sides again and pulse briefly to ensure a uniform texture.
Time: PT30S
Adjust Thickness with Almond Milk
Add almond milk one tablespoon at a time, blending after each addition, until the dressing reaches your desired pourable consistency.
Time: PT1M
Season and Store
Taste the dressing, add salt and pepper as needed, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
Time: PT30S
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 100
- Protein
- 1 g
- Carbohydrates
- 4 g
- Fat
- 9 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Vegan (when using almond milk), Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free (with almond milk), Keto‑Friendly
Allergens: Tree nuts (almond milk), Potential dairy (if regular milk is used)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Avocado: ripe mango puree (different flavor), silken tofu (for vegan, less avocado flavor)
- Instead of Olive Oil: avocado oil, canola oil
- Instead of Fresh Parsley: cilantro, basil
- Instead of Fresh Chives: green onion tops, leek greens
- Instead of Fresh Tarragon: dry tarragon (use 1/3 amount), fresh dill
- Instead of Garlic: garlic powder (1/8 tsp), shallot
- Instead of Lemon Juice: lime juice, apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp)
- Instead of Almond Milk: regular milk, soy milk, oat milk
- Instead of Salt: sea salt, kosher salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: white pepper, ground cayenne (pinch for heat)
Equipment Needed
- Food Processor
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Rubber Spatula
- Small Bowl
- Airtight Container
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Scooping avocado flesh as close to the skin as possible to capture all green goodness.
- Slowly drizzling the remaining olive oil while the processor is running to create a stable emulsion.
- Adding almond milk gradually to control the final thickness.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use fully ripe avocados for maximum creaminess.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavor and helps prevent browning.
- Extra‑virgin olive oil adds depth; avoid low‑quality oil.
- Chill the dressing for 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Troubleshooting
Dressing separates after sitting.
Re‑blend with a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water until smooth.
Dressing is too thick.
Thin it with additional almond milk or a little water, one tablespoon at a time.
Dressing is too thin.
Add another half avocado or a teaspoon more olive oil and blend again.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Shake or stir before using.
Freezer: Not recommended; the dressing may separate after thawing.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours; keep chilled for longer periods.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the dressing up to 3 days ahead; store chilled and give a quick stir before serving.
- If the dressing separates, re‑blend with a splash of olive oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Green Goddess Avocado Dressing in American cuisine?
Green Goddess dressing originated in the 1920s at San Francisco’s Palace Hotel, inspired by a French herb sauce. It became popular in the United States as a vibrant, herb‑laden dressing for salads and vegetables, and the avocado version adds a modern, creamy twist.
What are the traditional regional variations of Green Goddess Dressing in the United States?
Classic Green Goddess uses anchovies, sour cream, and mayonnaise, while modern American variations often replace dairy with avocado or Greek yogurt for a lighter texture. West Coast versions frequently incorporate avocado and olive oil for a healthier profile.
How is Green Goddess Avocado Dressing traditionally served in American households?
It is commonly drizzled over mixed greens, used as a dip for raw vegetables, or served alongside grilled fish and chicken. In many American homes it appears on brunch tables as a fresh, herbaceous topping for salads and grain bowls.
What occasions or celebrations is Green Goddess Avocado Dressing traditionally associated with in American culture?
The dressing is popular at summer barbecues, potlucks, and brunch gatherings because its bright flavor pairs well with fresh, seasonal produce. It’s also a favorite for holiday salads when a lighter, creamy dressing is desired.
What other American dishes pair well with Green Goddess Avocado Dressing?
It pairs beautifully with crisp Caesar salads, roasted vegetable medleys, grilled shrimp, and as a sauce for baked potatoes or quinoa bowls. The creamy herb profile also complements fish tacos and chicken wraps.
What makes Green Goddess Avocado Dressing special or unique in American cuisine?
The avocado version offers a dairy‑free, nutrient‑dense alternative while preserving the classic herb‑forward flavor. Its bright green color and silky texture make it a visually striking and health‑focused twist on a historic American dressing.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Green Goddess Avocado Dressing?
Common errors include over‑processing which can make the dressing bitter, adding the remaining olive oil too quickly causing separation, and using under‑ripe avocados which result in a thin, watery texture. Follow the slow‑drizzle step and use fully ripe fruit for best results.
Why does this Green Goddess Avocado Dressing recipe use a slow drizzle of olive oil instead of blending it all at once?
Slowly drizzling the oil while the processor runs creates a stable emulsion, ensuring the dressing stays thick and glossy. Adding all the oil at once can cause the mixture to separate, resulting in a runny texture.
Can I make Green Goddess Avocado Dressing ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; give it a quick stir or re‑blend before serving to recombine any settled ingredients.
What does the YouTube channel Laura M. Ali, MS, RDN, LDN specialize in?
The YouTube channel Laura M. Ali, MS, RDN, LDN focuses on evidence‑based nutrition, healthy cooking demonstrations, and practical meal‑prep tips for families and individuals seeking balanced, wholesome meals.
How does the YouTube channel Laura M. Ali, MS, RDN, LDN's approach to American healthy cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Laura M. Ali combines her registered dietitian expertise with clear, step‑by‑step cooking videos, emphasizing nutrient density, portion control, and ingredient substitutions, whereas many other channels prioritize taste alone without detailed nutrition guidance.
Last updated: September 3, 2026






