
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.
A vibrant, crunchy salad featuring shredded cabbage, diced cucumber, onion, and creamy avocado all tossed in a homemade Green Goddess dressing. Inspired by Baked by Melissa's viral salad, this version adds avocado for extra richness and is perfect as a side or a light main served with tortilla chips.
Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist
Everything you need to know about this recipe
The Green Goddess dressing originated in the 1920s at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco and became popular in mid‑century American salads. Combining fresh herbs with creamy yogurt and mayo, it reflects the American love for rich yet herbaceous dressings, and the cabbage‑based version gained viral fame through social media.
In the Pacific Northwest, the salad often includes kale or spinach, while in the Southwest you might find added corn and black beans. Some versions replace avocado with sliced hard‑boiled eggs for extra protein, but the core herb‑yogurt dressing remains consistent.
It is commonly presented as a side dish at potlucks, barbecues, and brunches, often accompanied by crunchy tortilla chips or toasted pita wedges, allowing guests to scoop the salad and enjoy the creamy dressing together.
The salad is popular at summer picnics, Fourth of July gatherings, and casual family dinners because it can be made ahead and served cold, making it a convenient, crowd‑pleasing side.
Authentic ingredients include fresh herbs (parsley, chives, tarragon), Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic. Substitutes can be regular plain yogurt, vegan mayo, or cilantro for parsley, but the flavor profile changes slightly.
It pairs nicely with grilled chicken, fish tacos, roasted pork tenderloin, or as a topping for burgers. The creamy, herbaceous dressing complements smoky or spicy mains.
Common errors include over‑mixing the avocado, which makes it mushy, using a dressing that’s too thick, and letting the cabbage sit too long without draining excess moisture, which leads to sogginess.
Natasha adds avocado to increase creaminess and nutritional value; the original focused on crisp veggies only. The avocado balances the tangy dressing and adds healthy fats, making the salad more satisfying.
Yes. Prepare the dressing and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the shredded cabbage and diced vegetables separate, then combine with dressing just before serving. The salad stays fresh for 1‑2 days when stored properly.
The cabbage should be thin and airy, the cucumber and onion crisp, and the avocado buttery yet intact. The dressing should coat each piece lightly, giving a pale green sheen without pooling at the bottom.
Since this is a no‑cook salad, it is done when all vegetables are uniformly diced, the dressing is smooth, and the salad is tossed until every bite is evenly coated. Taste for seasoning and adjust if needed.
Natashas Kitchen focuses on approachable, home‑cooked meals with a modern twist, often featuring fresh produce, quick techniques, and customizable recipes that suit busy lifestyles.
The channel emphasizes simplicity, flavor balance, and visual appeal, encouraging viewers to experiment with ingredient swaps while maintaining clear, step‑by‑step guidance.
Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Crispy, buttery chicken wings tossed in a bright homemade lemon‑pepper sauce that beats the fast‑food version. Coated in a light flour dusting, deep‑fried to golden perfection, then finished in the oven and tossed with melted butter, fresh lemon juice, zest and a salt‑free lemon‑pepper seasoning. Garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh pop.

A nostalgic, savory onion pie with a buttery saltine cracker crust, caramelized onions, sharp cheddar, and a creamy egg custard. Perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner, this vintage recipe from Jim's Kitsch Kitchen brings old‑fashioned flavor to the modern kitchen.

A super easy and elegant appetizer featuring toasted baguette slices topped with a creamy white bean spread, fresh figs, thyme, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Perfect for parties or a fancy snack.

Crispy baked chicken bites coated in a garlicky Parmesan crust and tossed in a buttery garlic‑Parmesan sauce. Perfect for game day, parties, or a quick appetizer that can also serve as a main dish.

A foolproof, elegant chocolate truffle recipe that uses just high‑quality chocolate, heavy cream, and a touch of orange liqueur. The ganache is chilled, scooped, rolled, and coated in a variety of festive toppings – perfect for holiday gifts or a luxurious treat.

A quick, nutritious snack made with just berries, dates, water and agar (or gelatin). Blend the fruit and sweetener, dissolve agar, pour into silicone molds, chill, and enjoy a low‑sugar, high‑fiber gummy that’s perfect for fitness lovers.