How I Make the Green Goddess Salad Dressing

How I Make the Green Goddess Salad Dressing is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 40 calories per serving. Recipe by Andy Hay on YouTube.

Prep: 5 min | Cook: 2 min | Total: 12 min

Cost: $2.97 total, $0.37 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt (plain, full‑fat or low‑fat)
  • 0.5 avocado Avocado (ripe, flesh scooped out)
  • 2 tablespoons Cilantro (loosely packed, stems removed)
  • 2 tablespoons Basil (fresh leaves only)
  • 1 tablespoon Mint (fresh leaves, chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon Chives (finely sliced)
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (zested from a fresh lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon Capers (rinsed and drained)
  • 1 clove Garlic (peeled and minced)
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground, or pinch)
  • 1 teaspoon Water (optional, to thin)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Rinse cilantro, basil, mint, and chives under cold water, pat dry, and roughly chop. Zest the lemon, then juice it. Mince the garlic and halve the avocado, scooping out the flesh.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Blend Dressing

    Add the Greek yogurt, avocado flesh, cilantro, basil, mint, chives, lemon zest, lemon juice, capers, garlic, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of water to the blender. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides once.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Store Dressing

    Transfer the dressing to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before using to let the flavors meld.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
40
Protein
2 g
Carbohydrates
3 g
Fat
2 g
Fiber
1 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Keto-friendly

Allergens: Dairy

Last updated: March 13, 2026

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How I Make the Green Goddess Salad Dressing

Recipe by Andy Hay

A vibrant, herb‑packed Green Goddess dressing made with Greek yogurt and avocado. It’s creamy, tangy, and perfect for burrito bowls, salads, or as a dip. Store it in the fridge for quick, clean‑eating meals all week.

EasyAmericanServes 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
8m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
18m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$2.97
Total cost
$0.37
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Blend until the dressing is completely smooth; texture is key.
  • Use fresh, ripe avocado for creaminess.

Safety Warnings

  • Be careful when handling the blender blade; it is extremely sharp.
  • Use a stable cutting board to avoid the knife slipping.
  • Lemon juice can cause mild skin irritation; wash hands after handling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Green Goddess Dressing in American cuisine?

A

Green Goddess dressing originated in the United States in the 1920s, inspired by a French sauce and popularized at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco. It became a staple of mid‑century American salads and is celebrated for its bright herb flavors and creamy texture.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Green Goddess Dressing in the United States?

A

Traditional versions use mayonnaise, sour cream, and anchovies, while modern health‑focused twists—like the one from Andy Hay—swap mayo for Greek yogurt and add avocado for extra creaminess. West Coast versions often incorporate fresh cilantro and lime for a brighter twist.

cultural
Q

How is Green Goddess Dressing traditionally served in American restaurants?

A

It is typically drizzled over mixed greens, served as a dip for crudités, or used as a sauce for grilled fish and chicken. In many Californian eateries, it also appears on burrito bowls and grain salads.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Green Goddess Dressing traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Green Goddess dressing is a popular choice for summer picnics, brunch buffets, and holiday potlucks because it pairs well with a wide range of fresh vegetables and proteins, making it a crowd‑pleasing, health‑conscious option.

cultural
Q

What makes Andy Hay’s Green Goddess Dressing special compared to classic versions?

A

Andy Hay’s version replaces mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a protein boost, adds half an avocado for extra richness, and incorporates a blend of fresh herbs (cilantro, basil, mint, chives) for a vibrant flavor profile that fits clean‑eating lifestyles.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Green Goddess Dressing at home?

A

Common errors include over‑blending which can make the dressing too thin, using underripe avocado which creates a grainy texture, and adding too much garlic or capers which can overpower the delicate herb balance.

technical
Q

Why does this Green Goddess Dressing recipe use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

A

Greek yogurt provides a tangy flavor, higher protein content, and fewer calories than mayonnaise, aligning with Andy Hay’s clean‑eating focus while still delivering a creamy base.

technical
Q

Can I make Green Goddess Dressing ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the dressing can be prepared up to five days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; give it a quick stir or shake before each use to recombine any settled ingredients.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Green Goddess Dressing?

A

The finished dressing should be smooth, glossy, and thick enough to coat a spoon but still pourable. It should have a vibrant green hue from the fresh herbs; any specks indicate under‑blending.

technical
Q

How do I know when Green Goddess Dressing is done cooking?

A

Since there is no heat involved, the dressing is done when it reaches a uniform, creamy consistency after blending. Taste and adjust seasoning before transferring to storage.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Andy Hay specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Andy Hay focuses on simple, health‑focused recipes that emphasize fresh ingredients, quick preparation, and practical tips for everyday home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Andy Hay’s approach to American healthy cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Andy Hay prioritizes minimal equipment, nutrient‑dense ingredients, and clear, step‑by‑step explanations, often swapping traditional high‑fat components for lighter alternatives like Greek yogurt or avocado, which sets his style apart from more indulgent or technique‑heavy channels.

channel

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