Green Goddess Dressing
Green Goddess Dressing is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 70 calories per serving. Recipe by Cooking with Coit on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 30 min
Cost: $3.69 total, $0.46 per serving
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup Olive Oil (extra virgin, provides liquid base)
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt (plain, full‑fat for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoon Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 clove Garlic (minced)
- 1 cup Parsley (leaves only, stems trimmed and cut short)
- 0.5 cup Cilantro (leaves only, stems trimmed and cut short)
- 0.25 cup Chives (roughly chopped)
- 0.25 cup Basil (leaves only, stems removed)
- to taste Salt (kosher or sea salt)
- to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
Add Olive Oil
Pour ½ cup of olive oil into the blender first so the blades have liquid to work with.
Time: PT1M
Add Greek Yogurt
Add 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt on top of the oil.
Time: PT1M
Add Lemon Juice
Add 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Time: PT30S
Add Garlic
Add one minced garlic clove.
Time: PT30S
Add Parsley
Add 1 cup of parsley leaves only, stems trimmed and cut short.
Time: PT2M
Add Cilantro
Add ½ cup of cilantro leaves only, stems trimmed and cut short.
Time: PT1M
Add Chives
Add ¼ cup of chives, roughly chopped.
Time: PT30S
Add Basil
Add ¼ cup of basil leaves, stems removed.
Time: PT30S
Blend the Dressing
Start the blender on a low pulse, then increase to a higher speed. Use the spatula to push herbs down if the blades stall. Blend until smooth, about 2–3 minutes, scraping the sides as needed. If the texture is too thick, add a splash of water or extra olive oil.
Time: PT3M
Season
Add salt and a pinch of black pepper to taste, then give a quick blend to incorporate.
Time: PT30S
Transfer and Serve
Pour the dressing into a serving bowl or jar. Use immediately as a dip, spread, or salad dressing.
Time: PT30S
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 70
- Protein
- 2 g
- Carbohydrates
- 2 g
- Fat
- 6 g
- Fiber
- 0.5 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Keto-Friendly
Allergens: Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Olive Oil: Avocado Oil, Grapeseed Oil
- Instead of Greek Yogurt: Regular yogurt strained, Sour cream
- Instead of Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic powder (1/8 tsp)
- Instead of Parsley: Flat‑leaf parsley
- Instead of Cilantro: Parsley
- Instead of Chives: Green onion tops
- Instead of Basil: Thai basil, Mint
Equipment Needed
- Blender
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Add liquid ingredients (olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice) before the herbs to ensure proper blending.
- Trim and cut herb stems short to prevent the blender blades from wrapping around them.
- Use a spatula to push herbs down if the blender stalls.
- Adjust texture at the end with extra olive oil or water if too thick.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use extra‑virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Fresh herbs make a huge difference; wash and dry them thoroughly before using.
- Taste and adjust acidity with lemon juice before the final blend.
Troubleshooting
Dressing is too thick.
Add a tablespoon of water or extra olive oil and blend again until desired consistency is reached.
Blender stops or herbs wrap around the blade.
Cut herb stems shorter, add a little more liquid, and use a spatula to push the mixture down.
Flavor is bland.
Adjust with more lemon juice, salt, or a pinch of extra pepper.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture may change after freezing.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Make the dressing a day ahead and store it in the fridge; flavors meld even more.
- Give the dressing a quick stir or shake before serving if it separates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Green Goddess Dressing in American cuisine?
Green Goddess dressing originated in the United States in the 1920s, inspired by a French sauce called "Sauce Verte" 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 flavor and creamy texture.
What are the traditional regional variations of Green Goddess Dressing in American cuisine?
Traditional versions use anchovies, mayonnaise, and sour cream, while modern clean‑comfort versions like this one swap those for Greek yogurt and extra‑virgin olive oil. Some West Coast variations add avocado or lime for a fresher twist.
How is Green Goddess Dressing traditionally served in American restaurants?
It is commonly served as a salad dressing, a dip for raw vegetables, or a spread for grilled vegetables and sandwiches. In upscale venues it may be drizzled over seafood or used as a garnish for soups.
What occasions or celebrations is Green Goddess Dressing traditionally associated with in American culture?
Green Goddess is popular at brunches, summer picnics, and holiday gatherings because it pairs well with fresh produce and adds a vibrant color to the table.
What makes Green Goddess Dressing special or unique in American cuisine?
Its combination of creamy dairy (or yogurt) with a blend of fresh green herbs creates a bright, herbaceous flavor that stands out from typical vinaigrette or ranch dressings. The dressing’s versatility as a dip, spread, or sauce adds to its appeal.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Green Goddess Dressing?
Common errors include adding herbs before enough liquid, which can cause the blender to jam, and not trimming herb stems, which can wrap around the blades. Also, over‑blending can make the dressing too thin; blend just until smooth.
Why does this Green Goddess Dressing recipe use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt provides a high protein, lower‑fat alternative while still delivering a thick, creamy texture. It also adds a tangy flavor that complements the lemon juice and fresh herbs.
Can I make Green Goddess Dressing ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, store the finished dressing in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to five days. Give it a quick stir before using, as natural separation may occur.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making Green Goddess Dressing?
The dressing should be smooth, glossy, and bright green with no visible herb chunks. If you see specks of stems or a grainy texture, blend a little longer or add extra liquid.
How do I know when Green Goddess Dressing is done cooking?
Since the dressing is not cooked, "done" means it is fully blended to a uniform, creamy consistency and the flavors have melded. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
What does the YouTube channel Cooking with Coit specialize in?
The YouTube channel Cooking with Coit specializes in clean‑comfort cooking, offering healthy, flavorful recipes that focus on simple techniques, fresh ingredients, and approachable home‑cooking style.
How does the YouTube channel Cooking with Coit's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Cooking with Coit emphasizes nutrient‑dense ingredients like Greek yogurt and extra‑virgin olive oil, avoids processed shortcuts, and provides detailed tips on ingredient preparation—setting it apart from channels that rely on pre‑made sauces or heavy cream.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
