Green Goddess Salad Dressing Recipe Using Simple Ingredients
Green Goddess Salad Dressing Recipe Using Simple Ingredients is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Mary's Nest on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 15 min
Cost: $2.80 total, $0.70 per serving
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream (full-fat, chilled)
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (store‑bought or homemade)
- 6 stalks Scallions (white and green parts, chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (raw, unfiltered if possible)
- 1 teaspoon Anchovy Paste (tube, can substitute 1–2 whole anchovies, mashed)
- 1 clove Garlic (peeled and smashed)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (smooth)
- 1 bunch Fresh Parsley (flat‑leaf, stems trimmed to lower 1‑2 inches, washed and dried)
Instructions
Prepare Herbs
Wash the parsley, dry it, trim the lower 1‑2 inches of the stems, and roughly chop. Trim and slice the scallions.
Time: PT3M
Add Base Ingredients to Processor
Place the chopped parsley, sliced scallions, apple cider vinegar, smashed garlic clove, anchovy paste, and Dijon mustard into the food processor.
Time: PT2M
Pulse to Chop
Pulse the processor a few times until the herbs are finely chopped and the mixture is well combined.
Time: PT1M
Add Creamy Elements
Add the sour cream and mayonnaise to the processor.
Time: PT1M
Blend Until Smooth
Blend on high for about 10‑20 seconds, stopping to scrape the sides, until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
Time: PT2M
Transfer and Chill
Scrape the dressing into a clean jar, seal, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 1g
- Carbohydrates
- 2g
- Fat
- 12g
- Fiber
- 0.5g
Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Pescatarian
Allergens: Dairy, Eggs, Fish, Mustard
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Sour Cream: Greek yogurt, crème fraîche
- Instead of Mayonnaise: aioli, vegan mayo
- Instead of Scallions: green onions, chives
- Instead of Apple Cider Vinegar: white wine vinegar, lemon juice
- Instead of Anchovy Paste: whole anchovies, fish sauce (use less)
- Instead of Garlic: garlic powder (¼ tsp)
- Instead of Dijon Mustard: spicy brown mustard, whole grain mustard
- Instead of Fresh Parsley: cilantro, basil
Equipment Needed
- Food Processor
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Jar with Lid
- Small Bowl (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Chopping the parsley and scallions finely
- Ensuring the anchovy paste is fully incorporated
- Blending until the dressing is completely smooth
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use flat‑leaf parsley for the brightest green color.
- For extra herb depth, add a handful of fresh chives or basil.
- If you prefer a tangier dressing, increase the apple cider vinegar to 1 tablespoon.
Troubleshooting
Dressing is too thick
Thin with a teaspoon of water, milk, or additional apple cider vinegar until desired consistency is reached.
Raw garlic flavor is too strong
Let the dressing chill for at least 30 minutes; the flavor mellows as it rests.
Dressing is too salty
Add a bit more sour cream or mayonnaise to balance the salt, or a splash of extra vinegar.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight jar for up to 7 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture may separate.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours when serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
- The dressing keeps well refrigerated for up to a week – give it a good stir before each use.
- For a thinner dip, stir in a little milk or buttermilk just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Green Goddess dressing in American cuisine?
Green Goddess dressing originated in the 1920s at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco and became popular in mid‑century American restaurants. It reflects a retro, classic American palate that favored creamy, herb‑forward sauces.
What are the traditional regional variations of Green Goddess dressing in the United States?
Some regional versions add avocado, tarragon, or lemon juice, while others substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture. The core ingredients—parsley, anchovies, and a creamy base—remain consistent.
How is Green Goddess dressing traditionally served in American retro cuisine?
It is typically drizzled over iceberg or romaine wedge salads, served as a dip for raw vegetables, and occasionally used as a spread on sandwiches or burgers in classic American diners.
What occasions or celebrations is Green Goddess dressing traditionally associated with in American culture?
The dressing is popular at family brunches, holiday potlucks, and retro‑themed dinner parties where nostalgic dishes are highlighted.
What makes Green Goddess dressing special or unique in American cuisine?
Its bright green color, herb‑intensive flavor, and creamy texture set it apart from more common dressings like ranch or blue‑cheese, offering a fresh yet indulgent taste.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Green Goddess dressing?
Common errors include over‑blending which can make the dressing too warm, using too much anchovy paste leading to an overly salty taste, and not chilling the dressing long enough for the flavors to meld.
Why does this Green Goddess dressing recipe use anchovy paste instead of whole anchovies?
Anchovy paste distributes evenly without the need for extra chopping, ensuring a smooth texture and consistent salty depth while saving time in a quick‑prep recipe.
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 7 days. Stir or shake before each use to recombine any settled ingredients.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making Green Goddess dressing?
The dressing should be smooth, glossy, and a vibrant green color with no visible chunks of parsley or scallion. It should coat a spoon lightly without dripping excessively.
How do I know when Green Goddess dressing is done cooking?
Since there is no heat involved, the dressing is done when all ingredients are fully blended into a uniform, creamy consistency and the herbs are finely chopped.
What does the YouTube channel Mary's Nest specialize in?
The YouTube channel Mary's Nest focuses on retro‑inspired home cooking, teaching viewers how to make classic American dishes from scratch with approachable, step‑by‑step tutorials.
How does the YouTube channel Mary's Nest's approach to American retro cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Mary's Nest emphasizes nostalgic recipes, uses straightforward pantry staples, and often incorporates personal stories from the creator's youth, creating a warm, relatable cooking experience unlike more modern or technique‑heavy channels.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
