Green Goddess Dressing
Green Goddess Dressing is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 25 calories per serving.
Prep: 12 min | Cook: 2 min | Total: 27 min
Cost: $7.20 total, $1.80 per serving
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup Fresh Basil Leaves (packed, loosely chopped)
- 0.5 cup Fresh Parsley Leaves (packed, loosely chopped)
- 0.5 cup Green Onions (white and green parts, chopped)
- 0.25 cup Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 0.25 cup Olive Oil (extra virgin, for healthy fats)
- 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar
- 1 piece Shallot (small, minced)
- 2 clove Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt (full‑fat, plain)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- to taste to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
Wash and Chop Herbs
Rinse basil, parsley, and green onions under cold water, pat dry, then loosely chop them.
Time: PT5M
Mince Aromatics
Peel and finely mince the shallot and garlic cloves.
Time: PT3M
Measure Liquids
Measure ¼ cup lemon juice, ¼ cup olive oil, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar into a small bowl.
Time: PT2M
Add Ingredients to Blender
Place the chopped herbs, minced shallot, garlic, Greek yogurt, measured liquids, salt, and pepper into the blender. For most blenders add liquids first; for a NutriBullet add them last.
Time: PT1M
Blend Until Smooth
Pulse a few times to break up the herbs, then blend continuously for about 1–2 minutes until the dressing is a uniform light‑green and creamy consistency.
Time: PT2M
Taste and Adjust
Taste the dressing and add more lemon juice, salt, pepper, or a little water to reach your desired flavor and consistency.
Time: PT1M
Store
Transfer the dressing to an airtight container or mason jar, seal, and refrigerate.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 25
- Protein
- 1 g
- Carbohydrates
- 2 g
- Fat
- 1 g
- Fiber
- 0.5 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free, Low‑Carb, Keto‑Friendly (if oil amount is kept high)
Allergens: Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Fresh Basil Leaves: Thai basil, Spinach
- Instead of Fresh Parsley Leaves: Cilantro, Chives
- Instead of Green Onions: Chives, Leeks
- Instead of Lemon Juice: Lime juice, Apple cider vinegar (less tart)
- Instead of Olive Oil: Avocado oil, Grapeseed oil
- Instead of Rice Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar, White wine vinegar
- Instead of Shallot: Red onion (finely minced), Green onion (white part)
- Instead of Garlic Cloves: Garlic powder (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Greek Yogurt: Regular plain yogurt, Silken tofu (for vegan)
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt (adjust amount)
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper, Ground cayenne (for heat)
Equipment Needed
- Blender or Food Processor
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Spatula
- Airtight Container (e.g., Mason jar) (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Adding liquids close to the blender blade for proper emulsification
- Blending until completely smooth
- Adjusting consistency with water if too thick
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use fresh, high‑quality herbs for the brightest flavor.
- Extra‑virgin olive oil adds depth; avoid light or refined oils.
- Full‑fat Greek yogurt gives the creamiest texture; low‑fat yogurt can make it watery.
- A pinch of cayenne or hot sauce adds a subtle heat without overpowering the herbs.
Troubleshooting
Dressing is too thick
Add water a few teaspoons at a time while blending until the desired consistency is reached.
Dressing is too thin
Add an extra tablespoon of Greek yogurt or a drizzle more olive oil and blend again.
Grainy texture
Blend longer on high speed; ensure herbs are finely chopped before blending.
Bitter or sharp flavor
Balance with a pinch more salt, a splash of honey or maple syrup, or additional lemon juice.
Storage
Refrigerator: Up to 7 days in an airtight container
Freezer: Not recommended; texture may separate
Room temperature: Do not leave out more than 2 hours
Make-Ahead Tips
- Make the dressing up to a week in advance; store in the fridge.
- If the dressing thickens after chilling, stir in a little water or extra lemon juice before using.
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 at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco, where it was created as a tribute to the actress Mrs. Green. It quickly became a classic American salad dressing, celebrated for its herb‑forward flavor and creamy texture.
What are the traditional regional variations of Green Goddess dressing in the United States?
Traditional versions use a base of mayonnaise, sour cream, and anchovies. Modern variations, like this recipe, swap mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter profile and may add different herbs such as cilantro or chives depending on regional preferences.
How is Green Goddess dressing traditionally served in American restaurants?
In classic American restaurants it is often served drizzled over mixed greens, as a dip for raw vegetables, or as a topping for seafood salads. Some upscale venues also use it as a sauce for grilled chicken or fish.
What occasions or celebrations is Green Goddess dressing commonly associated with in American culture?
Green Goddess dressing is popular at summer barbecues, brunch buffets, and holiday gatherings because it pairs well with fresh seasonal produce and can be made ahead for large crowds.
What authentic traditional ingredients are essential for a classic Green Goddess dressing versus acceptable substitutes?
The classic recipe calls for mayonnaise, sour cream, anchovies, chervil, tarragon, and lemon juice. Acceptable substitutes include Greek yogurt for mayo/sour cream, fresh basil or parsley for chervil, and omitting anchovies for a vegetarian version.
What other American dishes pair well with Green Goddess dressing?
Green Goddess pairs beautifully with Caesar salads, shrimp cocktail, grilled chicken breast, fish tacos, and roasted vegetable platters, adding a bright herbal note to each.
How does Green Goddess dressing fit into the broader American salad dressing tradition?
It represents the American love for creamy, herb‑infused dressings, sitting alongside Ranch, Thousand Island, and Blue Cheese as a staple that showcases fresh garden flavors while remaining indulgent.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Green Goddess dressing at home?
Common errors include over‑blending which can make the dressing too thin, adding too much oil which overwhelms the herbs, and neglecting to taste and adjust acidity. Also, using wilted herbs results in a dull flavor.
Why does this Green Goddess dressing recipe use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt provides a tangy creaminess with fewer calories and more protein, while still delivering the thick texture that traditional mayonnaise offers. It also keeps the dressing fresher‑tasting.
What does the YouTube channel Unknown specialize in?
The YouTube channel Unknown focuses on quick, versatile home‑cooking tutorials that emphasize fresh ingredients, simple techniques, and adaptable recipes for everyday meals.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
