The Green Goddess Salad became a TikTok sensation in early 2023, popularized by home cooks sharing the bright, nutrient‑dense recipe. It reflects the modern American trend of viral, plant‑based meals that emphasize fresh greens and creamy, nut‑based dressings.

While the core recipe stays the same, some regions add avocado, kale, or replace cashews with peanuts. West Coast versions often include microgreens, whereas Midwest cooks may swap basil for parsley.

It is typically served chilled as a side dish or tossed into wraps and grain bowls. Many people enjoy it alongside grilled proteins or as a light lunch on its own.

Because it’s quick and vibrant, the salad is popular at summer picnics, brunches, and casual dinner parties. Its bright green color also makes it a favorite for health‑focused gatherings.

Its combination of raw cabbage crunch with a rich, lemon‑basil cashew dressing creates a contrast of textures and flavors rarely found in traditional salads, embodying the fusion of classic comfort and trendy plant‑based ingredients.

Common errors include over‑blending the dressing (making it too thin), using too much cabbage which can overwhelm the dressing, and forgetting to season the dressing properly. Slice the cabbage thinly and taste the dressing before tossing.

Cashews provide a creamy, fatty base that mimics the mouthfeel of cheese while keeping the dish vegan. They also add a subtle nutty sweetness that balances the lemon and basil.

Yes. Prepare the dressing up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the sliced vegetables separate and toss with the dressing just before serving to maintain crunch.

The cabbage should be thinly sliced and still crisp. The dressing should be smooth, pale green, and coat the vegetables lightly without pooling. The final salad should look vibrant with specks of basil and chives.

The YouTube channel Merle O'Neal focuses on approachable, health‑focused home cooking, often featuring viral recipes, vegan adaptations, and livestream cooking sessions with a personable, humor‑filled style.

Merle O'Neal blends candid, relatable commentary with clear step‑by‑step instructions, emphasizing quick, budget‑friendly meals and testing viral trends, whereas many other vegan channels focus more on gourmet techniques or strict nutrition science.