Pin If you are seeking a refreshing way to load up on greens and vibrant flavors this week this Green Goddess Salad is as crisp and satisfying as it gets The combination of finely chopped cabbage crunchy cucumber and a mountain of fragrant herbs tossed in the signature creamy Green Goddess dressing gives you a salad that is both nourishing and full of punchy personality It is perfect for make ahead meal prep a speedy fresh lunch or a colorful side for almost any dinner
This salad came to my rescue one spring when I needed something green and lively for a potluck Now it has become a staple for light lunches especially when I want to impress without fuss
Ingredients
- Green cabbage: Gives the base crunch and bulk to the salad Choose a firm dense head with tightly packed leaves for best texture
- English cucumber: Adds refreshing juiciness and keeps the salad hydrating Look for cucumbers with smooth skin and no wrinkles
- Green onions: Delivers gentle sharpness and extra bite Make sure stalks are plump and bright green
- Fresh parsley: Gives grassy brightness and layers flavor Flatleaf parsley is preferred for its tender texture
- Fresh chives: Offers oniony zip with a soft texture Choose vibrant bunches with no wilt
- Fresh basil: Adds herbal sweetness and a fragrant finish Smaller leaves tend to be more tender and less bitter
- Greek yogurt: Makes the dressing rich but tangy For extra smoothness use whole milk Greek yogurt
- Mayonnaise: Helps emulsify the dressing for a creamy mouthfeel Pick a real ingredient mayo for pure flavor
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Balances acidity and rounds out the dressing Go for a fresh green olive oil with a peppery finish
- Fresh lemon juice: Gives essential brightness and zing Pick a juicy lemon that yields under gentle pressure
- Fresh tarragon: Offers a delicate anise note plus depth Try to find fresh but dried works if needed
- Garlic: Provides backbone and aromatics Use firm cloves with no sprouts
- Anchovy fillets: Optional for a savory salty punch Omit for vegetarian or vegan preference
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors and seasons evenly
- Freshly ground black pepper: Finishes the dressing with subtle heat Always grind fresh for better aroma
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Chop the green cabbage as finely as possible to maximize crunch without making the salad too bulky Slice the English cucumber into thin rounds then dice for even texture Snip green onions finely for gentle sharpness Tear parsley chives and basil into small pieces to distribute flavor in every bite Gather all salad ingredients in a very large mixing bowl
- Blend the Dressing:
- Combine Greek yogurt mayonnaise extra virgin olive oil lemon juice parsley tarragon chives basil garlic and optional anchovy fillets in a blender or food processor Sprinkle in kosher salt and black pepper Puree until absolutely smooth and creamy pausing to scrape down the sides to ensure no herb is left unblended
- Dress the Salad:
- Pour dressing evenly over the chopped vegetables and herbs Use large salad tongs or very clean hands to toss until every piece is coated glistening and fragrant
- Chill and Serve:
- If desired refrigerate the salad for about fifteen minutes before serving This allows flavors to marry and makes the cabbage ultra crunchy Serve as a main lunch bowl or alongside grilled fish for a vivid side
Pin Parsley is my secret star in this recipe Its freshness always reminds me of springtime family dinners and the first time my daughter declared salad could taste this good
Storage Tips
This salad tastes especially crisp and fresh within the first day but it holds up beautifully for up to three days in the refrigerator Store in a tightly covered bowl or container If your salad looks a bit wilted give it a quick toss before serving and it will perk right up The dressing can be kept separately and drizzled over leftovers as needed
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap full fat sour cream for Greek yogurt for an extra luscious flavor Use plant based mayo and yogurt for a vegan version and leave out the anchovies No tarragon on hand Try a bit more fresh basil and a pinch of fennel seed Chopped fresh spinach or arugula can help bulk up the greens if you want more color
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This salad shines next to grilled salmon or simple roasted potatoes It also makes an ideal picnic or potluck dish since it will not wilt easily If you want more protein add diced cooked chicken hard boiled eggs or sliced avocado Serve as a filling wrap tucked into a warm pita with a handful of sunflower seeds for crunch
A Bit of History
Green Goddess dressing was dreamed up in San Francisco in the 1920s named for a stage play and quickly became an American classic The blend of herbs anchovy and creamy base was created to please guests at the Palace Hotel and has inspired countless riffs since It remains beloved for its bold yet balanced flavors
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring add pea shoots or a shower of grated radishes for extra freshness In summer toss in halved sweet cherry tomatoes For autumn try finely shredded Brussels sprouts as an alternative to cabbage
Success Stories
Friends who once claimed to dislike salad have asked me to bring this one to every gathering My neighbor now requests extra dressing to add to her lunch wraps The kids in my family often sneak a second bowl without any nudging
Freezer Meal Conversion
While the chopped salad itself does not freeze well since the cabbage and herbs lose their snap you can freeze the Green Goddess dressing alone Just pour the blended dressing into a freezer safe zip top bag and lay flat to freeze It will thaw overnight in the fridge for a make ahead salad topper
Pin Chop everything fresh and toss thoroughly for a salad that feels like springtime with every bite Serve cold for the best flavor burst
Recipe Q&A
- → What gives the salad its signature flavor?
Fresh parsley, chives, basil, and tarragon in the dressing create a bright, herbaceous taste.
- → Can I make it vegan?
Yes. Use plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise, and leave out the anchovies for a fully vegan dish.
- → How can I add protein?
Add avocado, cooked chicken, or pair with grilled fish to boost protein content in each serving.
- → Is this gluten-free?
All main ingredients are gluten-free. Ensure condiments are certified gluten-free to suit dietary needs.
- → What's the best way to serve it?
Serve immediately after tossing or chill for 15 minutes to enhance crunch and flavor infusion.
- → What tools do I need?
A large mixing bowl, chef’s knife, cutting board, blender or food processor, and measuring cups/spoons are recommended.
