Green Goddess Dressing Recipe (5 Minutes!) - Wholesome Yum (2024)

I used to think that green goddess salad dressing was only for restaurants or bottled stuff at the store, but after experimenting with making it at home, I’m sold on making it myself. Homemade is so much better! And this green goddess dressing recipe isn’t just for salads… it’s the perfect sauce or dip when you want to add instant flavor to your food! It’s super rich and creamy, and made with whole, fresh ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Green Goddess Dressing Recipe

• Garlicky, herby flavor
• Rich and creamy texture
• Easy to make with your favorite herbs
• Ready in minutes
• Naturally low carb and gluten-free
• Only 91 calories per serving
• Pairs well with a wide variety of dishes — not just salad!

What Is Green Goddess Dressing?

Green goddess salad dressing is a tangy, creamy, herby dressing that originated in the 1920s at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco. It tastes a lot like Caesar dressing, but with a more herby flavor. It’s perfect for brightening up the flavor in salads, meat dishes, or just as a simple veggie dip!

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here I explain the best green goddess dressing ingredients, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card below.

• Mayonnaise – I like making avocado oil mayonnaise, but any store-bought variety will also work. You can lighten up the dressing further by replacing this with Greek yogurt, but I much prefer the flavor with some mayo in there.
• Sour Cream – Adds tang and creaminess. You can also use Greek yogurt, buttermilk (though the result will be thinner), or 1/2 of a large, ripe avocado for a dairy-free option.
• Anchovy Paste – Don’t be intimidated! Anchovies are a classic ingredient in every green goddess salad dressing recipe, and this paste creates a savory (not fishy) flavor. You can also use 1 to 1 1/2 canned anchovy fillets, or capers.
• Lemon Juice – Fresh lemons work best here, but you can also use bottled lemon juice for convenience. If needed, you can substitute other acids such as white wine vinegar, lime juice, or apple cider vinegar.
• Garlic – Again, fresh is best! However, you could use 2 teaspoons jarred minced garlic.
• Fresh Herbs – This recipe uses fresh parsley and chives, but you can also use any combination of fresh herbs like tarragon, green onions, basil, cilantro, dill, or mint. The herbs must be fresh, though — not dried.
• Spices – This dressing only needs sea salt and black pepper, but you could also add a spicy kick with a pinch of cayenne pepper (or fresh jalapeño!).

How To Make Green Goddess Dressing

To make homemade green goddess dressing, simply toss all the ingredients to a high-speed blender or food processor, and blend until smooth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Easy, peasy!

Storage Instructions

This dressing is perfect to make ahead! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 5-7 days.

Like all mayo-based dressings, avoid freezing green goddess, as it will separate and lose its smooth and creamy texture.

Ways To Use Green Goddess Salad Dressing

The best use for this dressing is in green goddess salad! However, it’s a versatile sauce you can use in so many ways — and more than just salad. Try it in these dishes:

• Veggie salads – The best way to use dressing! Drizzle it onto cucumber tomato avocado salad, swap it for the ranch in cobb salad or the thousand island in chef salad, or even substitute the Caesar dressing in Caesar salad.
• Grilled meats and seafood – It makes the ultimate sauce for the best burgers, perfect grilled salmon, grilled shrimp skewers, or flavorful lamb kofta kebabs. Not grilling? Try it with air fryer wings!
• Healthy sandwiches or wraps – This creamy green goddess dressing makes the perfect condiment for your favorite wandwich or wrap! I love veggie-centric options like bell pepper sandwiches, crunchy cucumber subs, or collard green wraps.
• Use as a dip – It’s a delicious dipping sauce alternative for crudités! I like to pair with sliced raw or roasted vegetables, seasoned air fried sweet potatoes, or almond flour tortilla chips.
• Bowl meals – Make a grain bowl with your favorite cooked grains (or cauliflower rice), your favorite meats, and veggies.

More Healthy Dressing Recipes

Don’t stop at green goddess! Make all your favorite salad toppers with these easy recipes: