Green Goddess Salad Dressing Recipe Guide

Introduction

Embark on a journey through culinary history with this classic Green Goddess Salad Dressing, a recipe that has stood the test of time since its inception at the iconic Palace Hotel in San Francisco during the 1920s. Celebrated for its vibrant herbal flavor, creamy texture, and versatility, this dressing has become a staple for salad lovers and food enthusiasts worldwide. Crafted with a harmonious blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh herbs, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, and anchovy fillets, it offers a delightful balance of richness and freshness, elevating any salad from simple to extraordinary. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal, hosting a large gathering, or seeking to add a touch of elegance to your everyday dishes, this Green Goddess Salad Dressing is your perfect companion, bringing a burst of herbal goodness to every bite.

Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls (preferably medium-sized)
• Whisk or spoon for blending
• Sharp knife for chopping herbs and anchovies
• Cutting board
• Airtight storage container or jar
• Lemon juicer (optional but recommended)
• Microplane or fine grater (optional for zesting lemon)

Tags

Salad Dressing, Herby, Creamy, Quick Recipe, No Cooking, Healthy, Classic, Vintage, Fresh Herbs, Elegant, Easy, Refrigerator Friendly

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of Green Goddess Salad Dressing, which comfortably serves around 16 portions, assuming each serving is about 2 tablespoons. This amount is ideal for family meals, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week.

Difficulty Level

Easy — suitable for beginner cooks and those with minimal kitchen experience, requiring only basic chopping, measuring, and mixing skills.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

Vegetarian (contains fish, so pescatarian-friendly); not vegan due to mayonnaise and sour cream. Can be adapted to dairy-free and vegan options by substituting ingredients accordingly.

Course

Salad Dressing / Condiment

Cuisine

American / Classic Salad Dressing

Ingredients

Ingredient Details in Tables

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure the herbs are fresh, washed thoroughly, and patted dry. Finely chop the chives and parsley using a sharp knife on a clean cutting board. If you haven’t done so yet, peel the garlic if using, or prepare any additional herbs you might want to include for variation. Squeeze fresh lemon juice using a citrus juicer or by hand, ensuring no seeds fall into the mixture. Carefully mince the anchovy fillets into tiny pieces. This step is critical as the anchovies melt into the dressing, imparting a savory umami flavor that is characteristic of the traditional Green Goddess dressing.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise and sour cream. Use a whisk or a sturdy spoon to blend these two ingredients into a smooth, homogeneous mixture. This forms the creamy base that will carry the herbal and savory flavors. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds to ensure the mixture is well combined and free of lumps. The consistency should be thick yet pourable, so if it seems too stiff, you can gently stir in a teaspoon of water or additional lemon juice to thin it out slightly.

Step 3: Incorporate Herbs and Flavorings

Add the finely chopped chives and parsley to the bowl. Incorporate them thoroughly into the mixture, ensuring even distribution. The fresh herbs are the hallmark of this dressing, providing vibrant green color and a fresh, herby aroma. Next, pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the white wine vinegar. These acidic components brighten the overall flavor profile, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise and sour cream. Mix everything well, ensuring the liquids are evenly dispersed throughout the dressing.

Step 4: Add Anchovies and Final Seasoning

Mince the anchovy fillets into tiny pieces using a sharp knife. Add these to the bowl. Use your whisk or spoon to stir the anchovies into the dressing, breaking them down further if needed to ensure a smooth texture. The anchovies will dissolve into the mixture, contributing umami and depth of flavor. Once incorporated, taste the dressing with a clean spoon. Adjust the seasoning by adding a pinch of salt or freshly ground black pepper if desired. Keep in mind that the anchovies and mayonnaise already add saltiness, so taste carefully before adding extra salt.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

This is a crucial step. Sample the dressing and determine if it meets your flavor expectations. If it needs more acidity, add a splash more lemon juice or vinegar. For more herbal brightness, sprinkle in additional chopped herbs. If you prefer it creamier, stir in a little more mayonnaise or sour cream. Adjust seasonings gradually to avoid overpowering the delicate balance of flavors. Remember, the dressing will develop more flavor after resting for a few minutes, so don’t over-season at this stage.

Step 6: Serve or Store

Transfer the dressing into an airtight container or jar with a lid. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Shake or stir well before each use, as ingredients may settle or separate over time.

Preparation Tips

• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs such as tarragon, basil, or dill for a personalized touch.
• Anchovy Substitute: For a vegetarian version, omit the anchovy fillets or substitute with a teaspoon of miso paste for umami richness.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use vegan mayonnaise and sour cream alternatives, and omit anchovies or replace with a plant-based umami enhancer.
• Herb Prep: Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemon before juicing for an extra burst of citrus aroma.
• Chopping Herbs: Use a sharp chef’s knife to chop herbs finely; a gentle rocking motion helps achieve uniform pieces.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Make Ahead: Prepare this dressing a day in advance to allow flavors to deepen. Shake or stir well before serving.
• Herb Freshness: Use freshly picked herbs for optimal flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch but will lack vibrancy.
• Texture Variations: For a chunkier dressing, leave some herbs or anchovies in small pieces. For a smoother consistency, blend the ingredients briefly in a food processor.
• Serving Ideas: Drizzle over crisp romaine, mixed greens, or even use as a dip for vegetables and chips.
• Adjusting Thickness: Add more mayonnaise or sour cream if a thicker dressing is desired, or thin with a splash of water or lemon juice.

Add-ons and Variations

• Cheese: Grated Parmesan or crumbled feta can add an extra savory note.
• Spice: Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
• Sweetness: A tiny drizzle of honey or maple syrup can balance acidity if desired.
• Additional Herbs: Mint, tarragon, or dill can be added for more complex herbal profiles.

Side Dishes

• Grilled chicken or fish topped with this dressing
• Fresh vegetable crudités as a dip
• Mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions
• Roasted vegetables drizzled with Green Goddess dressing
• Wraps or sandwiches with crisp lettuce and sliced meats

Improvements

• Use homemade mayonnaise for a more natural approach.
• Add a small amount of finely grated lemon zest for extra citrus aroma.
• Introduce a splash of olive oil to enrich the texture and flavor.
• Experiment with different fresh herbs seasonally available for a unique twist each time.

Save and Store

Keep your Green Goddess Salad Dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, stir or shake well before each use to reincorporate any separated ingredients. The dressing can also be frozen for longer storage—simply transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then stir thoroughly before serving.

FAQ

Can I make this dressing vegan?

Yes, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and sour cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut or almond-based yogurt. Omit anchovies or replace with a vegan umami enhancer like miso paste. Be aware that flavor profiles may vary slightly.

Can I customize the herbs?

Absolutely. Feel free to experiment with herbs like tarragon, basil, dill, or cilantro to match your taste preferences or to match specific dishes.

Is this dressing suitable for people with fish allergies?

No, due to the anchovy fillets, this dressing is not suitable for fish allergy sufferers. Substitute with vegetarian-friendly umami sources if needed.

How do I make this dressing thicker or thinner?

Adjust the consistency by adding more mayonnaise or sour cream for thickness, or a splash of water, lemon juice, or vinegar for thinning.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Dried herbs can be used but will have a less vibrant flavor. Use about one-third of the amount called for fresh herbs for the same flavor impact.

Conclusion

This Green Goddess Salad Dressing is a versatile, flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire. Its rich history, combined with the bright freshness of herbs and the umami depth from anchovies, makes it a delightful accompaniment for salads, vegetables, and even seafood dishes. Making it at home ensures freshness, control over ingredients, and the satisfaction of creating a timeless classic from scratch. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a home cook seeking a quick, delicious dressing, this recipe from Love With Recipes offers a perfect blend of tradition and flavor innovation that will elevate your meals and impress your guests. Remember, the key to an exceptional dressing lies in the freshness of your ingredients and your personal touch in seasoning and herbs—so feel free to experiment and make it your own.

References

• Joy of Cooking, 75th Anniversary Edition
• Historical culinary archives on American salad dressings