Green Goddess Salad

The Viral Green Goddess Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and healthy dish featuring crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and green onions, all tossed in a creamy, zesty green goddess dressing. This dressing is a blend of pine nuts, basil, lime, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich, flavorful coating for the salad. Perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish, this salad is as delicious as it is nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Green Goddess Salad is packed with fresh, bright flavors that are perfectly balanced with the creamy richness of the dressing. The dressing is the star, blending nutty pine nuts, aromatic basil, and tangy lime juice with a touch of heat from the jalapeño. It’s incredibly easy to make in just 10 minutes, and the salad itself is light yet satisfying, making it perfect for anyone looking for a fresh, healthy meal.

Ingredients

For the Green Goddess Dressing:
¼ cup pine nuts
½ cup fresh basil
1 small shallot
½ jalapeño, seeded for less spice
2 garlic cloves
2 tablespoons vinegar
2 tablespoons green onion, chopped
2 limes, squeezed
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

For the Salad:
1 head leafy lettuce, chopped into strips
2 large cucumbers, diced
6 green onions, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Dressing:

1. In a food processor, combine the pine nuts, basil, shallot, jalapeño, garlic, and chopped green onions.

2. Add lime juice, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and Parmesan cheese.

3. Pulse until smooth and well combined, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.

Prepare the Salad:

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped lettuce, diced cucumbers, and green onions.

Toss and Serve:

1. Pour the green goddess dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine and coat everything with the dressing.

2. Serve immediately for a vibrant and refreshing salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Top the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for extra protein.

• Spicy version: For a spicier dressing, increase the amount of jalapeño or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

• Make it vegan: Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative for a vegan-friendly option.

• Add more veggies: Add cherry tomatoes, avocado, or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The salad itself is best served immediately, but you can refrigerate the ingredients separately for later use.

• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you plan to have leftovers, store the dressing and salad components separately to keep the salad crisp.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut instead of pine nuts?

Yes, you can substitute pine nuts with cashews, almonds, or walnuts, depending on your preference.

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just give it a good stir before using.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, as long as the Parmesan cheese you use is gluten-free (which most are).

How can I make this salad spicier?

To increase the heat, add more jalapeño, or you can even include some chopped fresh chili peppers in the dressing.

Can I use bottled lime juice for the dressing?

While fresh lime juice is preferred for the best flavor, bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.

What other greens can I use for the salad?

In place of leafy lettuce, you can use arugula, spinach, or mixed greens for a different flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Viral Green Goddess Salad is an easy and healthy dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors. The creamy, tangy dressing ties everything together, making it a standout side or main dish. Quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion, it’s a refreshing addition to your meal rotation that everyone will love!

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