We’ve always been fans of fresh, vibrant salads that pack a punch of flavor and nutrition, and the Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad tops our list. Originating from classic American cuisine, this dish combines crisp greens, herbs, and a creamy avocado-based dressing for a refreshing twist that’s perfect for healthy eating.
In our kitchen, we’ve simplified this popular Sweetgreen favorite so you can whip it up at home. It’s not just tasty—it’s a nutrient-dense option that keeps us coming back for more.
Ingredients
In our exploration of the Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad, we focus on the fresh, vibrant ingredients that make this dish a nutritious staple. Drawing from its classic American roots, this simplified home version highlights crisp greens, aromatic herbs, and a creamy avocado-based dressing to deliver a burst of flavors and health benefits.
We organize the ingredients below in the order they are typically used—starting with the salad base, followed by additions, and ending with the dressing components. This ensures seamless preparation while emphasizing key elements like fresh herbs and nutrient-dense veggies for an authentic, easy-to-make experience.
Salad Base Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens (such as kale, arugula, and romaine; washed and roughly chopped for crisp texture and volume)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves (whole or torn; provides a peppery, aromatic base that infuses the salad with herbal brightness)
- 1 medium cucumber (sliced into thin rounds; adds a refreshing crunch and hydration to balance the greens)
Additional Toppings
- 1 ripe avocado (diced; selected for its creamy consistency, which is essential for both texture and the dressing)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved; offers a juicy, sweet-tart contrast to the earthy greens)
- 1/4 cup green onions (finely chopped; introduces a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall freshness)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat for creaminess; serves as the tangy foundation for our homemade dressing)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra-virgin preferred; whisked in for a smooth, heart-healthy emulsion)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed; provides acidity to brighten the flavors and preserve the herbs)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced; adds a pungent, savory depth that ties the dressing together)
- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon (chopped; its licorice-like notes are a signature touch for authentic Green Goddess essence)
For nutritional highlights, we compiled the approximate values per serving (based on a 2-serving recipe) in the table below to showcase why this salad is a smart, health-focused choice:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Protein | 12g | 24% |
| Fiber | 8g | 29% |
| Vitamin C | 45mg | 50% |
| Healthy Fats | 20g | 26% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. These estimates help underscore the salad’s role in balanced eating.
With these ingredients, we’re set to craft a salad that’s not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and flavors—let’s move on to bringing it all together in the next section.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad together seamlessly, we rely on a few essential tools that make preparation efficient and enjoyable. These items help us handle the fresh ingredients from the previous section with precision and ease, ensuring a vibrant, nutrient-packed result.
Here’s a list of the key equipment we recommend, organized by their typical order of use in the recipe:
- Large Mixing Bowl: We use this sturdy bowl to combine our mixed greens, basil, and other base ingredients, allowing for even tossing without bruising the delicate leaves.
- *Cutting Board and Sharp Chef’s Knife: A solid cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife is crucial for chopping cucumber, green onions, and cherry tomatoes into uniform pieces, promoting safety and speed in prep.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: These precise tools ensure accurate measurements of ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, and Greek yogurt, helping us achieve the perfect balance in our creamy dressing.
- Blender or Food Processor: For blending the avocado-based dressing smoothly, we opt for a high-speed blender or food processor to incorporate garlic, tarragon, and other elements into a luscious, herbaceous mix.
- Salad Spinner: If our greens need a quick dry, this tool removes excess moisture effectively, keeping the salad crisp and preventing a watery dressing.
With these tools at hand, we’re fully equipped to transform our ingredients into a refreshing, health-boosting salad that captures the essence of Sweetgreen’s signature dish.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create our vibrant Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad. Follow these instructions to achieve a crisp, flavorful dish packed with nutrients.
Prep the Vegetables
Begin by preparing the vegetables to ensure they are fresh and ready for assembly. First, rinse 4 cups of mixed greens under cold water to remove any grit, then spin them dry in the salad spinner for a satisfying crunch that enhances the salad’s texture. Next, chop 1 large cucumber into thin slices, yielding about 1 cup, to add a cool, refreshing bite.
Slice 1 ripe avocado into cubes—aim for 1 cup—to release its creamy, buttery essence that complements the greens. Halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes for a burst of juicy sweetness. Finally, finely chop ¼ cup of fresh basil and 2 green onions to infuse aromatic, herbaceous notes that elevate the salad’s overall flavor profile.
Make the Green Goddess Dressing
Start crafting the creamy, herbaceous dressing that defines our Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad. In a blender or food processor, combine ½ cup Greek yogurt, ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 clove garlic (minced), and 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves.
Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until the mixture achieves a smooth, vibrant green consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt if needed, creating a tangy, velvety dressing that brings out the fresh, earthy flavors of the herbs and ties the salad together.
Assemble the Salad
Layer the prepared elements into a large mixing bowl to build our nutrient-rich Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad. Add the prepped mixed greens, cucumber slices, avocado cubes, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped basil, and green onions, then drizzle with the Green Goddess dressing—use about ½ cup for a light coating.
Toss gently with salad tongs until every ingredient is evenly coated, allowing the crisp greens to mingle with the creamy dressing for a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Serve immediately to preserve the fresh crunch and vibrant colors, making this salad a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Make-Ahead Tips
To keep our Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad fresh and vibrant, we often prepare components in advance without compromising texture or flavor. This approach saves time on busy days while preserving the salad’s crisp greens and creamy dressing. Let’s break down the best strategies for make-ahead preparation.
Preparing the Dressing Ahead
We recommend making the Green Goddess dressing up to 3 days in advance for maximum convenience. Simply blend the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and tarragon as outlined in our earlier steps, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake well before using to maintain its smooth, herbaceous consistency. This not only enhances flavors as they meld but also cuts down assembly time when you’re ready to eat.
Prepping Vegetables and Toppings
For the salad base, we suggest washing and chopping vegetables a day ahead to streamline your routine. Here’s how:
- Mixed greens and herbs: Rinse and spin-dry the mixed greens, basil, and green onions, then store them in a salad spinner or a paper towel-lined container in the fridge. This keeps them crisp for up to 24 hours and prevents wilting.
- Cucumber and cherry tomatoes: Slice the cucumber and halve the cherry tomatoes, placing them in separate sealed containers. They hold up well for 1-2 days, but avoid combining with other ingredients to prevent excess moisture.
- Avocado: Cube the avocado just before serving to avoid browning, or if preparing early, toss it with a squeeze of lemon juice and store in an airtight container for up to 6 hours. We find this minimizes oxidation while retaining its creamy texture.
Storage and Reassembly Guidelines
To ensure optimal freshness, store each component separately in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. For reference, here’s a quick overview of make-ahead timelines in a markdown table:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Dressing | Up to 3 days | Airtight container; shake before use |
| Mixed greens & herbs | Up to 24 hours | Paper towel-lined for crispness |
| Cucumber & tomatoes | 1-2 days | Sealed containers to avoid sogginess |
| Avocado | Up to 6 hours | With lemon juice to prevent browning |
When it’s time to assemble, we advise combining everything just before serving to maintain the salad’s crisp, nutrient-packed appeal. This method not only boosts efficiency but also ensures our Sweetgreen-inspired dish remains a healthy, flavorful staple in your routine.
Conclusion
We’ve loved diving into this Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad recipe and sharing how it brings fresh flavors to your table. It’s a simple way to boost your daily nutrition without sacrificing taste.
By trying this at home you’ll discover a go-to meal that’s as versatile as it’s healthy. Let’s make eating well an easy part of our routine – give it a whirl and see the difference for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad?
The Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad is a nutritious dish featuring crisp mixed greens, fresh herbs like basil and tarragon, and a creamy avocado-based dressing. It’s inspired by classic American cuisine, offering a healthy, flavorful option that’s easy to make at home. This salad emphasizes fresh ingredients for a vibrant, nutrient-dense meal.
What are the main ingredients in the Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad?
The salad includes a base of mixed greens, basil, cucumber, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and green onions. The dressing features Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh tarragon. These ingredients provide a balance of flavors and nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for healthy eating.
How do I make the Green Goddess dressing?
To make the dressing, blend Greek yogurt, avocado, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh tarragon until smooth. This simple process takes just a few minutes and results in a creamy, herbaceous topping. Store it in an airtight container for up to three days to keep it fresh.
What equipment is needed to prepare this salad?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl for tossing, a cutting board and sharp chef’s knife for chopping veggies, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a blender or food processor for the dressing, and a salad spinner for washing greens. These tools help make preparation efficient and straightforward.
What are the health benefits of the Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad?
This salad is packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein from ingredients like greens, avocado, and Greek yogurt. It’s low in calories, promoting heart health and digestion, while offering antioxidants from herbs and tomatoes. Enjoy it as a smart, nutrient-dense option for balanced meals.
Can I make the Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dressing up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container. Wash and chop vegetables like greens and cucumbers a day ahead, keeping them separate to maintain crispness. Assemble just before serving to preserve texture and nutrients, ideal for busy schedules.