It’s no trick to fix this time-honored dressing at home with this quick recipe. Made with fresh ingredients, it’s excellent—and a real treat compared to store-bought versions.
Green Goddess Salad Dressing is a vibrant and flavorful dressing that adds a fresh and herbaceous twist to any salad. Its vibrant green color and creamy texture make it visually appealing, while its combination of herbs and tangy ingredients deliver a burst of flavor. This classic dressing is versatile and can be used on a variety of salads or as a dip for vegetables.
The origins of Green Goddess Salad Dressing can be traced back to the early 20th century. The dressing is said to have been created in the 1920s at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco, California. The hotel’s executive chef, Philip Roemer, developed the recipe to honor the hit play “The Green Goddess” that was being performed at the time.
Green Goddess Salad Dressing gained popularity quickly and became a beloved dressing in American cuisine. Its distinctive green color and unique combination of ingredients set it apart from other dressings of the time. The dressing was initially made with a base of mayonnaise and sour cream or buttermilk, giving it a rich and creamy consistency.
The key ingredients in Green Goddess Salad Dressing are fresh herbs such as parsley, tarragon, and chives, which contribute to its vibrant green color and add a fresh and aromatic flavor profile. Anchovy fillets, garlic, lemon juice, and vinegar are often included to provide a tangy and savory kick to the dressing.
Over time, variations of Green Goddess Salad Dressing have emerged, with some recipes incorporating additional ingredients like avocado or yogurt for a creamier texture. However, the essence of the dressing remains rooted in its herbaceous and tangy characteristics.
Green Goddess Salad Dressing became especially popular during the height of the “California Cuisine” movement in the 1970s. Its light and refreshing qualities made it a perfect accompaniment to the emphasis on fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients that defined California cuisine.
Today, Green Goddess Salad Dressing continues to be a favorite dressing for salads, sandwiches, and as a dip for vegetables. Its vibrant color and fresh flavors make it a standout choice, adding a burst of herb-infused deliciousness to any dish.
Whether enjoyed in a classic form or with a modern twist, Green Goddess Salad Dressing remains a beloved dressing that celebrates the beauty of fresh herbs and adds a delightful zing to salads and other culinary creations.
PREP/TOTAL TIME: 10 MIN.
MAKES: 2 CUPS
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup chopped green pepper
- ¼ cup packed fresh parsley sprigs
- 3 anchovy fillets
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 green onion tops, coarsely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, peeled
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
INSTRUCTIONS
- Place all ingredients in a blender; cover and process until smooth.
- Transfer to a bowl or jar; cover and store in the refrigerator



