Sweetgreen’s Green Goddess Salad has become a favorite for anyone craving a fresh and vibrant meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. This salad combines crisp greens with creamy avocado and a tangy, herb-packed dressing that brings every bite to life. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a wholesome lunch or a light dinner without sacrificing flavor.
We love how easy it is to make this salad at home using simple ingredients that come together quickly. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a healthy option on the go, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of texture and taste. Let’s dive into how to recreate this iconic salad in your own kitchen and enjoy a burst of green goodness anytime.
Ingredients
To create our vibrant Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad, we gather fresh, wholesome ingredients that bring crisp texture and bright flavors. Below are the essential components divided between the salad base and the signature Green Goddess dressing.
Salad Ingredients
- Mixed baby greens (4 cups) – a blend of arugula, spinach, and baby kale for varied texture
- Romaine lettuce (2 cups) – chopped for crunch
- Avocado (1 ripe) – diced for creamy richness
- English cucumber (1 medium) – sliced thin for refreshing crispness
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup) – halved for juicy bursts
- Green onions (2 stalks) – thinly sliced for mild sharpness
- Sugar snap peas (1/2 cup) – trimmed and sliced
- Fresh tarragon leaves (2 tablespoons) – finely chopped for aromatic herb note
- Chives (1 tablespoon) – chopped to enhance freshness
- Sea salt (to taste) – for seasoning
Green Goddess Dressing Ingredients
The Green Goddess dressing is what defines this salad, blending herbs and creamy elements perfectly.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh parsley | 1/4 cup | chopped |
| Fresh chives | 2 tablespoons | chopped |
| Fresh tarragon | 1 tablespoon | chopped |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons | freshly squeezed |
| Garlic clove | 1 | minced |
| Avocado | 1/2 | ripe, mashed |
| Greek yogurt | 1/4 cup | plain, adds creaminess |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons | extra virgin |
| White wine vinegar | 1 tablespoon | adds tang |
| Sea salt | 1/2 teaspoon | to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | freshly ground |
Together these ingredients create a fresh, herbaceous, and creamy dressing that perfectly complements our crisp salad greens.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad flawlessly at home, having the right equipment is essential for efficiency and precision. Below is a detailed list of tools we recommend using to ensure every ingredient is handled with care and each component is perfectly combined.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chef’s Knife | For chopping greens, herbs, cucumber, and tomatoes precisely |
| Cutting Board | A clean, sturdy surface to prepare all produce |
| Mixing Bowls | Separate bowls for greens and mixing the dressing |
| Blender or Food Processor | To emulsify the Green Goddess dressing smoothly |
| Measuring Spoons | For accurate measurement of herbs, oil, and seasonings |
| Citrus Juicer | To extract fresh lemon juice cleanly and efficiently |
| Salad Spinner | To dry washed greens quickly preventing sogginess |
| Serving Bowl | A large bowl to toss and serve the salad |
| Spatula or Whisk | To combine dressing ingredients thoroughly |
We find that using a blender or food processor is key to achieving the signature creamy and herbaceous texture of the Green Goddess dressing. Likewise, a salad spinner ensures the greens stay crisp and fresh without excess water diluting the flavors.
Having these tools ready will streamline the preparation and help us enjoy a beautifully presented, vibrant salad every time.
Prep Work
To create the perfect Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad, careful preparation of each ingredient is essential. The freshness and texture of the vegetables combined with the creamy, herbaceous dressing make all the difference in the final dish.
Preparing the Vegetables
We start by washing all the greens thoroughly in a salad spinner to remove any grit and ensure crispness. Use a mix of baby greens and romaine lettuce for a vibrant base. Then:
- Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the cucumber thinly, retaining the skin for added crunch and color.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes to release their juicy sweetness.
- Trim and halve the sugar snap peas to maintain their snap and fresh flavor.
- Thinly slice the green onions, separating the white and green parts for balanced flavor.
- Dice the avocado just before assembling to prevent browning and keep it creamy.
For the fresh herbs, chop the tarragon and chives finely to maximize their aromatic presence in the salad. Keeping the vegetables well-prepped ensures each bite delivers the signature Sweetgreen freshness and texture.
Making the Green Goddess Dressing
The Green Goddess dressing is the heart of this salad, delivering a bright and creamy herbaceous experience. We combine fresh herbs, creamy avocado, and Greek yogurt for richness with lively acidity from lemon and vinegar. Follow these steps:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Fresh parsley | ¼ cup, chopped |
| Fresh chives | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
| Fresh tarragon | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Mashed avocado | ½ medium fruit |
| Greek yogurt | ¼ cup |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| White wine vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Sea salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
Instructions:
- Place parsley, chives, tarragon, garlic, lemon juice, and white wine vinegar in a blender or food processor.
- Add mashed avocado and Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Slowly stream in olive oil while blending to emulsify the dressing.
- Season with sea salt and black pepper.
- Blend until smooth and vibrant green.
This dressing captures the essence of Sweetgreen’s Green Goddess Salad with its lush texture and bold herbal notes, making it the perfect complement to our freshly prepped vegetables.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to recreate the vibrant and herbaceous Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad in your own kitchen. Precision and freshness are key to capturing the signature flavor and texture.
Assembling the Salad
- Wash and dry the greens thoroughly using a salad spinner to ensure crispness.
- Chop 2 cups of romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine the romaine with 3 cups of mixed baby greens in a large serving bowl.
- Slice ½ cup of sugar snap peas diagonally for added crunch.
- Dice ½ of a medium cucumber into small cubes.
- Halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes to release their sweet juice without sogginess.
- Thinly slice 2 green onions for a subtle sharpness.
- Coarsely chop 2 tablespoons each of fresh tarragon and chives to infuse fresh herbaceous notes.
- Cube 1 ripe avocado carefully to add creaminess without mashing.
Place all the prepared vegetables and herbs gently on the greens, distributing them evenly. This layering ensures every bite bursts with texture and flavor.
Tossing the Salad with Dressing
- Prepare the Green Goddess dressing as per the recipe—blend together:
- ½ cup fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chives
- 1 tablespoon tarragon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 mashed avocado
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Fresh parsley | ½ cup |
| Chives | 2 tablespoons |
| Tarragon | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon juice | Juice of 1 lemon |
| Garlic clove | 1 clove |
| Mashed avocado | 1 medium |
| Greek yogurt | ½ cup |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| White wine vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Sea salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
- Pour ½ to ¾ cup of the dressing over the assembled salad.
- Using clean, large salad tongs or two spatulas, toss the salad gently but thoroughly. Make sure the dressing coats every leaf and vegetable piece evenly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice if desired.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh crispness, creamy avocado, and vibrant herb flavor at their peak.
Serving Suggestions
To enjoy the Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad at its best, we recommend serving it immediately after tossing with the dressing. This preserves the crispness of the greens and the creamy texture of the avocado. Here are our top serving tips to elevate your salad experience:
Presentation and Pairings
- Serve in a large shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
- Garnish with extra chopped chives or tarragon for a burst of fresh aroma.
- For added texture, sprinkle toasted nuts like almonds or pumpkin seeds on top.
- Pair the salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a complete protein boost.
- Complement with a side of crusty whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal.
Salad Tossing and Serving
- Toss the salad gently with the Green Goddess dressing using a large spatula or salad tongs to ensure an even coating without bruising delicate greens.
- If you prefer a lighter dressing, serve additional dressing on the side for guests to add as desired.
- Adjust seasoning with a pinch of sea salt or a grind of fresh black pepper just before serving to enhance flavors.
Storage Tips
| Item | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salad greens | Refrigerate in an airtight container | Up to 1 day | Keep dry to avoid wilting |
| Green Goddess dressing | Store in a sealed jar in fridge | Up to 3 days | Stir before use to recombine ingredients |
| Assembled salad | Not recommended | N/A | Salad loses crispness once dressed |
We encourage enjoying the Green Goddess Salad fresh for the optimal blend of herbaceous vibrancy and textural contrast. For gatherings, prep components in advance and assemble just before serving to maintain its signature freshness.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
For the best experience with our Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad Recipe, proper storage and make-ahead planning are essential. Here’s how we keep the salad fresh, vibrant, and ready to enjoy whenever we want:
Storing Salad Ingredients Separately
- Greens and vegetables: Wash and thoroughly dry all salad greens and vegetables before storage. Use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture, which helps prevent wilting.
- Store the greens and chopped vegetables in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb any moisture. This keeps them crisp for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Avocado: Keep avocado slices separate. To prevent browning, lightly coat them with fresh lemon juice and store in an airtight container.
Storing the Green Goddess Dressing
- Transfer the dressing into a clean glass jar or airtight container.
- Refrigerate immediately. The dressing stays fresh for up to 5 days, maintaining its creamy texture and vibrant herb flavor.
- Before using, give the dressing a quick shake or stir to recombine any separated ingredients.
Assembled Salad Storage
- We recommend assembling the salad just before serving to maintain the crisp texture and creamy avocado.
- If you must prepare the salad earlier, keep the greens and dressing separate and toss them together within 30 minutes before eating.
- Assembled salads stored in the refrigerator typically become soggy after 2 hours and lose freshness.
| Item | Storage Method | Refrigeration Life |
|---|---|---|
| Salad greens and veggies | Airtight container with paper towel | Up to 3 days |
| Avocado slices | Airtight container with lemon juice | Up to 1 day |
| Green Goddess dressing | Glass jar or airtight container | Up to 5 days |
| Assembled salad | Toss just before serving | Up to 2 hours |
Make-Ahead Preparation Steps
- Prep all vegetables and herbs: Chop and wash them thoroughly. Dry well and store as directed.
- Make the Green Goddess dressing: Blend up the dressing and refrigerate.
- Prepare avocado last: Keep it separate until just before serving.
- When ready to serve, combine the greens, vegetables, and dressing; toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
“Separating the dressing and salad components is the key to keeping our Sweetgreen Green Goddess Salad bright and fresh, just like the day we made it.”
Following these tips helps us enjoy the salad’s signature fresh crispness, creamy avocado, and herbaceous zing at every meal.
Conclusion
Making Sweetgreen’s Green Goddess Salad at home is a rewarding way to enjoy a fresh and flavorful meal anytime. With the right ingredients and careful preparation, we can easily capture the vibrant taste and creamy texture that make this salad so popular.
By following the tips for storage and assembly, we ensure every bite stays crisp and delicious. Whether for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad offers a perfect balance of nutrition and taste that fits seamlessly into our healthy lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Sweetgreen’s Green Goddess Salad?
The salad includes baby greens, romaine lettuce, avocado, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, green onions, sugar snap peas, and fresh herbs like tarragon and chives.
What goes into the Green Goddess dressing?
The dressing is made with parsley, chives, tarragon, lemon juice, garlic, mashed avocado, Greek yogurt, olive oil, white wine vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper.
What kitchen tools do I need to prepare this salad?
You’ll need a chef’s knife, cutting board, mixing bowls, blender or food processor, measuring spoons, citrus juicer, salad spinner, serving bowl, and a spatula or whisk.
How should I prepare the vegetables and herbs for the salad?
Wash and dry greens thoroughly, chop romaine, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, sugar snap peas, green onions, and avocado. Chop fresh herbs finely to enhance flavor.
How do I assemble the Green Goddess Salad?
Layer the washed and chopped greens and vegetables in a large bowl. Toss with the dressing evenly and garnish with extra herbs or toasted nuts before serving.
Can I store the salad after assembling it?
It’s best to enjoy the assembled salad immediately. If needed, store greens and dressing separately; the salad should be eaten within two hours for optimal freshness.
How do I keep avocado from browning in the salad?
Coat avocado slices with lemon juice to prevent browning when storing before assembling the salad.
How long does the Green Goddess dressing last in the fridge?
The dressing can be kept in a sealed glass jar for up to five days.
What are some serving suggestions for this salad?
Serve it fresh in a large shallow bowl, garnished with herbs or nuts. It pairs well with grilled protein or crusty whole-grain bread.
Is this salad suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, by storing ingredients separately and assembling just before eating, you can enjoy a fresh, flavorful salad on the go or for quick meals.