Green Goddess
This vibrant and versatile Green Goddess Dressing is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition, perfect for elevating any meal.
Packed with fresh basil, spinach, zesty lemon juice, and creamy cashews, this dressing brings a rich, herby, and slightly tangy flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Each ingredient, from the fresh herbs to the raw nuts, is selected for its nutritional benefits—think antioxidants, healthy fats, and plant-based protein.
While this dressing is ideal for salads, it’s equally delicious as a dip for veggies, a sauce for roasted or grilled vegetables. This nutrient-rich dressing is balanced perfectly with the slight sweetness of rice vinegar and the umami of nutritional yeast, making it not only delicious but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
It's a versatile, guilt-free addition to your kitchen that brings both flavor and wellness to the table!
Ingredients:
Juice of 2 lemons
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic
A few green onions
Some chives
1/4 cup raw cashews
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1 cup spinach
1/3 cup nutritional yeast
Salt to taste
Optional additions: 1 shallot, fresh dill
Base:
1/2 large cabbage, shredded
1.5 large cucumbers, sliced
2 jalapeños, sliced
A bunch of green onions, chopped
Additional Serving Suggestions:
Kale (as an alternative base)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dressing:
In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, green onions, chives, cashews, basil, spinach, and nutritional yeast.
Add salt to taste, along with the optional shallot and dill if desired.
Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Adjust consistency by adding a splash of water if it's too thick.
Assemble the Base:
In a large bowl, mix the shredded cabbage, sliced cucumbers, jalapeños, and chopped green onions. Alternatively, use kale as the base for added greens and texture.
Massage the kale with a little lemon juice or olive oil if using, to soften it before mixing in the other ingredients.
Combine and Serve:
Drizzle the Green Goddess Dressing generously over the prepared base. Toss until the vegetables are well coated with the dressing.
Serve as a fresh, vibrant salad or alongside baked salmon for a complete meal.
Enjoy!
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This dressing can be used as a dip, spread, or topping for various dishes, so get creative!
Health Benefits:
Lemon Juice: Rich in vitamin C, lemons boost immune health, aid digestion, and provide antioxidants that can help rejuvenate skin and fight inflammation.
Olive Oil: A heart-healthy source of monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil supports cardiovascular health and can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Rice Vinegar: Mild in flavor and lower in acidity, rice vinegar can aid digestion, balance pH, and provide a unique tanginess to the dressing without overwhelming the other flavors.
Garlic: Packed with immune-boosting properties and antioxidants, garlic has been shown to reduce blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and act as a natural antibiotic.
Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor and are high in vitamins A and C, which are beneficial for immune support and eye health.
Chives: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, chives add a delicate, fresh taste and contain antioxidants that may help protect against chronic disease.
Raw Cashews: A creamy, dairy-free alternative, cashews are rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium, copper, and manganese, which promote bone health and energy production.
Basil: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, basil also contains vitamins A, K, and C, which contribute to skin health, bone strength, and immune function.
Spinach: A powerhouse of nutrients, spinach is packed with iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and K. It's great for energy, bone health, and immune support.
Nutritional Yeast: This cheesy-tasting ingredient is rich in B vitamins, particularly B12, and provides plant-based protein. It’s a favorite among vegans for its flavor and nutrient profile.
Salt: In small amounts, salt is essential for fluid balance, muscle function, and nerve transmission. It enhances flavors and helps bring out the natural tastes of the other ingredients.
Shallot: Adds a subtle sweetness and a mild onion flavor, plus it contains sulfur compounds that may support heart health.
Dill: Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, dill also adds a refreshing taste and supports digestion.
Cabbage: High in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, cabbage promotes gut health, improves digestion, and has anti-inflammatory effects.
Cucumber: Hydrating and low in calories, cucumbers are rich in vitamins K and C, plus antioxidants. They support skin health, hydration, and detoxification.
Jalapeños: These spicy peppers add flavor along with capsaicin, which may aid metabolism, provide antioxidants, and have anti-inflammatory effects.
Green Onions: See above for benefits, as green onions are used in both the dressing and the base.
Kale: A nutrient-dense leafy green, kale is high in vitamins A, C, and K, and contains calcium, fiber, and powerful antioxidants. It's beneficial for eye health, immune support, and heart health.
