Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with garden herbs, this creamy green dressing is a delicious way to brighten up everyday meals. Basil, spinach, and fresh dill blend with lemon, garlic, and walnuts for a rich, velvety dressing that's just as good drizzled over salads as it is served with roasted vegetables or grain bowls.
MAKES
8 SERVINGS (2 TABLESPOONS EACH)
QUICK RECIPE OVERVIEW
Why you’ll love it
A fresh, dairy-free dressing made with whole-food ingredients and no mayonnaise. It's a wonderful way to use fresh herbs and add flavor to salads, bowls, and vegetables.
What Makes It So Flavorful?
Sweet basil, fresh dill, garlic, and shallot create layers of garden-fresh flavor, while lemon and apple cider vinegar add brightness. Walnuts and nutritional yeast bring a creamy texture and a subtle, savory richness.
Helpful Tips
Start with less water for a thick, creamy dressing, then gradually thin to your desired consistency. For a milder garlic flavor, use just one clove and add more to taste.
Green Goddess Herb Dressing
BRIGHT · SILKY · HERBY
ABOUT 8 SERVINGS | PREP 10 MINUTES | COOK NONE
Ingredients:
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
1 cup fresh baby spinach
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 small shallot, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
¼ cup raw walnuts or cashews
⅓ cup nutritional yeast
¼ teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
¼–½ cup cold water, as needed to thin
Method:
Rinse and dry the basil, spinach, and dill. Roughly chop the shallot and garlic.
Add the basil, spinach, garlic, shallot, dill, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, walnuts or cashews, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper to a high-speed blender or food processor.
Pour in the olive oil and ¼ cup cold water. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
Adjust the consistency. Add additional water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired thickness.
Adjust the lemon juice, salt, or pepper to taste. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Recipe Notes
Walnuts or Cashews: Walnuts add a slightly earthy, nutty flavor, while cashews create a milder, creamier dressing. For the smoothest texture, soak cashews in hot water for 10–15 minutes, then drain before blending.
Fresh Herb Variations: Substitute fresh parsley or cilantro for some of the basil or spinach to create a slightly different flavor.
Nutritional Yeast: Adds a savory, slightly cheesy flavor without dairy. For a more delicate herb flavor, start with ¼ cup and increase to ⅓ cup as desired.
Adjust the Tang: For a less tangy dressing, start with 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar and add more to taste.
Serving Ideas: Delicious over chopped salads, grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, quinoa bowls, or as a creamy dip for fresh vegetables.
Make It a Dip: Use less water for a thicker consistency that's perfect for dipping vegetables or spreading on sandwiches and wraps.
Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight glass jar for up to 3–4 days. Stir or shake before serving, as the dressing may naturally thicken or separate.
