Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Herbaceous Flavor: The dressing is packed with fresh herbs, providing a burst of flavor in every bite.
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Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with vegetables and healthy fats, it’s both satisfying and nourishing.
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Versatile: Perfect as a side dish or a light main course.
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Quick and Easy: Assemble in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
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Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary Ingredients
For the Salad:
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1 head of green leaf lettuce, chopped (4–5 cups)
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½ cup diced green pepper
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1 cup diced English cucumber
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½ cup halved cherry tomatoes
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⅓ cup diced red onion
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¼ cup unsalted sunflower seeds
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1 avocado,
For the Dressing:
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1 cup plain Greek yogurt
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3 tablespoons lemon juice
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2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon pure honey
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½ teaspoon fine salt
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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1½ cups fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, chives, basil, tarragon, and/or dill)
Directions
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small food processor or blender, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, garlic powder, and fresh herbs. Blend until smooth.
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Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, diced green pepper, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, sunflower seeds, and sliced avocado.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
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Serve: Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
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Add Protein: Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
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Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for added heat.
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Herb Swap: Replace cilantro with fresh dill, parsley, or basil for a different flavor profile.
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Cheese Addition: Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese on top for added creaminess.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Note that the avocado may brown slightly over time.
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Meal Prep: Assemble the salad without the dressing and store in separate containers. Add dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
Yes, but you may want to peel and seed regular cucumbers to reduce bitterness and excess moisture.
How can I prevent the avocado from browning?
Tossing the avocado with lemon juice immediately after cutting helps prevent browning.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this salad is naturally vegan.
Can I add nuts or seeds to this salad?
Absolutely! Adding toasted sunflower seeds or chopped almonds can provide a delightful crunch.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, though the avocado may brown slightly.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the salad just before serving to prevent the avocado from browning.
Can I use lemon juice instead of lime juice?
Yes, lemon juice can be used as a substitute for lime juice.
What can I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as a topping for tacos or grain bowls.
Conclusion
Green Goddess Salad offers a delightful combination of fresh, crisp vegetables and a creamy, herb-infused dressing. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a perfect addition to any meal, whether as a side dish or a light main course. With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe
