Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Green Goddess Salad is not only visually stunning but also packed with health benefits. The combination of kale, napa cabbage, and red cabbage provides a range of vitamins and antioxidants, while the creamy avocado and crunchy peppers add texture and richness. The homemade Green Goddess dressing made with spinach, basil, and Parmesan is fresh, flavorful, and creamy without being overly heavy. It’s a perfect balance of fresh veggies, wholesome ingredients, and vibrant flavors that make it a standout on any table.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

1 cup rainbow kale, chopped
2 cups napa cabbage, chopped
1 cup red cabbage, chopped
1 red onion, thinly sliced
2 cucumbers, sliced
5 sweet peppers, sliced
1 avocado, sliced

For the Dressing:

2 cups baby spinach
1/2 cup basil leaves
1 small shallot
3 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon cashews
1/3 cup grated Parmesan
1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
1/2 lemon, juiced (about 1 tablespoon)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped rainbow kale, napa cabbage, red cabbage, red onion, sliced cucumbers, sweet peppers, and avocado. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
Make the Dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine the spinach, basil leaves, shallot, garlic, cashews, Parmesan, black pepper, and salt. Add the olive oil, rice wine vinegar, and lemon juice. Blend until the dressing is smooth and creamy. You can adjust the seasoning or consistency by adding more salt, pepper, or a splash of water if needed.
Toss and Serve: Pour the Green Goddess dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Vegan Version: To make this salad vegan, omit the Parmesan and replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy, plant-based alternative.
Grilled Chicken: Add grilled chicken or any protein of your choice for a heartier meal.
Extra Crunch: Top the salad with nuts or seeds such as sunflower seeds or walnuts for added crunch.
Herb Variations: Try using different herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill in the dressing for unique flavors.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This salad is best served fresh, but you can store leftover salad (without the dressing) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Storage for Dressing: The dressing can be stored separately in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. If it thickens, you can thin it with a little water or olive oil.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dressing up to 4-5 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Can I add different vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as shredded carrots, radishes, or tomatoes, to suit your taste.

Can I use a store-bought dressing instead?

While homemade dressing is always the best for fresh flavors, you can substitute with a store-bought Green Goddess dressing if you’re short on time.

How can I make the salad more filling?

To make the salad more substantial, add a protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu. You can also add quinoa or couscous for extra texture and nutrients.

Can I use other types of cabbage in the salad?

Yes, you can swap out napa or red cabbage for other varieties like green cabbage or savoy cabbage, depending on what you have on hand.

How do I make the salad spicier?

To add some heat, try incorporating jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the dressing, or sprinkle some chili flakes on top of the salad.

Can I use a different nut in the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute cashews with almonds, walnuts, or even pine nuts for a different flavor profile in the dressing.

Can I use a different type of oil for the dressing?

While olive oil works best for this dressing, you can try avocado oil or sunflower oil as alternatives.

Can I serve this salad as a main dish?

Yes, this salad can easily be served as a main dish by adding protein or grains like quinoa, farro, or rice.

Can I freeze the dressing?

It’s not recommended to freeze the dressing, as the texture may change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.

Conclusion

The Green Goddess Salad is the ultimate vibrant and refreshing dish, packed with nutritious vegetables and topped with a creamy, herb-packed dressing. Perfect as a side or a light main course, it’s a versatile and delicious option for any occasion. With its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen for healthy and satisfying meals.