Big Green Goddess Salad

Name: Big Green Goddess Salad: Discover Its Delicious Secrets!
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed greens; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1 cup avocado, diced; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on August 31, 2025

Salad

Introduction to Big Green Goddess Salad

Welcome to the world of vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients! If you’re like me, juggling a busy schedule while trying to whip up something healthy can feel like a daunting task. That’s where the Big Green Goddess Salad comes in—a refreshing and colorful dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Perfect for a light lunch or a side at dinner, this salad is sure to impress your loved ones while keeping your meal prep stress-free. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Big Green Goddess Salad

This Big Green Goddess Salad is a lifesaver for busy days. It’s quick to make, taking just 15 minutes from start to finish. The vibrant greens and creamy dressing create a delightful explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, it’s a dish everyone will love!

Ingredients for Big Green Goddess Salad

Gathering fresh ingredients is half the fun of making the Big Green Goddess Salad! Here’s what you’ll need:

Mixed greens: A blend of your favorite greens like spinach, arugula, and romaine adds a crunchy base.
Cucumber: This cool, crisp vegetable brings a refreshing crunch to the salad.
Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado adds healthy fats and a smooth texture that balances the greens.

Green onions: These add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, enhancing the overall taste.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley not only brightens the dish but also adds a fresh, herbal note.
Fresh basil: This aromatic herb infuses the salad with a sweet, peppery flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Olive oil: A good quality olive oil serves as the base for the dressing, providing richness and depth.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a zesty brightness that lifts all the flavors.
Dijon mustard: This tangy ingredient gives the dressing a delightful kick and helps emulsify it.

Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these simple ingredients enhance the flavors of the salad.

Feel free to get creative! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch. If you want to make it heartier, consider tossing in grilled chicken or chickpeas. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing!

How to Make Big Green Goddess Salad

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making the Big Green Goddess Salad! This process is simple and quick, perfect for those busy days when you need a healthy meal in a flash. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious salad in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Greens and Vegetables

First things first, let’s wash and chop our fresh ingredients. Rinse the mixed greens under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner for a quick dry.

Next, grab your cucumber. Slice it in half lengthwise, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Now, onto the avocado! Cut it in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon. Dice it into cubes, and be careful not to mash it.

For the green onions, trim the ends and chop them into small pieces.

Finally, give the parsley and basil a good rinse, then chop them finely.

Combine all these vibrant ingredients in a large bowl, and get ready for the magic!

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, it’s time to whip up our creamy dressing. Start by pouring in the olive oil.

Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice for that zesty kick.

Then, add the Dijon mustard, which will give our dressing a delightful tang.

Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste.

Now, whisk everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. This dressing is the secret to elevating your Big Green Goddess Salad!

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Now comes the fun part! Pour the dressing over the bowl of greens and vegetables.

Using a pair of tongs or a large spoon, gently toss everything together.

Make sure all the ingredients are coated in that luscious dressing.

This step is crucial, as it brings all the flavors together, creating a harmonious blend that’s simply irresistible!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Your Big Green Goddess Salad is ready to shine! Serve it immediately for the freshest taste.

The vibrant colors and creamy dressing will make it a showstopper on your table.

Enjoy every bite, knowing you’ve created a healthy, delicious meal in just 15 minutes.

Trust me, this salad will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Tips for Success

Always wash your greens thoroughly to remove any grit or dirt.

Use ripe avocados for the best creamy texture; they should yield slightly when pressed.
Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
For extra flavor, let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving.

Experiment with different herbs to find your perfect flavor combination!

Equipment Needed

Large bowl: A mixing bowl to combine your salad ingredients. A salad spinner can also work for washing greens.

Whisk: Essential for mixing the dressing. A fork can be a handy alternative.
Cutting board and knife: For chopping your vegetables. A sturdy plate can substitute in a pinch.
Tongs or large spoon: Perfect for tossing the salad. Your hands can work too, just wash them first!

Variations of Big Green Goddess Salad

Protein-Packed: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Grain Boost: Toss in cooked quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy twist.

Nutty Crunch: Add toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and healthy fats.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing for some heat.
Seasonal Veggies: Swap in seasonal vegetables like roasted beets or sweet corn for a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions for Big Green Goddess Salad

Pair with Grilled Chicken: This salad complements grilled chicken beautifully, adding protein to your meal.
Serve with Whole Grain Bread: A slice of crusty whole grain bread makes for a satisfying side.
Refreshing Drink: Enjoy with a glass of iced herbal tea or sparkling water for a refreshing touch.

Presentation: Serve in a large, colorful bowl to showcase the vibrant greens and veggies.

FAQs about Big Green Goddess Salad

Can I make the Big Green Goddess Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, your greens stay fresh and crisp!

What can I substitute for the Dijon mustard?

If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, you can use yellow mustard or even a bit of honey for a sweeter twist. Just remember, it will change the flavor slightly!

Is the Big Green Goddess Salad suitable for meal prep?

<pYes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Just store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. This way, you can enjoy fresh salads throughout the week without the hassle.

Can I add fruits to the Big Green Goddess Salad?

Definitely! Adding fruits like sliced strawberries or diced apples can bring a delightful sweetness to the salad. It’s a great way to mix flavors and textures!

How can I make this salad vegan?

This Big Green Goddess Salad is already vegetarian! To make it vegan, simply ensure that the Dijon mustard you use is free from any animal products. Enjoy your delicious, plant-based meal!

Final Thoughts

Creating the Big Green Goddess Salad is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about embracing the joy of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. Each bite is a celebration of health and happiness, making it a perfect choice for busy days or special gatherings. I love how this salad brings my family together, sparking conversations and smiles around the table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those greens without anyone noticing! So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let this delightful salad brighten your day. You won’t regret it!