Creamy Dreamy Green Goddess Dressing II: A Flavor Explosion!
Green Goddess dressing: the name alone conjures images of vibrant flavors and lush, verdant goodness. This updated take on the classic, which we’re calling Green Goddess Dressing II, amplifies all the best aspects of the original while adding a few delicious twists. Get ready to elevate your salads, vegetables, sandwiches, and more with this unbelievably flavorful and versatile dressing. It’s so good, you’ll want to put it on everything!
## What Makes Green Goddess Dressing II Special?
While many Green Goddess dressings rely on a mayonnaise base, this recipe uses a combination of Greek yogurt and avocado for a creamier, healthier, and even more vibrant flavor. The herbs are the stars of the show, with fresh parsley, chives, tarragon, and dill lending their unique aromatic qualities. Lemon juice and garlic add a zingy, pungent counterpoint, while a touch of Dijon mustard provides a subtle tang and emulsifies the dressing beautifully. Anchovy paste (optional but highly recommended!) contributes a savory umami depth that takes this dressing to the next level.
Green Goddess Dressing II isn’t just a dressing; it’s a sauce, a dip, a spread, and a marinade all rolled into one. Its versatility makes it a staple in any kitchen, ready to transform ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences.
## Ingredients:
* **1 ripe avocado:** This provides the creamy base and healthy fats. Make sure it’s ripe but not overly soft, otherwise the dressing might become too thin.
* **1 cup plain Greek yogurt:** Greek yogurt adds tanginess and creaminess while keeping the dressing relatively light. Use full-fat for the richest flavor, but low-fat works too.
* **1/4 cup packed fresh parsley:** Parsley is a key component, adding freshness and a slightly peppery flavor. Italian flat-leaf parsley is preferred for its robust flavor.
* **1/4 cup packed fresh chives:** Chives contribute a mild oniony flavor that complements the other herbs perfectly. Snip them finely for the best texture.
* **2 tablespoons fresh tarragon:** Tarragon brings a distinctive anise-like flavor that is essential for Green Goddess dressing. If you can’t find fresh tarragon, you can substitute dried tarragon, but use only 1 teaspoon, as the dried herb is more potent.
* **2 tablespoons fresh dill:** Dill adds a bright, slightly lemony flavor that enhances the overall freshness of the dressing.
* **2 tablespoons lemon juice:** Freshly squeezed lemon juice is crucial for adding acidity and brightness. It also helps to prevent the avocado from browning.
* **1 clove garlic, minced:** Garlic provides a pungent kick that balances the other flavors. Adjust the amount to your liking.
* **1 teaspoon Dijon mustard:** Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and helps to emulsify the dressing, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
* **1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional):** Anchovy paste adds a savory umami depth that elevates the dressing to another level. If you’re vegetarian or don’t like anchovies, you can omit it, but it really does make a difference.
* **1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil:** Olive oil adds richness and helps to create a smooth and emulsified dressing.
* **Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste:** Seasoning is key! Start with a small amount of salt and pepper and adjust to your liking. Remember that the anchovy paste (if using) is already quite salty.
* **2-4 tablespoons water:** To thin the dressing to your desired consistency. Add gradually, tasting as you go.
## Equipment:
* **Food processor or blender:** A food processor or blender is essential for creating a smooth and creamy dressing.
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurement.
* **Knife and cutting board:** For chopping the herbs and garlic.
* **Lemon juicer:** For extracting fresh lemon juice.
* **Spatula:** For scraping down the sides of the food processor or blender.
* **Airtight container:** For storing the dressing.
## Instructions:
**Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients**
* Wash and dry all the fresh herbs thoroughly. Remove any tough stems from the parsley. Roughly chop the parsley, chives, tarragon, and dill.
* Peel and pit the avocado. Cut it into chunks.
* Peel and mince the garlic clove.
* Juice the lemon to get 2 tablespoons of fresh juice.
* Measure out all the other ingredients.
**Step 2: Combine Ingredients**
* In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, parsley, chives, tarragon, dill, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, and anchovy paste (if using).
**Step 3: Blend Until Smooth**
* Process or blend the ingredients until completely smooth, scraping down the sides of the food processor or blender as needed. The mixture should be creamy and vibrant green.
**Step 4: Add Olive Oil and Water**
* With the food processor or blender running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the dressing is emulsified and smooth.
* Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. Some people prefer a thicker dressing, while others like it thinner.
**Step 5: Season to Taste**
* Season the dressing with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed. Remember that the anchovy paste (if using) is already salty.
**Step 6: Chill and Serve**
* Transfer the Green Goddess Dressing II to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for developing the best flavor.
* Serve chilled and enjoy!
## Tips for Success:
* **Use fresh, high-quality ingredients:** The flavor of Green Goddess dressing depends heavily on the quality of the ingredients. Use the freshest herbs you can find, and make sure your avocado is ripe but not overly soft.
* **Don’t over-blend:** Over-blending can cause the dressing to become too thin and lose its texture. Blend just until smooth.
* **Taste and adjust:** Taste the dressing after blending and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more lemon juice, garlic, or herbs to suit your preferences.
* **Let it chill:** Chilling the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld and develop.
* **Adjust the consistency:** If the dressing is too thick, add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can add a little more Greek yogurt or avocado.
* **Make it vegan:** To make this dressing vegan, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative, such as soy or cashew yogurt. You can also omit the anchovy paste or replace it with a pinch of seaweed flakes for a similar umami flavor.
* **Storage:** Green Goddess Dressing II can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The avocado may cause the dressing to brown slightly over time, but this doesn’t affect the flavor. To minimize browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the dressing before sealing the container.
## Serving Suggestions:
Green Goddess Dressing II is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:
* **Salad Dressing:** The classic use! Drizzle it over your favorite green salad, wedge salad, or chopped salad.
* **Vegetable Dip:** Serve it as a dip for raw vegetables like carrots, celery, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
* **Sandwich Spread:** Spread it on sandwiches and wraps for added flavor and moisture.
* **Sauce for Grilled Meats and Fish:** Drizzle it over grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a burst of flavor.
* **Potato Salad Dressing:** Use it instead of mayonnaise in potato salad for a lighter and more flavorful twist.
* **Pasta Salad Dressing:** Toss it with cooked pasta, vegetables, and protein for a delicious and healthy pasta salad.
* **Marinade:** Use it as a marinade for chicken or fish.
* **Topping for Tacos and Burritos:** Drizzle it over tacos and burritos for a creamy and flavorful topping.
* **Deviled Eggs:** Use it as a base for deviled eggs for a unique and flavorful twist.
* **Grain Bowls:** Add a dollop to grain bowls with quinoa, brown rice, or farro.
## Variations:
* **Spicy Green Goddess:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Lemon-Lime Green Goddess:** Substitute half of the lemon juice with lime juice for a zesty twist.
* **Avocado-Free Green Goddess:** If you don’t have an avocado on hand, you can use all Greek yogurt as the base. You may need to add a little more olive oil to achieve the desired consistency.
* **Herb-Forward Green Goddess:** Experiment with different combinations of herbs. Try adding cilantro, mint, or basil.
* **Roasted Garlic Green Goddess:** Roast the garlic before adding it to the dressing for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
* **Buttermilk Green Goddess:** Substitute some of the Greek yogurt with buttermilk for a tangier dressing.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate):
* Calories: 150-200 per serving (2 tablespoons)
* Fat: 12-17 grams
* Protein: 4-6 grams
* Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
* Fiber: 2-3 grams
*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
## Green Goddess Dressing II: The Recipe
This recipe will make about 1.5 cups of dressing.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 ripe avocado
* 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
* 1/4 cup packed fresh parsley
* 1/4 cup packed fresh chives
* 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon
* 2 tablespoons fresh dill
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* 1 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
* 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 2-4 tablespoons water
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare the ingredients: Wash and chop the herbs, peel and pit the avocado, mince the garlic, and juice the lemon.
2. Combine ingredients: In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, parsley, chives, tarragon, dill, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, and anchovy paste (if using).
3. Blend until smooth: Process or blend until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
4. Add olive oil and water: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until emulsified. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
5. Season to taste: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill and serve: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
## Conclusion:
Green Goddess Dressing II is a vibrant, flavorful, and versatile dressing that will elevate any dish. Its creamy texture, fresh herbs, and tangy lemon juice create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you use it as a salad dressing, dip, sauce, or marinade, this dressing is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your food processor, and get ready to experience the magic of Green Goddess Dressing II!