This creamy, tangy avocado green goddess dressing is bright, herb-forward, and made with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, protein-rich option. It works beautifully as a salad dressing, a dip for vegetables and pita, or a sauce for sandwiches.
The right dressing can transform a simple salad into something memorable. This avocado green goddess balances creaminess from avocado and Greek yogurt with the freshness of herbs, a squeeze of lemon, and a hint of garlic. It’s oil-free, light, and ready in minutes.
Made from wholesome ingredients—ripe avocado, plain Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, lemon juice, and garlic—this dressing is versatile and easy to customize. Use it to dress greens, drizzle over roasted vegetables, or serve alongside crudités.
What is green goddess dressing?
Green goddess dressing is an herbaceous, creamy, and tangy sauce known for its vibrant green color. Traditional versions often include mayonnaise or sour cream, but this recipe swaps in Greek yogurt for a lighter texture and added protein. It’s a flexible condiment that works as a salad dressing, dip, or sandwich spread.
Ingredients you’ll need
Only a handful of ingredients are required to make this vibrant dressing:
- Avocado: 1 large, ripe avocado for a creamy base and healthy fats.
- Greek yogurt: Plain, non-fat or regular, to replace mayonnaise and add protein.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed for bright acidity.
- Garlic: One or two cloves, pressed or minced for fresh flavor.
- Fresh herbs: Use 2–3 favorites such as coriander (cilantro), basil, parsley, or chives.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
How to make green goddess dressing
Add to a blender: Place the avocado, Greek yogurt, chosen herbs, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper into a blender or food processor.
Blend: Puree until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Small flecks of herbs are normal and add texture and visual appeal.
To thin: Add 1/4 cup of ice-cold water at a time until you reach the desired consistency. (About 1/2 cup total is a good starting point.)
Taste and adjust: Check seasoning and add more lemon, salt, or herbs if needed.
Serve chilled: Refrigerate briefly, then drizzle over salads, roasted vegetables, or use as a dip for raw vegetables or pita.
Tips & tricks
- Adjust to taste: Tweak the balance between creaminess and acidity by adding more yogurt or lemon until it suits your palate.
- Use it everywhere: This no-mayo dressing doubles as a dip for vegetables and potatoes, a spread for sandwiches and wraps, or a sauce for grilled proteins.
- Let it rest: Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld and mellow.
- Expect herb flecks: The dressing will be very creamy but not completely smooth—small pieces of herbs are natural and desirable.
- Meal prep friendly: Make extra and store leftovers for up to 6 days to simplify weekday meals.
How to store
Store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 days. Stir well before each use. If the surface darkens slightly from the avocado, stir to reincorporate.
Recipe FAQ
It tastes herbaceous, tangy, and creamy. Fresh herbs like basil and cilantro provide brightness while avocado and Greek yogurt add smooth, rich texture without a pronounced yogurt flavor.
Yes. Replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt, blended cashew cream, silken tofu, or a tahini-and-water mixture for a dairy-free alternative.
When enjoyed in moderation, this version is a healthy choice: it uses fresh herbs, has protein from Greek yogurt, no mayonnaise or added oil, and provides healthy fats from avocado.
This homemade dressing is relatively low in calories compared to mayo-based versions; calorie counts will vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.
More sauce recipes to try
Hoisin Peanut Sauce
Paprika Feta Dip
Avocado Lime Crema
Ricotta Pesto
If you try this avocado green goddess dressing or have questions, please leave a comment and share any variations you enjoy—I’d love to hear your feedback and tweaks.
Avocado Green Goddess Dressing
- Author: Caitlin Rule
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 1–2
Description
This creamy, tangy avocado green goddess dressing is packed with fresh herbs and made with Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It’s a healthy, versatile dressing and dip.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe avocado, pitted
- 1–2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup packed basil
- 1/4 cup packed coriander (cilantro)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup ice-cold water (add gradually to thin)
Instructions
- Combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, herbs, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Add 1/4 cup of ice-cold water at a time until you reach the desired consistency (about 1/2 cup total is a good guide).
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Chill briefly before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 days. Stir before using.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 33
- Fat: 2.3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 2.3g
- Fiber: 1.1g
- Protein: 1.6g