TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa)

If you’re looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that makes you feel good inside and out, you’ve got to try the TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa). This salad is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes with its colorful veggies and creamy dressing. I absolutely love how versatile it is—perfect as a side for your weeknight dinners or as a light lunch on a sunny day. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in those greens, making it ideal for family gatherings!

This recipe has become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s quick to whip up and packed with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for something fresh to serve at your next gathering, this salad will not disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: It takes only about 30 minutes to prepare this delicious salad, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutrient-Packed: With a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs, this salad is loaded with vitamins and minerals to keep you feeling great.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish, dip, or even as a taco topping—the possibilities are endless!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the salad in advance and let the flavors meld together in the fridge.
• Vegan Delight: This refreshing salad fits perfectly into vegan diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa) are simple and wholesome. Gather these fresh items for a crunchy, herb-filled experience that will brighten any meal.

For the Salad

• 1 small head of cabbage, finely chopped (about 6-8 cups chopped)
• 3-4 baby cucumbers or 1 large English cucumber, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chives, finely chopped
• 1 bundle green onions/scallions, finely chopped (about 6-8)

For the Dressing

• Juice of two lemons (about 1/3 of a cup)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp. rice vinegar (any white vinegar works)
• 1 cup basil leaves
• 1 cup baby spinach leaves, packed
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 small shallot, roughly chopped
• 1/3 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tsp. sea salt or Himalayan pink salt (more to taste)

Optional Toppings

• 1/4 cup nuts of choice or pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

Variations

This TikTok Green Goddess Salad is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add some protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas or black beans for an added protein boost.
• Change up the greens: Use kale or arugula instead of cabbage for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
• Switch up the nuts: Try different nuts like almonds or walnuts for added crunch.

How to Make TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa)

Step 1: Chop and Combine

Start by chopping all your veggies—cabbage, cucumbers, chives, and green onions. It’s important to get them finely chopped so that every bite is full of flavor! Once you have everything prepped, combine these ingredients in a large bowl. This way, they can mingle together as they await their delicious dressing!

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Next up is the dressing! In your food processor or blender, combine all of the dressing ingredients: lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar, basil leaves, spinach leaves, garlic, shallot, nutritional yeast, and salt. If you’re using a blender, remember to add the liquid ingredients first; this helps everything blend smoothly! Blend until the mixture is creamy—about 30-45 seconds should do it.

Step 3: Finish

Now comes the best part! Pour that luscious dressing over your salad mix and toss gently to combine everything evenly. If you’re not serving right away, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate—it will taste even better after chilling in the fridge! But if you’re ready to dive in now—enjoy every crunchy bite!

Pro Tips for Making TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa)

Creating the perfect TikTok Green Goddess Salad is all about those little details that make a big difference! Here are some pro tips to ensure your salad is a hit every time.

• Chop veggies uniformly: Ensuring all your vegetables are chopped to a similar size not only makes for a more appealing presentation but also allows them to blend together beautifully in every bite.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil and spinach provide vibrant flavors that dried herbs simply can’t match. Using fresh ingredients ensures your dressing tastes bright and lively!
• Taste as you go: Seasoning is key! After mixing your dressing, taste it and adjust the salt or acid as needed. This will help you find the perfect balance of flavors.
• Let it chill: If possible, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.
• Add crunch last: If you’re including nuts or seeds, add them just before serving. This keeps them crunchy and prevents them from getting soggy in the dressing.

How to Serve TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa)

This salad is as versatile as it is delicious! You can serve it in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal at home, here are some creative ideas to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Crushed red pepper flakes: A sprinkle of these adds a beautiful pop of color and an extra kick of heat.
• Extra chives or scallions: Finely chopped and sprinkled on top, these add freshness and enhance the herbaceous flavor of the salad.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle just before serving can add richness and make the dish look even more appetizing.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain dish complements the salad’s crunch while adding protein and fiber, making your meal even heartier.
• Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices are a fantastic high-protein side that pairs beautifully with the fresh flavors of the salad.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers featuring seasonal veggies bring an element of smokiness that contrasts nicely with the brightness of the salad.
• Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread makes for a satisfying side that echoes the richness found in your creamy green goddess dressing.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll be ready to impress anyone fortunate enough to share this delightful meal with you! Enjoy every crunchy, herby bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This TikTok Green Goddess Salad is not just a delight to eat but also a fantastic option for meal prep! It stays fresh and flavorful, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover salad to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the salad’s crunch.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh; however, if you need to freeze it:
• Place the chopped veggies (without dressing) in a freezer-safe bag.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Use within 2 months for optimal taste; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• As this salad is meant to be served cold, reheating isn’t necessary.
• If you prefer warmed ingredients, consider lightly sautéing the veggies before mixing with the dressing.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the TikTok Green Goddess Salad that may help you enjoy this recipe even more!

Can I make TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa) vegan?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly. The creamy dressing uses nutritional yeast instead of cheese for flavor, making it perfect for plant-based diets.

How long does TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa) last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad can last up to 3 days in the fridge. For best results, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

What can I use instead of nutritional yeast?

If you don’t have nutritional yeast on hand, try using grated vegan cheese or simply omit it. The salad will still be delicious and flavorful!

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes! You can easily add cooked chickpeas, lentils, or your favorite plant-based protein to make it more filling and nutritious.

Is there a substitute for rice vinegar?

Yes! You can use any white vinegar or apple cider vinegar as a substitute for rice vinegar in this recipe without compromising flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope this TikTok Green Goddess Salad becomes a staple in your kitchen! Its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients make it not just a dish but a delightful experience. Enjoy preparing and sharing this recipe with your friends and family—I can’t wait to hear how much you love it. Happy cooking!