TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa)

If you’re looking for a way to brighten up your meals, I have just the thing for you! The TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa) is not only fresh and vibrant, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this salad is sure to be a hit. With its colorful veggies and creamy dressing, it’s both satisfying and nourishing. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds!

This delightful salad is perfect as a side dish or can easily be transformed into a main meal by adding your favorite protein. I love how this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your new go-to!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious salad ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The fresh flavors and crunchy textures are sure to please everyone at the table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and store in the fridge—perfect for meal prepping!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and nutritious greens, this salad is as good for you as it is tasty.
• Customizable Delight: You can tweak the dressing or add proteins to suit your taste—endless possibilities!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This salad features simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Get ready to enjoy a burst of flavor with every bite!

For the Salad:

• 1 small head green cabbage (approximately 6 to 8 cups)
• 1 large English cucumber
• 1/4 cup fresh chives
• 1 bunch green onions or scallions (approximately 6 to 8)

For the Dressing:

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 2 cloves fresh garlic
• 1 small shallot
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup nuts of your choice (we used unsalted cashews)
• 1/3 cup nutritional yeast (we used Bob’s Red Mills)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• A few additional chives (optional)

Variations

The beauty of the TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa) is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or what suits your taste buds.

• Add More Greens: Toss in some arugula or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
• Swap the Protein: Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for a heartier meal.
• Change Up the Nuts: Use almonds or walnuts instead of cashews for different flavors and textures.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding parsley or cilantro to give a new twist to the dressing.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Veggies

Start by washing and chopping the cabbage, cucumbers, chives, and green onions. Cut them into confetti-sized pieces if you want that fun texture recommended in the original recipe. Once chopped, place all those vibrant veggies in a large bowl—it’s like making a colorful masterpiece!

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, olive oil, and rice vinegar first. Then add in all remaining dressing ingredients: fresh basil leaves, spinach, garlic cloves, shallot, nuts, nutritional yeast, and salt. Blend until smooth; you’ll want it thick yet pourable—this creamy dressing is what brings everything together!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Pour that glorious green dressing over your chopped veggies. Give everything a good mix so each piece gets coated in that flavorful goodness. Trust me; this step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

Now that you’ve mixed everything together beautifully, it’s time to dig in! Enjoy your TikTok Green Goddess Salad as is or pair it with your favorite protein for an even more satisfying meal. Either way, I know you’ll love every bite!

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

Making the perfect TikTok Green Goddess Salad is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Chop Vegetables Uniformly: Ensuring all your veggies are chopped into similar sizes not only makes for an aesthetically pleasing salad but also allows for even distribution of flavors in every bite.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your ingredients, the more vibrant and flavorful your salad will be. Opting for crispy cabbage and fragrant herbs will bring out the best in this dish.
• Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to experiment with different nuts like almonds or walnuts instead of cashews. Each type will provide a unique crunch and flavor that can change the character of your dressing.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before adding it to your chopped veggies to save time on busy days.
• Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to taste your dressing before pouring it over the salad! Adjust the seasoning or acidity based on your preference—this is your chance to make it just right for you!

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

Serving this delightful salad is as fun as making it! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, here are some ideas to present this vibrant dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling additional chopped nuts on top adds extra crunch and visual appeal.
• Microgreens: A handful of microgreens can elevate the presentation while providing a fresh burst of flavor.
• Extra Chives: Finely chopped chives scattered over the top enhance both flavor and color, making your salad look gourmet.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light and nutty quinoa pilaf pairs excellently with this salad, adding texture and a wholesome grain option.
• Roasted Chickpeas: Crispy roasted chickpeas not only add protein but also a satisfying crunch that complements the freshness of the salad.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers filled with seasonal vegetables bring a smoky flavor that perfectly balances the lightness of the Green Goddess Salad.
• Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs and lemon zest offers a zesty side that ties in beautifully with the green goddess theme.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a beautiful meal that’s sure to impress! Happy eating!

Make Ahead and Storage

This TikTok Green Goddess Salad is an excellent option for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights or lunches. Here’s how to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• If possible, keep the dressing separate from the salad until you’re ready to serve.

Freezing

• Unfortunately, this salad is not suitable for freezing due to its fresh ingredients and dressing.
• However, you can freeze the dressing separately if needed, up to 1 month. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before use.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
• If you prefer warm salads, consider adding grilled vegetables or warmed proteins on top when serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa):

Can I make the TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa) in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad and dressing ahead of time. Just keep them stored separately until you’re ready to enjoy.

What can I substitute for nutritional yeast in the TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa)?

If you don’t have nutritional yeast, you can try using grated vegan cheese or simply omit it for a lighter version. The salad will still be delicious!

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

The salad lasts about 2-3 days when stored properly in an airtight container. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh!

Can I add protein to my TikTok Green Goddess Salad (Baked by Melissa)?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite plant-based protein like chickpeas, tofu, or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope this TikTok Green Goddess Salad brings joy and nourishment to your table! It’s not only vibrant and tasty but also incredibly versatile—perfect as a side dish or main course. Enjoy making this refreshing recipe that celebrates wholesome ingredients. Don’t forget to share your thoughts on how yours turned out; I can’t wait to hear from you!