Creamy, bright, and herb-forward, basil green goddess dressing is an effortless way to elevate salads, sandwiches, and grilled dishes. Fresh basil gives this version a vibrant flavor that truly stands out.
Basil Green Goddess Dressing
When basil is at its peak in summer, this dressing becomes a favorite for brightening tomatoes, cucumbers, and mixed greens. Inspired by classic green goddess flavors, this recipe puts basil front and center while keeping the texture creamy and the overall calorie count lighter than many traditional versions. It’s quick to make and is equally at home as a dressing, dip, or sauce for proteins and bowls.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich but lighter: This dressing stays creamy by using light mayonnaise and light sour cream, trimming calories while preserving indulgent texture. For a keto option, use full-fat versions instead.
- Versatile: Use it on salads, as a dip for fresh vegetables, spread on sandwiches, or drizzled over grilled meats and seafood.
- Fresh flavor: Homemade dressing tastes brighter and more vibrant than most store-bought versions, thanks to fresh herbs and lemon juice.
What You’ll Need
Below are the primary ingredients for this basil green goddess dressing. The quantities are listed in the recipe card further down.
- Light mayonnaise – provides a smooth base; choose your preferred brand.
- Scallions or chives – add mild onion flavor and freshness.
- Fresh basil – packed and chopped; this herb is the star.
- Fresh lemon juice – brightens and balances the richness.
- Garlic – a single clove gives a gentle garlicky note.
- Kosher salt and black pepper – essential seasonings to taste.
- Anchovy paste – a small amount adds umami depth; substitute white miso or vegetarian Worcestershire for a vegetarian version.
- Light sour cream – for tang and creamy body; use full fat for richer texture.
How to Make Basil Green Goddess Dressing
This dressing comes together in minutes using a blender or food processor. Blend the aromatic ingredients first, then incorporate the sour cream to reach a silky, uniform texture.
- Blend: Combine the mayonnaise, scallions or chives, basil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and anchovy paste in a blender or food processor. Process until completely smooth.
- Add sour cream: Stir in or briefly process with the sour cream until the dressing is fully incorporated and silky.
- Serve or store: Use right away or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Tips and Variations
- Mix herbs: For a more classic green goddess, combine parsley, chives, tarragon, cilantro, and basil. Try different blends to suit your palate.
- Adjust thickness: Add more sour cream for a dip, or thin with a tablespoon or two of water for a pourable dressing.
- Pack the basil: Pack the basil tightly when measuring to ensure a pronounced herb flavor.
- Make it lighter: Swap the mayo for Greek yogurt to reduce calories and add tang.
Ways to Use Green Goddess Dressing
- As a salad dressing: Toss with mixed greens or serve over a wedge salad with ripe tomatoes.
- As a dip: Offer it alongside raw vegetables, roasted potatoes, or crispy wings.
- On sandwiches and wraps: Spread a thin layer for extra creaminess and herb flavor.
- With grilled proteins: Drizzle over grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish for a bright finish.
- In pasta salads: Toss with cooked pasta, beans, and cherry tomatoes for a quick, flavorful pasta salad.
- On grain bowls: A spoonful livens rice, quinoa, or salad bowls with color and richness.
Proper Storage
Store the dressing in a sealed jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because this recipe contains mayonnaise, it’s not suitable for freezing.
Other Easy Dressings to Try
- Asian carrot-ginger dressing
- Avocado-cilantro buttermilk dressing
- Low-fat creamy blue cheese dressing
- Creamy cilantro-tomatillo dressing
- Light cucumber ranch
Basil Green Goddess Dressing
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup light mayonnaise (use regular mayo for keto)
- 1/2 cup scallions or chives, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil, packed
- 1/8 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 clove garlic, chopped
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp anchovy paste (or substitute white miso for vegetarian)
- 1/2 cup light sour cream (use full fat for a richer version)
Instructions
- Place all ingredients except the sour cream in a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth.
- Add the sour cream and process briefly until fully incorporated and silky.
- Transfer to a jar and refrigerate until ready to use. Keep chilled and use within 3 days.
Notes
Makes about 2 cups of dressing. To make an even lighter version, swap the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt.
Nutrition (per 2 tbsp)
Calories: 60.3 kcal; Carbohydrates: 2.9 g; Protein: 1.3 g; Fat: 4.9 g; Fiber: 0.3 g.
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