High Protein Green Goddess Salad

Name: High Protein Green Goddess Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, kale, arugula); 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 avocado, sliced; 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, chives, dill), chopped; 1 ripe avocado; 1/4 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I love making a High Protein Green Goddess Salad when I want a dish that's both nutritious and satisfying. This salad is not only vibrant and fresh, but it also offers a hearty dose of protein to keep me fueled throughout the day. The creamy green goddess dressing, made with avocado and herbs, adds an extra layer of richness to the crunchy vegetables and protein-packed ingredients. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad truly hits all the right notes.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:22:29.078Z

When I first tried this High Protein Green Goddess Salad, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could infuse such vibrant flavors. Each bite is a delightful crunch, and the dressing—creamy yet zesty—tied it all together beautifully. I recommend using freshly chopped herbs for the best flavor balance; it really makes a difference!

Experimenting with different protein sources is quite fun too. I often add chickpeas or grilled chicken to vary the texture and nutritional profile. This way, I can tailor it to my mood or what I have on hand. It’s a versatile salad that never gets boring!

Why You'll Love This Salad
Nutritious ingredients packed with flavor
Creamy green goddess dressing made with avocado
Versatile; can be customized with your favorite proteins

Ingredient Highlights

The combination of mixed greens in this salad not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also provides diverse textures and flavors. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C, while kale adds a hearty crunch, and arugula contributes a peppery bite. Paired together, they create a base that is both tasty and nutritious. Consider swapping some greens for romaine or watercress based on your preference or seasonal availability.

Quinoa serves as a fantastic protein source and offers a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. To enhance its texture, make sure to fluff it with a fork after cooking; this will keep it light and airy. You can prepare quinoa in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days, making this salad even easier to assemble on busy days.

Mastering the Dressing

The green goddess dressing is the star of this salad, elevating its flavors while keeping it nutritious. The creaminess of the avocado provides healthy fats, which not only contribute to a satisfying mouthfeel but also aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the greens. If you need a lighter option, you can reduce the Greek yogurt and replace it with more lemon juice or water for a thinner dressing.

When blending the dressing, start with the liquids before adding the avocado. This helps achieve a smoother consistency without large chunks. If the dressing is too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches your desired texture. Always taste and adjust seasoning; sometimes, a pinch more salt can elevate the dressing significantly.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for the best results:

Salad Ingredients

2 cups mixed greens (spinach, kale, arugula)
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, chives, dill), chopped

Green Goddess Dressing

1 ripe avocado
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for maximum flavor!

Instructions

Follow these quick steps to create your salad:

Prepare the Dressing

In a blender, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and chickpeas. Toss gently to combine.

Add the Dressing

Drizzle the green goddess dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well-coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

Top the salad with sliced avocado and fresh herbs. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This salad is best served fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to a day.

Pro Tips

For an extra protein kick, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp to your salad. You can also swap the chickpeas for black beans or lentils if you prefer.

Serving Suggestions

This High Protein Green Goddess Salad can easily be transformed into a more substantial meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu on top. These proteins increase the heartiness of the dish and make it satisfying for lunch or dinner. Alternatively, try topping it with a poached egg for an extra indulgent touch that pairs well with the creamy dressing.

To make the dish even more appealing, consider serving it in a large bowl and garnishing with sliced radishes or edible flowers. This not only enhances visual appeal but also adds a delightful crunch and a pop of flavor. Remember to keep extra dressing on the side; it allows guests to customize their salad to their liking.

Storage and Meal Prep

For meal prep, store each component separately to keep your salad fresh. Mixed greens can be rinsed and dried before placing them in an airtight container, where they’ll last for about three days. Quinoa can be cooked in large batches and stored in the fridge, ready to be added to salads or other meals throughout the week.

As for the dressing, it can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to a week in the fridge. Just give it a good shake or stir before serving, as it may thicken when chilled. In terms of freezing, avoid freezing the salad, as the greens will wilt; however, the dressing can be frozen for up to a month, making it a convenient option for future salads.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

→ What are some good protein options for this salad?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even boiled eggs make excellent protein additions to this salad.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, the salad is gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free quinoa and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I use a different base instead of quinoa?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute quinoa with farro, barley, or even a mix of your favorite grains.