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12 Comments

Panera Bread Green Goddess Dressing

Kathleen

by Kathleen Pope Apr 7, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Pretty pitcher filled with green goddess salad dressing and salad behind, to pin.
Ingredients for green goddess salad dressing in blender and in small pitcher for serving, to pin.
Panera green goddess salad dressing or dip in pretty pitcher and in blender with ingredients and after blending, to pin.
Pouring green goddess salad dressing onto green salad and green goddess in pitcher, to pin.

Make the best homemade Green Goddess dressing in just 5 minutes! This fresh, vibrant Green Goddess Dressing Recipe is even better than Panera’s—without the preservatives. Packed with fresh basil, Greek yogurt, and a creamy, tangy kick, I’ll share my top tips to make it taste just right.

Green goddess salad dressing in pretty pitcher for serving.
This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure & privacy policy.

I enjoy giving precise details in my recipe posts to lead my readers through any questions. If you’re just here for the printable recipe, use the Jump to Recipe to head straight there!

  • Tips for the Best Green Goddess Dressing
  • Recommended Tools

When our local Panera closed, I was way more upset than I should’ve been—mainly because I really loved their Green Goddess dressing (and, let’s be real, their whole Green Goddess Chicken Salad situation). Since they don’t sell it in stores, I had to recreate it at home. And honestly? Now I wouldn’t go back!

Tips for the Best Green Goddess Dressing

  • Fresh basil is everything—It’s what gives this dressing its bright, herby flavor. No dried substitutes here!
  • Pesto is the secret ingredient—A spoonful of pesto takes the basil flavor up a notch and adds a little extra depth.
  • Let it chill—Giving the dressing at least 30 minutes in the fridge helps the flavors meld and makes it even better.
  • Blend just enough—Too much, and the dressing can lose its vibrant color and texture. A quick pulse keeps it smooth but not overly processed.
  • Taste and adjust—Everyone’s taste is different! Add a little extra vinegar for more tang, honey for a touch of sweetness, a splash of Worcestershire sauce if you like, squeeze of lemon, or salt and pepper to balance it out.

This homemade Green Goddess dressing is fresh, creamy, and so much better-for-you than anything from the store. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to bottled!

What is Green Goddess Salad Dressing?

This beloved salad dressing reportedly dates back to the 1920s when the executive chef of the Palace Hotel in San Francisco created the recipe to celebrate the hit play “The Green Goddess” that was running on Broadway at the time.

It became wildly popular in the 70s and 80s and was a favorite at potlucks, served right out of the Tupperware bowl next to the green jello and the fruit cocktail and whipped cream salad. Although times (and salads, thank goodness) have changed, this classic dressing still remains a favorite, thanks in part to its place on the Panera menu.

Why you will love this Green Goddess Dressing Recipe

  • Fresh and Fast – Delicious, homemade flavor in just a quick whirl!
  • Simple Ingredients – A few pantry staples and lots of fresh basil.
  • Versatile – Amazing as a salad dressing, dip or marinade.
Drizzling green goddess dressing onto fresh made chicken cobb salad.
Drizzle with dressing

Healthy Twist

  • Healthier Ingredients – Greek yogurt, fresh basil, shallots, pesto, and a small amount of mayo are the main ingredients in this flavorful dressing.
  • Homemade –  Fresh tasting and free from preservatives, homemade dressings are simply better for you than store-bought! 

Panera Green Goddess Dressing ingredients

  • Greek yogurt | Plain Greek yogurt adds tanginess along with a velvety and light texture. Use full-fat or non-fat. Sour cream may be substituted if you like the taste better.
  • Mayo | Mayonnaise helps create a silky and creamy dressing. I like to use Chosen Foods Avocado Mayo for a healthier alternative and better flavor. You may use your favorite!
  • Fresh Basil | If you don’t have a basil plant to pull leaves from, try Trader Joe’s for a variety of affordable fresh basil options.
  • Shallot | Shallots add a delicate but sweet flavor with a hint of sharpness.
  • Pesto | You can choose store-bought pesto or follow my recipe for Easy Homemade Basil Pesto Sauce.
  • White wine vinegar | Use for a sharp, tangy flavor that is less harsh then distilled white vinegar.
  • Honey | Local, raw honey is my favorite for added health benefits. May also substitute agave.
Labeled ingredients for green goddess salad dressing and dip.
USA Bakeware pans, set.

Recommended Tools

  • This mini food processor would be perfect for this dressing.
  • Or use a blender, full-size or smoothie sized.
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How to Make Green Goddess Salad Dressing

  1. This easy recipe makes the ultimate salad dressing, dip or marinade to add to your spring and summer menus!
  2. Roughly chop your shallot and basil;  measure and add to your food processor or blender.
  3. Measure and add your mayo, Greek yogurt, pesto, white wine vinegar, honey, and dijon.
  4. Add a pinch of kosher salt and a pinch of pepper. Blend until well combined. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
Ingredients in blender ready to whir for Green goddess dressing.
Place ingredients in blender
Ingredients whirred in blender for green goddess salad dressing.
Whir until smooth

Homemade salad dressings are so simple to make and far better than anything store-bought! They are the easiest way to turn a good salad into a great one!

Try my other homemade salad dressings like this Pomegranate Dressing with fresh citrus, pomegranate, and tangy dijon flavors! And this zesty Apple Cider Vinaigrette doubles as a marinade. Or this low-carb, creamy Blue Cheese Dressing and finally, this zesty Italian dressing recipe.

Green Goddess Salad Dressing Recipe tips

  • You’ll need around 30 fresh basil leaves to loosely fill ¾ of a cup. Of course, the size of the leaf may vary, so start with this amount, taste and then adjust and add more basil if you wish.
  • Depending on your preferences, you can adjust the ingredients to make this dressing uniquely your own.
Delicious green goddess dressing in pretty crystal pitcher with green salad behind.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Nut Free: Try my Nut Free Basil Pesto Sauce for a delicious alternative.
  • Avocado: Add heart-healthy avocado for an even richer, creamier dressing.
  • Sweeter: For a slightly sweeter dressing, add ½ tablespoon of agave syrup or honey.
  • Herbs: Dill, cilantro, parsley, chives, and mint are delicious additions to your dressing. Or, try tarragon, which is excellent when serving chicken.
  • Dip-alicious: Use as a colorful dip for chips and pretzels, sweet potato, or regular fries.
Green goddess dressing poured onto a crisp green salad.

Storing Green Goddess Salad Dressing

Refrigerate – Store this dressing in an airtight container for up to one week.

Freeze – I would not recommend it. Once thawed, you may not like the looks or taste of it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

If you need to make this dressing ahead of time, try and make it the day you will be serving it. The freshness of this dressing is what gives it the best flavor.

Can I make this recipe with less fat?

Yes, if you wish to limit the fat in this dressing, you may use fat free mayo and Greek yogurt.

What is in a Panera Green Goddess Salad?

The original Panera Green Goddess salad is loaded with fresh arugula, romaine lettuces and baby kale, grape tomatoes, hard-boiled egg, pickled red onions, avocado, crispy bacon and sliced chicken breast. You can easily make this salad at home! Try my fabulous copycat recipe Panera Green Goddess Salad.

How many carbs in Panera Green Goddess Salad dressing?

Only 3 carbs in my easy, copycat Panera green goddess salad dressing, making it a fresh and healthy choice for your next salad.

Pouring green goddess salad dressing onto a fresh green salad.

Main Dishes that Pair Perfectly with Green Goddess Salad Dressing

The fresh and herby flavors of this dressing complement the smoky and savory flavor of this steakhouse wedge salad.

Panera Green Goddess Cobb salad with grilled chicken.

Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad

The inspiration for this Green Goddess Cobb salad!

Recipe Here
Asian Pork Tenderloin sliced and juicy on cutting board.

Asian Marinated Grilled Pork Tenderloin

This is my go-to Asian marinade for pork tenderloin! Perfect, every-single-time!

Recipe Here

Try using this dressing as a dip alongside some chopped veggies, as a wrap or sandwich spread, or as a sauce to drizzle over a grain bowl, grilled chicken, steak or fish. It is so versatile!

Best Sides to Serve with Green Goddess Dressing

This creamy and tangy dressing pairs well with roasted vegetables like my Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Honey Balsamic Glaze or as a dip for fresh veggies as shown below.

Square image of top down shot of air fryer asparagus on a plate with lemons and fresh block of parmesan.

Roasted Asparagus

Asparagus comes out perfectly roasted when made in the air fryer, drizzle a little Green Goddess dressing over the top!

Recipe Here
Crudites dip in bowl with larger bowl filled with fresh, crisp veggies.

Veggie Crudite

Serve alongside this amazing crudite dip or stir in several tablespoons to the dip.

Recipe Here
Green goddess salad dressing on cobb salad a Panera bread copycat recipe.

More Delicious Salads

  • Best Steakhouse Wedge Salad Recipe (with Romaine)
  • Best Easy Italian Chopped Salad Recipe
  • Best Mexican Fruit Salad Recipe
  • Healthy Crunchy Ramen Noodle Salad
  • Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Salad with Rhubarb Dressing
  • Sweet Maple Apple Pecan Salad
  • Blackberry Grilled Chicken Salad with Fried Goat Cheese

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Ingredients for green goddess salad dressing in blender and in small pitcher for serving, to pin.

I hope you loved this Copycat Panera Green Goddess Salad Dressing— if you did, would you share your creation on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest? And be sure to comment below!

Like this recipe?

Don’t forget to give it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and leave a comment below the recipe!

Recipe Card
Pouring Panera green goddess salad dressing over a crisp green salad.

Panera Bread Green Goddess Dressing

5 from 6 readers
Author: Kathleen Pope
Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes minutes
Servings: 6 servings (2 Tablespoons)
Print Pin SaveSaved!
Light, bright, and full of fresh, herby flavor, this Green Goddess salad dressing is hard to resist. Fresh basil, zesty dijon, and savory pesto combined with creamy Greek yogurt make this classic dressing a springtime favorite!

Equipment

  • Oxo Dressing Keeper
  • Ninja Personal Blender for Shakes, Smoothies

Ingredients 
US Customary – Metric

  • ½ cup Greek yogurt plain
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • ¾-1 cup basil leaves fresh
  • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon shallot minced
  • 1 tablespoon pesto homemade or storebought
  • ยฝ tablespoon honey
  • ยฝ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to blender or small food processor, blend until creamy and smooth. Taste, adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Last step! Leave a RatingRate this recipe here. This helps other readers and helps support this website.

Notes

Refrigerate until ready to use, stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 5-7 days. 
Ways to use Green Goddess Dressing
  • Drizzle over your favorite veggies.
  • Use as a light dip with your favorite crudite veggies or chips.
  • On your favorite salads, including this Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb salad. 
  • Drizzle over chicken, fish, steak or shrimp for a yummy boost.

Nutrition

Serving: 2tablespoons | Calories: 92kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 94mg | Potassium: 43mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 216IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 0.2mg
Pouring Panera green goddess salad dressing over a crisp green salad.
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Hi, Iโ€™m Kathleen Pope. Here at The Fresh Cooky you will find easy, mostly from-scratch, trusted recipes for all occasions. From speedy dinners to tasty desserts, with easy step-by-step instructions. I am here to help teach you how to make mouthwatering recipes without spending hours in the kitchen.

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  1. Ali

    Fri, May 12, 2023 at 11:16 am

    5 stars
    Paneras green goddess dressing is so good I have to try this copycat!! I love that it is actually so easy to make.

    Reply
    • KathleenKathleen Pope

      Fri, May 12, 2023 at 11:28 am

      Super easy!! Thanks, Ali.

      Reply
  2. Kushigalu

    Fri, May 12, 2023 at 10:40 am

    5 stars
    What a flavorful salad dressing. Thanks alot for sharing.

    Reply
    • KathleenKathleen Pope

      Fri, May 12, 2023 at 10:52 am

      So glad you loved it!

      Reply
  3. veenaazmanov

    Fri, May 12, 2023 at 9:57 am

    5 stars
    This combination is definitely yummy. All the additions like Yogurt, Pesto, Honey, Dijon Mustard , Mayo makes this dressing unique. A must try dressing for my next salad recipe.

    Reply
    • KathleenKathleen Pope

      Fri, May 12, 2023 at 10:52 am

      For sure! Hope you love it!

      Reply
  4. Dannii

    Fri, May 12, 2023 at 9:22 am

    5 stars
    This salad dressing was amazing. So light and fresh.

    Reply
    • KathleenKathleen Pope

      Fri, May 12, 2023 at 10:51 am

      Glad you loved it!

      Reply
  5. Elizabeth

    Fri, May 12, 2023 at 8:59 am

    5 stars
    I love how this is a healthier homemade version of the restaurant dressing. Interesting background on its history too! The basil gives it a fresh summery taste.

    Reply
    • KathleenKathleen Pope

      Fri, May 12, 2023 at 10:51 am

      Such a great flavor!!

      Reply
  6. Tasia

    Mon, May 1, 2023 at 6:16 pm

    5 stars
    I’ve never made my own green goddess dressing and I don’t know why. This is so good and I see using it on just about all my summer salads!!

    Reply
    • KathleenKathleen Pope

      Mon, May 1, 2023 at 6:45 pm

      Such a fantastic summer salad dressing!!

      Reply

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Kathleen Pope

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Hey there! I'm Kathleen Pope, a proud wife, mom of two awesome college boys, and recipe nerd. Welcome to my world of easy recipes with a healthy twist! Join thousands who trust The Fresh Cooky as their go-to recipe source. Let's cook up some magic!

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