High Protein Green Goddess Salad

Name: High Protein Green Goddess Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, kale); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup cooked chickpeas; 1/2 cup quinoa, cooked; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds; 1 ripe avocado; 1/4 cup fresh parsley; 1/4 cup fresh basil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 clove garlic; Salt and pepper to taste; Water to thin as needed

Highlighted under: Quick Healthy Recipes

I love creating vibrant salads that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. This High Protein Green Goddess Salad is a personal favorite of mine because it combines fresh greens with protein-rich ingredients, making it a satisfying meal. The creamy green goddess dressing adds a zesty touch, while the crunchy nuts provide texture. Whether I enjoy it for a quick lunch or as a side dish, this salad keeps me feeling energized and satisfied. Let's dive into this nutritious recipe that celebrates green goodness!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:13:04.568Z

When I was first experimenting with plant-based diets, I immediately fell in love with the versatility of salads. This High Protein Green Goddess Salad showed me how to elevate a simple mix of greens by incorporating nuts, seeds, and a delicious homemade dressing. It not only complements meal prep but also gives me confidence in serving something healthy and nourishing to guests.

The key is to balance flavors and textures, so I blend creamy avocado with fresh herbs to create the dressing. Each bite bursts with freshness and I feel great enjoying it, knowing I’m fueling my body right.

Reasons to Love This Salad
Packed with plant-based protein for sustained energy
Creamy, herbaceous dressing that elevates the flavors
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy days

Ingredient Highlights

The backbone of this High Protein Green Goddess Salad is the mixed greens, which provide a vibrant base filled with essential vitamins and minerals. Spinach, arugula, and kale deliver a variety of flavors and textures, ensuring that each bite is both satisfying and nutritious. Fresh ingredients should always be used; I recommend selecting greens that are crisp and bright to maximize flavor and freshness.

Chickpeas and quinoa not only enhance the protein content of this salad but also offer complementary textures. The creamy chickpeas create a hearty element that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy vegetables. When cooking quinoa, it’s crucial to rinse it beforehand to remove the natural bitterness, leading to a nuttier flavor and fluffier texture. Aim for a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio for perfect results.

Perfecting the Dressing

The Green Goddess Dressing is what truly sets this salad apart, so pay close attention to achieving the right consistency. Start with a ripe avocado, as it provides creaminess and rich flavor. Adjust the water you add to ensure the dressing is pourable but not too runny—aim for a smooth, luscious texture that clings to the salad without overpowering it.

Herbs are key in this dressing, and using fresh parsley and basil makes a world of difference. Make sure to thoroughly wash the herbs to remove any grit, as this will impact the final taste. If you’re looking for a twist, consider adding a hint of dill or chives for an added layer of flavor. Remember, the magic of this dressing lies in blending it until glossy and homogeneous.

Ingredients

Salad Base

4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, kale)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

High Protein Additions

1 cup cooked chickpeas
1/2 cup quinoa, cooked
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds

Green Goddess Dressing

1 ripe avocado
1/4 cup fresh parsley
1/4 cup fresh basil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic
Salt and pepper to taste
Water to thin as needed

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Make the Dressing

In a blender, combine the avocado, parsley, basil, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding water to achieve desired consistency.

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, chickpeas, quinoa, and seeds. Toss gently to mix.

Dress the Salad

Pour the green goddess dressing over the salad and toss again until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Divide the salad into bowls, top with feta cheese if using, and serve immediately.

Enjoy this salad as a stand-alone meal or as a side dish with your favorite protein!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this salad with any of your favorite ingredients like avocado, nuts, or seasonal veggies.

Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it in advance for meal prep. Store the salad ingredients separately from the dressing to maintain freshness. The mixed greens can last up to three days in the refrigerator when kept in an airtight container, while the dressing should be refrigerated and used within a week for optimal flavor and creaminess.

If you have leftovers, consider avoiding sogginess by reviving the salad with a quick toss of fresh greens. For the protein elements, chickpeas and quinoa hold up well, but retain their crunch by adding seeds just before serving. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can also revitalize flavor after a day in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

This High Protein Green Goddess Salad serves beautifully on its own as a filling lunch or as a wholesome side dish at dinner. To elevate your meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or baked tofu for an extra protein boost. You can also add sliced avocado on top for a creamier texture that complements the dressing.

For a more substantial meal, consider turning this salad into a wrap by filling a large lettuce leaf with the salad mix and putting a dollop of dressing on top. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the same flavors in a new format, making it an exciting option for lunches or picnics.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the dressing a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, it's gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free quinoa.

→ How long will leftovers last?

If stored properly in the fridge, leftovers can last for up to 2 days. However, it's best to store the dressing separately.

→ Can I add more protein?

Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, tofu, or other protein sources to enhance the protein content even further.