Bibb Salad With Basil Green Goddess Dressing Recipe

Indulge in this vibrant Bibb lettuce salad, featuring a revitalized Basil Green Goddess dressing! Inspired by the iconic 1920s San Francisco Palace Hotel recipe, this updated version boasts a burst of fresh basil flavor. Originally a tribute to the play "The Green Goddess," our dressing swaps tarragon for a more intense basil taste, creating a bright green masterpiece. Perfect for a light lunch or elegant dinner, this recipe is surprisingly quick to make and incredibly delicious. Enjoy it with crisp Bibb lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and the creamy, herbaceous dressing – a flavor sensation that's both refreshing and satisfying! Adapted from Ina Garten's Barefoot Contessa.

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Calories 240.8 kcal
Protein 9g
Rating 5.0 (8 Reviews)
Bibb Salad With Basil Green Goddess Dressing

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Bibb Salad With Basil Green Goddess Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • Scallion
  • Fresh Basil Leaf
  • Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon anchovy paste
  • Kosher Salt
  • Fresh Ground Black Pepper
  • Light Sour Cream
  • Bibb Lettuce
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes

How to Make Bibb Salad With Basil Green Goddess Dressing

  1. Combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 scallions (thinly sliced), 1 cup packed fresh basil leaves, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon anchovy paste, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a blender. Blend until completely smooth.
  2. Add 1/4 cup sour cream and blend until just combined. Do not over-process.
  3. Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld (optional, but recommended).
  4. Cut each head of Bibb lettuce into quarters. Remove the core from each quarter and gently separate the leaves.
  5. Arrange the lettuce quarters on 6 salad plates.
  6. Cut 1 pint of cherry or grape tomatoes in half and arrange on the plates with the lettuce.
  7. Drizzle the chilled Green Goddess dressing generously over the salad.
  8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

41 g

Sugar

20g

Fat

22g

Carbs

6g