Lemon Tahini Dressing
A creamy, tangy, and nutty dressing perfect for salads, bowls, or as a dip. Made with just a few simple ingredients, it comes together in minutes and is naturally vegan.
For 8 servings
3 steps.
- 1
Step 1
TIPUsing a bowl and whisk gives you more control, but a small blender or food processor also works well for an extra smooth texture. - 2
Step 2
TIPDon't dump all the water in at once. Adding it slowly is the key to achieving a silky, emulsified dressing rather than a separated one. - 3
Step 3
TIPThe dressing will thicken as it chills. Before serving from the fridge, you may need to whisk in another teaspoon of water to loosen it up.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor and texture, use a high-quality, runny tahini. Stiffer, older tahini can be bitter and harder to work with.
- 2Always use cold water. It helps the tahini emulsify properly, creating a much creamier result than room temperature water.
- 3If you find the garlic flavor too sharp, you can let the minced garlic sit in the lemon juice for 10 minutes before mixing to mellow it out.
- 4Store the dressing in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
For a lower-calorie version, you can omit the olive oil and maple syrup. The dressing will be tangier and less sweet.
quickQuick
Use bottled lemon juice and pre-minced garlic from a jar to make this dressing in under two minutes.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Increase the maple syrup to 1 tablespoon for a slightly sweeter dressing that kids might prefer as a dip for vegetables.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Tahini is made from sesame seeds, which are an excellent source of healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that support heart and brain health.
Good Source of Minerals
Sesame seeds provide essential minerals like calcium for bone health, as well as iron and magnesium.
Dairy-Free Creaminess
This dressing offers a rich, creamy texture without any dairy, making it a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy choice. It's packed with healthy monounsaturated fats from tahini and olive oil, which are great for heart health. It's also dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan.