Lemon Tahini Dressing
A wonderfully creamy and tangy dressing made in just five minutes. This salt-free version uses tahini, fresh lemon, and garlic for a bright flavor that's perfect for drizzling over salads, grain bowls, or falafel.
For 4 servings
Combine the ingredients
1.In a small bowl or a blender, add the tahini, lemon juice, and minced garlic.2.Whisk or pulse briefly to combine the initial ingredients.Emulsify and adjust consistency
1.Slowly stream in the cold water while whisking or blending continuously. The mixture will first seize up and thicken before becoming smooth and creamy.2.Continue adding water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.3.For a thicker dip, use less water. For a thinner, pourable dressing, add a bit more.Serve or store
1.Taste and adjust lemon juice if needed.2.Use immediately or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use high-quality, runny tahini for the best flavor and texture. Avoid the hard paste at the bottom of the jar.
- 2Cold water is key to getting a creamy, emulsified dressing. It helps the tahini become smooth rather than clumpy.
- 3If the dressing tastes too bitter, a tiny drop of maple syrup or agave can balance the flavor without adding sweetness.
- 4The dressing will thicken in the refrigerator. Simply whisk in a teaspoon of water before serving to loosen it up.
- 5This dressing is intentionally salt-free. If your diet allows, you can add 1/4 tsp of salt to enhance the flavors.
- 6Serve drizzled over roasted vegetables, salads, falafel, or use as a dip for fresh veggies.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
For a lower-fat version, use 2 tablespoons of tahini and increase the water to achieve the right consistency. The flavor will be lighter.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Add 1 teaspoon of maple syrup to balance the natural bitterness of the tahini, making it more appealing to children.
high proteinHigh protein
Blend in 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt (if not vegan) or silken tofu to boost the protein content and make it even creamier.
quickQuick
Use a small personal blender or immersion blender to make the dressing in under a minute with minimal cleanup.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Healthy Fats
Tahini is made from sesame seeds, which are packed with healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that support heart health.
Good Source of Calcium
Sesame seeds are a surprising source of plant-based calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Sodium-Free Flavor
This dressing provides a rich, savory flavor without any added salt, making it ideal for those on a sodium-restricted diet.
Boosts Vitamin C
Fresh lemon juice is an excellent source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. Tahini is a great source of healthy fats, calcium, and protein. This version is also salt-free, making it excellent for low-sodium diets. Lemon juice adds a boost of Vitamin C.
