Go Back
–+ servings
Did you try this recipe?Click here and let us know how it was! Tag @apurepalate and #apurepalate! on Instagram
Jar of tahini dressing surrounded by salad ingredients and a gold spoon

Easy Tahini Dressing Recipe

This creamy, dairy-free Tahini Dressing comes together in under 10 minutes and is delicious on salads, grain bowls, roasted veggies, or as a dip with warm pita. A bright, nutty sauce that elevates everything it touches!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Blending & Seasoning 3 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Course Dressings, Sauces, Vinaigrettes
Cuisine American, Mediterranean
Servings 6 people
Calories 181 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup tahini (hulled, well-stirred)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1.5 tbs maple syrup (or honey,agave, or date syrup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 ice cubes
  • 1/4 tsp Kosher salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Juice the lemon and measure out all ingredients.
  • In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, maple syrup (or sweetener of choice) , garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
  • While blending, add 2 ice cubes (or very cold water) one at a time until the dressing becomes creamy and light.
  • Add kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Blend briefly to combine.
  • Use immediately or store in a sealed jar in the fridge.

Notes

  • Tahini Tip: Use high-quality, well-stirred tahini for the best flavor and consistency. Some tahini brands are thicker than others. Adjust the amount of ice water as needed to achieve your preferred texture.
  • Cold Water = Creamy Dressing: Blending in ice water is the secret to creating a light, whipped texture. The cold temperature helps suspend the fat molecules in the tahini, making your dressing ultra-smooth and airy.
  • Sweetener Swaps: While maple syrup is my favorite, you can substitute honey, agave, or even date syrup. Just aim for balance; a touch of sweetness rounds out the richness of the sesame.
  • Make It Your Own: This tahini dressing is endlessly versatile! Add herbs, miso, lemon zest, or spices to create flavor variations for different cuisines.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If it thickens while chilling, stir in a splash of cold water before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 181kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 105mgPotassium: 121mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 14IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 38mgIron: 1mg