This creamy tahini dressing has become one of our favorite quick recipes. It's the healthy condiment that actually makes you crave vegetables—and our patients keep asking for seconds. Made with just 5 simple ingredients, this homemade tahini sauce is vegan, gluten-free, and delivers both nutrition and flavor.
Why We Recommend This Recipe
- Truly Simple: Ready in 5 minutes with minimal cleanup
- Nutrient-Dense: Rich in protein, healthy fats, and sesame lignans that support liver function
- Incredibly Versatile: Works as a salad dressing, vegetable dip, or sandwich spread
- Dietary-Friendly: Vegan, gluten-free, and suitable for most eating patterns
- Pantry Basics: Uses ingredients you likely already have on hand
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- ¼ cup water
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 5 minutes
- Combine ingredients: Add tahini, fresh lemon juice, water, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper to a small bowl.
- Mix thoroughly: Whisk well with a fork until smooth and creamy. The mixture will initially seize up, then become silky as you continue whisking.
- Adjust consistency: If too thin, add more tahini. If too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust: Season with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
Ways to Use This Dressing
- Salad base: Transforms mixed greens, kale, or shredded vegetables into something genuinely appealing
- Bowl component: Elevates grain bowls, Buddha bowls, or Mediterranean-style plates
- Vegetable enhancer: Makes both raw and roasted vegetables more satisfying
- Sandwich spread: A nutrient-rich alternative to mayonnaise
- Protein companion: Pairs beautifully with grilled fish, chicken, or plant-based proteins
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. The dressing will thicken when cold—simply whisk in a tablespoon of water to restore the creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestion
We often recommend pairing this tahini dressing over a large salad alongside 1 cup of miso soup for a complete, balanced meal that supports digestive health and provides sustained energy.
Simple Variations
- Fresh Herb Version: Add chopped parsley, cilantro, or dill for additional liver support
- Gentle Heat: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes (if tolerated)
- Slightly Sweet: Add 1 teaspoon raw honey or maple syrup to balance acidity
- Mediterranean Style: Incorporate dried oregano and a drizzle of quality olive oil
Why Tahini?
Tahini (ground sesame seeds) provides calcium, magnesium, and sesame lignans that support Phase 2 liver detoxification. Combined with fresh lemon juice and garlic—both excellent for digestive function—this dressing does more than taste good. It actively supports your body's natural processes.
Perfect for meal prep and making healthy eating genuinely enjoyable.