Cashew Free Classic Tahini Sauce
Creamy, bright, and endlessly versatile, this tahini sauce comes together in minutes with nothing more than a whisk and a bowl. The base is pure sesame paste blended with fresh lemon juice, garlic, a pinch of cumin, and just enough ice water to coax it into a silky, pourable drizzle. That little trick of adding ice water one tablespoon at a time is what transforms the thick, seized paste into something impossibly smooth — it's genuinely satisfying to watch it happen. Store-bought versions can be hit or miss, and many creamy sauces sneak in tree nuts or are processed on shared equipment, so making your own from scratch puts you fully in control. This recipe is naturally free from any nut-based additions, relying entirely on sesame tahini for its rich, nutty depth. Spoon it over roasted vegetables, falafel, grain bowls, or grilled meats, or use it as a dipping sauce straight from the jar. A handful of fresh parsley stirred in at the end adds a pop of color and a herby lift that takes it from pantry staple to something you'll want on everything.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
- ½ cup tahini
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
- 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
- ¼ tsp fine salt
- ¼ tsp ground cumin
- 3–5 tbsp ice water, plus more as needed
- 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and cumin until the mixture seizes into a thick, pale paste.
- 2
Add the ice water 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition, until the sauce loosens to a smooth, pourable consistency that falls off the whisk in a slow, steady ribbon. Start with 3 tablespoons and add more for a thinner sauce.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!