Tree Nut Free Classic Tahini Sauce
Creamy, tangy, and deeply savory, this classic tahini sauce comes together in minutes with just a handful of pantry staples. The magic happens when ice-cold water is whisked in gradually, transforming a thick, seized paste into a silky, pourable sauce that coats everything beautifully. Bright lemon juice and a hint of cumin keep the flavor balanced and lively, while a touch of fresh parsley adds color and a clean, herby finish if you choose to use it. Since tahini is made purely from sesame seeds, this sauce is naturally free from tree nuts — no substitutions or workarounds needed. It's the kind of condiment that makes roasted vegetables, grilled proteins, grain bowls, and warm flatbreads taste like they came from a restaurant. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and give it a quick stir before serving again — it keeps well and only gets better as the garlic mellows.
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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.
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