Beef Free Lemon-Tahini Dressing
Bright, nutty, and tangy all at once, this lemon-tahini dressing is the kind of sauce that makes everything it touches taste more interesting. Sesame paste forms the creamy backbone, while fresh lemon juice and a hint of garlic keep things lively and sharp. A pinch of cumin adds just enough warmth to round out the flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. The technique is simple but satisfying — the tahini seizes up at first, then gradually loosens into a silky, pourable consistency as you whisk in olive oil and cold water. It's completely plant-based and built entirely from pantry staples, so there's no need to scan labels for hidden animal-derived additives. Drizzle it over roasted vegetables, grain bowls, salads, or falafel, and it delivers every single time. Make a batch ahead and keep it in the fridge — just stir in a splash of cold water to bring it back to life.
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Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
- ⅓ cup tahini
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
- 1 small garlic clove, finely grated or minced
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 3–4 tbsp cold water, plus more as needed
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin until combined — the mixture will seize and look thick and paste-like at first.
- 2
Drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously until incorporated.
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