By Sky Hanka, MS, NBC-HWC |
October 9, 2024
About this recipe
Indulge in the luscious flavors of this Creamy Lemon Tahini Dressing, an oil-free, nutrient-packed addition to your culinary toolkit. This dressing features tahini, a sesame seed paste rich in calcium and heart-healthy fats, providing a nutty, creamy base. Paired with the tangy freshness of lemon and sauerkraut, this dressing offers a unique, vibrant flavor profile that complements a wide variety of dishes. Silken tofu enhances the creamy texture, while maple syrup adds a touch of natural sweetness, balancing the bold flavors.
What’s so great about tahini?
Tahini is a powerhouse ingredient, often overlooked in Western cooking but widely celebrated in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines used in everything from dressings, hummus, baba-ganoush and more. Made from ground sesame seeds, tahini contains calcium, magnesium, and heart-healthy fats, making it a great alternative to oil-based dressings. The naturally nutty and creamy flavor of tahini pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.
- Calcium-Rich: Tahini is an rich source of calcium, which supports bone health and muscle function.
- Healthy Fats: High in unsaturated fats, tahini can be part of a balanced diet to support heart-health.
- Mineral Powerhouse: In addition to calcium, tahini is rich in magnesium and phosphorus, essential for bone and muscle function.
- Gut-Friendly: Paired with sauerkraut in this recipe, tahini adds prebiotic fibers, while sauerkraut contributes probiotics for a gut-healthy combination.
How to prepare your creamy lemon tahini dressing
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup tahini
- ½ cup silken tofu
- 2-3 tbsp sauerkraut + 2 tbsp liquid
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
- Salt to taste
Optional: freshly grated ginger, turmeric, cayenne for extra flavor and digestive benefits
Tools Needed
- High-speed blender or bullet blender
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Preparation
- Blend ingredients: Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Store: Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- A note on seasoning and adjusting consistency: The thickness of this dressing can be easily adjusted to suit different uses. For a thicker spread or dip, leave it as is. For a lighter drizzle or marinade, add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
How to enjoy your creamy lemon tahini dressing
This Creamy Lemon Tahini Dressing is incredibly versatile, adding flavor and depth to a wide variety of dishes:
- Salad Dressing: Perfect for brightening up green salads, grain bowls, or cold pasta salads.
- Dip for Veggies and Snacks: A great companion for raw or roasted vegetables, pita bread, or healthy chips.
- Sauce for Falafel and Wraps: Drizzle over falafel, wraps, or gyros for a tangy Mediterranean twist.
- Complement to Roasted Vegetables: Enhance the flavor of roasted veggies like cauliflower, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
- Spread for Sandwiches and Toasts: Use as an alternative to traditional spreads, adding depth to sandwiches or avocado toasts.
- Base for Creamy Pasta Sauces: Mix with pasta water for a creamy, light sauce for your favorite noodles.
- Marinade for Grilled Items: Try it as a marinade for grilled chicken, tofu, or fish to infuse a nutty, zesty flavor.
Creamy Lemon Tahini Dressing (Oil-Free)
Total Time: 5
Servings: 1.25 cups
This Creamy Lemon Tahini Dressing is not just a simple sauce—it’s a flavorful, nutritious addition that can elevate any meal, from salads to grilled dishes. Whip up a batch and enjoy it all week long as a versatile, oil-free alternative to traditional dressings!
Ingredients
1/3 cup tahini
1/2 cup silken tofu (optional for added protein and nutrients)
4 tbsp sauerkraut + 2 tbsp liquid
1-2 tbsp maple syrup
1 lemon zested and juiced
2 cloves garlic
Salt to taste
Optional: grated ginger, turmeric, cayenne
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a blender, whisk, or shake together until smooth.
Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Nutritional Facts
Serving Size: 1 ounce
Calories Per Serving: 58 kcal
| Total Fat | 4.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | .6 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 32 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 3.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 2.3 g |
| Vitamin C | 4 % |
| Calcium | 4 % |
| Iron | 5$ |
| * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. | |