18 Creamy Tahini Dressing Recipes for Every Salad

Carmen Eldridge

April 14, 2025

Get ready to take your salad game to the next level with these 18 creamy tahini dressing recipes! Tahini, a staple ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine, adds a rich and nutty flavor to any dish. When combined with various ingredients like garlic, lemon, and spices, it creates a creamy and addictive dressing that’s perfect for topping your favorite greens.

Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and straightforward or adventurous and bold, we’ve got you covered. From bright and citrusy flavors to spicy and smoky notes, these tahini dressings offer endless possibilities for customization and experimentation. So go ahead, get creative, and elevate your salads with these mouthwatering recipes!

Lemon Garlic Tahini Dressing

Lemon Garlic Tahini Dressing
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing and flavorful dressing!

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, garlic, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is emulsified and thickened.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

This Lemon Garlic Tahini Dressing is perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or using as a dip. Enjoy!

Spicy Maple Tahini Dressing

Spicy Maple Tahini Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this creamy, spicy, and sweet dressing that combines the richness of tahini with the warmth of maple syrup. Perfect for topping your favorite greens or using as a dip.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more red pepper flakes if desired.

Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.

Creamy Avocado Tahini Dressing

Creamy Avocado Tahini Dressing
This refreshing dressing combines the creaminess of avocado with the nutty flavor of tahini, perfect for topping salads or using as a dip. With just 5 ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying this deliciousness in no time!

Ingredients:

– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Peel the avocados and remove the pit.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado flesh, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: None!

This dressing makes about 1 cup and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy!

Herbed Tahini Yogurt Dressing

Herbed Tahini Yogurt Dressing
Elevate your salads and snacks with this creamy and aromatic herbed tahini yogurt dressing.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt and tahini until smooth.
2. Add the garlic, parsley, and dill. Whisk until well combined.
3. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling time)

Use this dressing as a topping for salads, grilled meats or vegetables, or as a dip for pita chips or crudités.

Roasted Garlic Tahini Dressing

Roasted Garlic Tahini Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this creamy and aromatic Roasted Garlic Tahini Dressing. Perfect for drizzling over mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats.

Ingredients:
• 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the chopped garlic in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted garlic, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and salt.
4. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting garlic), 2-3 minutes (blending)

Miso Ginger Tahini Dressing

Miso Ginger Tahini Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this creamy, savory, and healthy dressing! This Miso Ginger Tahini Dressing combines the umami flavor of miso paste with the spicy kick of ginger and the richness of tahini.

Ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 teaspoons white miso paste
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, soy sauce or tamari, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and miso paste.
2. Blend on high speed for about 30 seconds, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly add the water.
4. Continue blending for another 10-15 seconds, until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.

Turmeric Tahini Dressing

Turmeric Tahini Dressing
Elevate your salads and veggies with this vibrant and creamy Turmeric Tahini Dressing! This flavorful condiment combines the earthy warmth of turmeric with the nutty richness of tahini, perfect for adding a pop of color and depth to any dish.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, turmeric powder, and garlic powder.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more lemon juice if needed.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep) + blending time

Smoky Paprika Tahini Dressing

Smoky Paprika Tahini Dressing
Add a smoky twist to your salads with this creamy and flavorful dressing. This recipe is perfect for those who love the taste of tahini but want to mix things up.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding the olive oil in a slow stream.
3. Add the water and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cooking Time:

– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 10 minutes

Orange Sesame Tahini Dressing

Orange Sesame Tahini Dressing
Elevate your salads with this vibrant and aromatic dressing, combining the warmth of sesame oil with the brightness of orange.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, orange juice, sesame oil, vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: None

Pomegranate Molasses Tahini Dressing

Pomegranate Molasses Tahini Dressing
Pomegranate Molasses Tahini Dressing Recipe

Elevate your salads with this unique and flavorful dressing, combining the sweetness of pomegranate molasses with the creaminess of tahini.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Process until well combined and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: None (assemblage only)

Harissa Tahini Dressing

Harissa Tahini Dressing
This creamy and aromatic dressing combines the richness of tahini with the bold flavor of harissa, perfect for elevating your salads or using as a dip.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon harissa
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and harissa. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in the olive oil and water. Continue blending until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: None

Cilantro Lime Tahini Dressing

Cilantro Lime Tahini Dressing
This creamy and zesty dressing combines the nutty flavor of tahini with the freshness of cilantro and lime, perfect for elevating your salads or using as a dip.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lime juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Continue blending until the dressing is emulsified and creamy.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Date-Sweetened Tahini Dressing

Date-Sweetened Tahini Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this creamy and sweet date-sweetened tahini dressing, perfect for topping mixed greens or using as a dip.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup pitted dates, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. Drain and blend the soaked dates with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the tahini, date puree, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until creamy and smooth.
3. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of water and blend until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.

Enjoy your delicious date-sweetened tahini dressing on salads, veggies, or as a dip for your favorite snacks!

Balsamic Tahini Dressing

Balsamic Tahini Dressing
Elevate your salads with this rich and tangy Balsamic Tahini Dressing, perfect for those who crave a bold flavor combination. This creamy condiment is made by blending together the nutty goodness of tahini with the sweet and sour notes of balsamic vinegar.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, honey, and garlic powder.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly add water and continue blending until the desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Dill Pickle Tahini Dressing

Dill Pickle Tahini Dressing
This refreshing dressing combines the tanginess of dill pickles with the richness of tahini, perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or using as a dip.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill pickle
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, chopped pickle, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is well combined and has a thick, creamy consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)

Yield: Approximately 1 cup

Tahini Ranch Dressing

Tahini Ranch Dressing
Elevate your salad game with this creamy and tangy Tahini Ranch Dressing! This Middle Eastern-inspired condiment is perfect for veggie-packed bowls, as a dip, or as a sauce for grilled meats.

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons buttermilk (or regular milk)
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine tahini, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add buttermilk (or regular milk) and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl or airtight container for up to 1 week.

Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready in just minutes!

Peanut Butter Tahini Dressing

Peanut Butter Tahini Dressing
Elevate your salads or sandwich game with this rich and creamy peanut butter tahini dressing! This easy-to-make condiment combines the nutty flavors of tahini and peanuts for a unique and addictive taste experience.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, tahini, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in the water.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is well combined and has reached your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking time, just blend and serve.

Za’atar Lemon Tahini Dressing

Za
This refreshing dressing combines the warm, aromatic flavors of za’atar with the brightness of lemon and creaminess of tahini. Perfect for topping salads, grilled meats, or veggies.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons za’atar
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Add za’atar and blend until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.

Cooking Time:

– 2-3 minutes blending time
– Ready to use immediately

Summary

Discover the creamy power of tahini with these 18 delicious dressing recipes! From classic combinations like Lemon Garlic and Herbed Yogurt to international inspirations like Miso Ginger and Za’atar Lemon, there’s something for every salad lover. Spice up your greens with Spicy Maple or Smoky Paprika, add a tangy twist with Orange Sesame or Balsamic, or keep it fresh with Cilantro Lime or Date-Sweetened. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and zesty or rich and indulgent, these tahini dressings are sure to elevate your salad game!

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