Lemon Tahini Dressing
This lemon tahini dressing is nutty, savory, and bright with lemon — inspired by the cult-favorite Cafe Yumm! sauce and made at home in just 5 minutes with 6 simple ingredients. Naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Equipment
- Blender or food procesor
Ingredients
- ½ large lemon juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon liquid aminos or soy sauce
- ¼ cup tahini
- ¼ cup water plus more as needed
Instructions
- Add the lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup, garlic, liquid aminos, tahini, and ¼ cup water to a high-speed blender or food processor.
- Blend on high for about 1 minute until smooth, creamy, and pale.
- Check the consistency — if too thick, add water 1 tablespoon at a time and blend again until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust with additional liquid aminos for saltiness or lemon juice for brightness. Serve immediately or refrigerate.
Notes
- Tahini brand matters: For the best flavor, avoid bargain brands. Soom, Whole Foods 365, and Trader Joe's all blend smoothly without bitterness.
- Seized up? This is normal when tahini meets lemon juice. Keep blending and add warm water gradually — it will smooth out.
- Consistency: Use 3–6 tablespoons of water for drizzling; 2 tablespoons or less for a thicker dip or spread.
- Gluten-free: Use liquid aminos, coconut aminos, or tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight jar for 1–2 weeks. Stir in a splash of water before serving — it thickens when cold.
- Do not freeze.
Nutrition
Serving: 1/6 of the recipeCalories: 107kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 2.5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 12gSodium: 299mgFiber: 2g
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