This healthy Lemon Herb Tahini is a smooth, delicious sauce with versatile uses. Whether used as a salad dressing or as a dipping sauce, this vegan and gluten-free lemon herb tahini sauce uses simple ingredients packed with nutrients and vitamins.
As usual, I am trying to come up with recipes enhanced with herbs that add nutritional value and unique taste. This recipe is not an exception. Cilantro and mint are key ingredients in this recipe. Despite the sophisticated-sounding “Lemon Herb Tahini” name, the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, using wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
What is lemon herb tahini?
Lemon herb tahini is a versatile condiment made with fresh herbs, tahini, yogurt, lemon, and olive oil. With its creamy texture and nutty flavor, this condiment serves as a versatile addition, perfect for use as a salad dressing or a flavorful dipping sauce. In addition, this lemon herb tahini sauce recipe is naturally vegan and is ideal when drizzled over roasted veggies.
The Ingredients to make lemon herb tahini sauce
tahini paste
while you can make a tahini paste from scratch by grounding sesame seeds in a food processor, you can also use storebought tahini pasta available in most grocery stores. Tahini pasta adds a nutty flavor and a smooth texture.
garlic clove
Smashed fresh garlic cloves impart a subtle hint to this flavorful sauce. If you are sensitive to fresh garlic like my daughter, use garlic powder or garlic in honey instead.
Fresh lemon juice and zest from one lemon
Since we use lemon juice and zest in this easy lemon herb tahini sauce, I recommend using a fresh lemon. It brightens the sauce and adds a fresh, citrusy flavor. The best lemons are fresh, organic lemons free of pesticides and other chemicals.
I also like to use orange zest and juice in sauces, like in this orange cranberry sauce.
extra virgin olive oil
just a little for extra creaminess
Cilantro and mint
While you may substitute for dried herbs, fresh herbs are best for this recipe. Cilantro and mint add a vibrant and fresh flavor to this dip. Don’t be afraid to use the stems; they are packed with flavors, too.
yogurt or water
Add water or yogurt to achieve the right consistency and taste balance.
Pepper and salt to taste
How to Make Lemon and Herb Sauce recipe
While you can combine tahini, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, chopped herbs, and minced garlic in a bowl and whisk together, I suggest using a mini food processor or high-speed blender. It helps you achieve a smoother consistency and chop all herbs, including garlic.
First step: zest the lemon peel and juice the lemon
Start by zesting the lemon peel from one lemon and then juicing the lemon. Wash the lemons thoroughly under hot water to eliminate all the pesticides. Use a vegetable peeler or zester to remove just the outer lemon zest. We don’t want to include the white inner pitch as it adds a bitter taste to the sauce. Once zested, juice the lemon.