This Lemon Herb Tahini Sauce is a creamy, flavorful blend of fresh herbs and tangy lemon, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any dish. Whether you’re drizzling it over salads, roasted vegetables, or grain bowls, this versatile sauce is sure to elevate your meals with ease.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- Tahini: Provides a creamy base and nutty flavor, rich in healthy fats and protein.
- Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and tang, balancing the richness of tahini.
- Garlic: Enhances flavor with a bold, savory kick.
- Honey: Optional, adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tartness of lemon.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Dill, Mint): Adds fresh, aromatic flavors and vibrant color.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and adds depth to the sauce.
- Water: Adjusts consistency for a smooth, pourable texture.
Alternative Ingredients
- Tahini: Swap with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Use lime juice for a citrusy twist.
- Garlic: Try garlic powder for a milder flavor or roasted garlic for sweetness.
- Honey: Maple syrup or agave can be used for a plant-based sweetener.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Dill, Mint): Substitute with basil, cilantro, or tarragon for different herbal notes.
- Water: Use olive oil for a richer consistency or coconut milk for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Healthy Fats: The tahini provides a good source of monounsaturated fats, supporting heart health.
- Rich in Fiber: The fresh herbs contribute dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
- Protein Boost: Tahini is a plant-based source of protein, making it a great addition to vegetarian meals.
- Antioxidants: Garlic and fresh herbs are rich in antioxidants, helping to reduce inflammation and support immune health.
- Vitamin C: The lemon juice adds vitamin C, which is essential for skin health and immune function.
- Low in Sugar: With minimal added sugar (only optional honey), this sauce is a healthier choice compared to store-bought alternatives.
Expert Tips
Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water; for a thinner dressing, add more.
Make Ahead: This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, allowing the flavors to meld.
Blend for Smoothness: For an extra-smooth texture, blend the sauce on high for a minute or two.
Pairing: This sauce is perfect as a dip for fresh veggies, drizzled on grilled meats, or as a topping for grain bowls and wraps.
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap out the parsley, dill, and mint for other fresh herbs you have on hand, like cilantro or basil.
FAQs
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Absolutely! Almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter can be great alternatives.
Yes, as long as you skip the optional honey or use a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup.
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Just make sure to thaw and stir before serving.
You can use it as a salad dressing, veggie dip, topping for grain bowls, spread for wraps, or drizzle over roasted vegetables and grilled meats.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Herb Tahini Sauce pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or fresh salads. It also complements grilled chicken, lamb, or tofu for a satisfying meal.
Storage Suggestions
Store leftover Lemon Herb Tahini Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 1 month, just make sure to thaw and stir before using.
You’ll also enjoy:
- Farro with Blistered Tomatoes Pesto and Spinach
- Heirloom Tomato and Cucumber Salad
- Easy Beetroot and Cucumber Salad
- Pesto Orzo Pasta Salad
- Fennel Tomato Salad
- Marinated Beets
Lemon Herb Tahini Sauce
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup tahini
- juice of 1 large lemon
- 2 tbsp water (or more for desired consistency)
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for balance)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh mint finely chopped
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Add the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, honey (if using), parsley, dill, mint, and salt to a bowl. Stir until combined.1/3 cup tahini, juice of 1 large lemon, 1 clove garlic, 1 tsp honey, 1 tbsp fresh parsley, 1 tbsp fresh dill, 1 tsp fresh mint, salt
- Slowly add water, a tablespoon at a time, while stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.2 tbsp water
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve as a dressing, dip, or drizzle, and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust Consistency: Add more or less water to achieve your desired sauce thickness.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to swap the parsley, dill, and mint for other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro.
- Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the honey to taste.
- Storage: This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Shake or stir before serving.
- Versatility: Great for drizzling on salads, roasted veggies, grain bowls, or grilled meats!
Nutrition
Disclaimer: I am a health and wellness coach with a degree in health science from Arizona State University. However, I am not a doctor or registered dietitian. Any information or advice provided on this website is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any dietary or lifestyle changes, especially if you have a medical condition. The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice or a substitute for it.
Loved it. Using it with gyros. Very good!