Creamy Tahini Citrus Dressing
This Creamy Tahini Citrus Dressing is inspired by a delightful recipe from Jordan Maerin’s cookbook, 'Raw Foods for Busy People.' Known for its richly nutty flavor and smooth texture, this dressing elevates any salad with its refreshing citrus notes and subtle garlic kick. Whether you prefer the zesty tang of lemon juice or the sweetness of orange juice, this versatile dressing provides a nutritious burst of flavor that's perfect for drizzling over fresh greens or roasted vegetables. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it the ideal choice for busy individuals seeking a healthy and delicious meal enhancement.
2
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Tahini
2/3 cup (at room temperature)
Water
1 cup (as needed)
Lemon juice or orange juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
Garlic cloves
1 clove (minced)
Parsley
1/4 cup (chopped)
Salt
1 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper
1 pinch
Dates
1 (pitted (optional))
Instructions
1
In a blender or food processor, combine the tahini, water, your choice of lemon or orange juice, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and cayenne pepper.
2
If you want a touch of sweetness, add the pitted date at this stage.
3
Blend the mixture on high speed until it is completely smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, you can add a little extra water to reach your desired consistency.
4
Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary, adding more salt or citrus juice according to your preference.
5
Transfer to a jar or a sealed container and refrigerate for up to one week. Shake well before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Tahini Citrus Dressing?
It is a richly nutty and smooth dressing inspired by Jordan Maerin's cookbook 'Raw Foods for Busy People', featuring citrus and garlic notes.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 2 servings.
Is this dressing suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are plant-based and vegan-friendly.
Which citrus juice should I use?
You can use lemon juice for a zesty tang or orange juice for a touch of sweetness.
What should I do if the dressing is too thick?
If the consistency is too thick after blending, you can add a little extra water until you reach your desired thickness.
How long can I store this dressing?
You can refrigerate the dressing in a sealed container for up to one week.
Do I need a blender to make this?
Yes, a blender or food processor is recommended to achieve a completely smooth and creamy texture.
Is the date mandatory in this recipe?
No, the pitted date is optional and only used if you want to add a touch of natural sweetness.
Is this dressing spicy?
It contains a pinch of cayenne pepper, which provides a very subtle kick without being overly spicy.
What are the primary flavor profiles?
The dressing is known for its nutty tahini base, refreshing citrus notes, and a subtle garlic kick.
Can I use this as a dip for vegetables?
Yes, it is versatile enough to be used as a drizzle for fresh greens or a dip for roasted vegetables.
How much tahini is required?
The recipe calls for 2/3 cup of tahini at room temperature.
Should I use fresh or dried parsley?
The recipe recommends using 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley for the best flavor.
Do I need to shake the dressing before use?
Yes, it is best to shake the container well before serving as ingredients may settle during refrigeration.
Is this recipe considered a raw food dish?
Yes, it is inspired by a raw foods cookbook and uses raw, fresh ingredients.
Can I substitute the garlic?
While the garlic provides a signature kick, you can adjust the amount or omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
How much garlic is in the recipe?
The recipe uses one minced garlic clove.
Does this dressing contain oil?
This is an oil-free dressing recipe; the healthy fats come directly from the tahini.
Is the cayenne pepper optional?
Yes, if you are sensitive to heat, you can omit the cayenne pepper.
What type of container is best for storage?
A glass jar or any airtight sealed container works best for keeping the dressing fresh.
Is this a gluten-free recipe?
Yes, all ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
While the recipe suggests lemon or orange, lime juice can be used for a different citrus variation.
How much water is needed?
The recipe uses 1 cup of water, but you can add more as needed for consistency.
Can I make this dressing in advance?
Yes, it is an ideal recipe for meal prep as it lasts for a week in the fridge.
What is the calorie count for this dressing?
The specific nutritional data like calories is not provided, but it is considered a healthy, whole-food option.
Is it easy for beginners to make?
Absolutely, it simply involves combining ingredients and blending them until smooth.
Can I add other herbs?
Yes, while parsley is suggested, you can experiment with cilantro or dill for different flavors.
Does tahini need to be room temperature?
The recipe suggests room temperature tahini for easier blending and a smoother texture.
Is this dressing high in sodium?
It contains 1 teaspoon of salt for 2 servings; you can reduce this amount to suit your dietary needs.
Who is the original author of this inspiration?
The recipe is inspired by Jordan Maerin and her cookbook 'Raw Foods for Busy People'.