Creamy Tahini Yogurt Dip with Fresh Cilantro
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with this luscious Tahini and Yogurt Dip. A harmonious blend of creamy yogurt and nutty tahini, this appetizer is enriched with fresh cilantro, zesty garlic, and a touch of vinegar for brightness. Perfectly paired with an array of crunchy vegetables or warm pita bread, this dish offers a delightful balance of taste and texture. Serve it at your next gathering, and it is sure to become a crowd favorite, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Southwest Asia while embodying a fresh, healthy twist.
4-6
Servings
75
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
plain yogurt
1 1/2 cups (none)
tahini
1/4 cup (none)
cilantro leaf
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
white vinegar
3 tablespoons (none)
garlic clove
1 (minced)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (none)
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
cayenne pepper
1 pinch (none)
small tomato
1 (finely chopped)
olive oil
to drizzle (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, combine the plain yogurt, tahini, finely chopped cilantro, white vinegar, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2
Using a wooden spoon, mix the ingredients well until they form a smooth, creamy consistency.
3
Transfer the yogurt and tahini mixture onto a small serving platter, spreading it evenly.
4
Garnish the top with the finely chopped tomato for a pop of color and freshness.
5
Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the top, adding richness to the dish.
6
Serve the dip immediately with an assortment of fresh vegetables (such as cucumber, bell pepper, and carrot) and warm pita bread for dipping. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
6g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Tahini Yogurt Dip?
It is a Middle Eastern inspired appetizer featuring a harmonious blend of creamy yogurt, nutty tahini, fresh cilantro, and zesty garlic.
Is this dip healthy?
Yes, this dip is considered a fresh and healthy choice, containing 75 calories per serving and nutritious ingredients like yogurt and vegetables.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings.
What are the main ingredients for this dip?
The primary ingredients include plain yogurt, tahini, fresh cilantro leaf, white vinegar, and a minced garlic clove.
Can I substitute plain yogurt with Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt for a thicker and even creamier consistency, though the nutritional values may vary slightly.
Is this Tahini Yogurt Dip gluten-free?
The dip itself is gluten-free; however, be sure to serve it with fresh vegetables or gluten-free bread instead of traditional pita to maintain a gluten-free meal.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.
Is the dip vegan?
No, the recipe uses dairy-based plain yogurt. To make it vegan, you would need to substitute the yogurt with a plant-based alternative.
What should I serve with this dip?
It pairs perfectly with crunchy vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots, as well as warm pita bread.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
While fresh cilantro provides the best flavor and color, you can use dried cilantro in smaller amounts if fresh is unavailable.
How do I store the leftovers?
Leftover dip should be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator.
How long does this dip stay fresh in the fridge?
When stored properly in a refrigerator, the dip typically stays fresh for up to 3 to 5 days.
Can I freeze the Tahini Yogurt Dip?
Freezing is not recommended because the yogurt may separate and lose its smooth, creamy texture upon thawing.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 75 calories per serving.
Is this dip spicy?
It contains a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle hint of heat, but it is generally considered mild.
What is tahini?
Tahini is a smooth paste made from toasted ground sesame seeds, commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.
Can I use lemon juice instead of white vinegar?
Yes, lemon juice is an excellent substitute for white vinegar and adds a nice citrus brightness to the dip.
Can I add more garlic if I like it strong?
Absolutely, you can increase the number of minced garlic cloves to suit your personal taste preferences.
What kind of tomato is best for the garnish?
A small, firm tomato such as a Roma or plum tomato is ideal for finely chopping and garnishing.
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Yes, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld. Just be sure to stir it again before serving and add the tomato garnish last.
Is this considered a Mediterranean dish?
Yes, with ingredients like tahini, yogurt, and olive oil, it fits perfectly within Mediterranean and Middle Eastern culinary traditions.
How much protein is in a serving?
Each serving provides about 2.5 grams of protein.
What is the fat content per serving?
The dip contains approximately 5 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the tahini and olive oil.
How many carbohydrates are in this dip?
There are roughly 6 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Do I need a food processor to mix this?
No food processor is needed; a medium bowl and a wooden spoon are sufficient to mix the ingredients into a smooth consistency.
Can I add other herbs?
Yes, herbs like fresh mint or parsley would also complement the flavors of tahini and yogurt beautifully.
What type of olive oil should I use?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for drizzling to provide the richest flavor.
Is this dip kid-friendly?
Generally yes, though you may want to omit the cayenne pepper if the children are sensitive to even mild spice.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Yes, this recipe is very easy to double or triple to accommodate a larger group of guests.
Does the recipe require any cooking?
No cooking is required; this is a simple, no-heat recipe that only involves mixing and assembly.