A creamy and crunchy tahini salad is the perfect way to enjoy a refreshing, healthy, and satisfying meal. With its blend of textures and flavors, it will surely be a hit at any gathering or as part of your weekly meal prep. Whether you’re a tahini lover or just looking for a new salad to add to your rotation, this recipe will not disappoint. Enjoy the delicious combination of creamy tahini dressing with crunchy fresh vegetables and toppings!
The Richness of Tahini
Tahini, made from ground sesame seeds, is the star of this salad. It provides a creamy, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh, crunchy vegetables. Tahini is also packed with healthy fats and nutrients, making this salad not only delicious but nutritious too.
The Crispiness of Fresh Veggies
The secret to a truly satisfying salad is the balance between creamy and crunchy. For the crunch factor, we’re using fresh vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and radishes. These veggies bring a refreshing bite that complements the creaminess of the tahini dressing perfectly.
Ingredients for a Creamy and Crunchy Tahini Salad
Fresh Veggies
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup radishes, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed greens (such as spinach or arugula)
Cucumber, Bell Peppers, and More
Cucumber and bell peppers add both color and crunch, while cherry tomatoes and radishes bring a bit of sweetness and sharpness to the salad. Mixed greens provide a fresh base for all the other ingredients.
Tahini Dressing Ingredients
- ¼ cup tahini
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons water (more if needed for thinning)
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Magic of Lemon and Garlic
The lemon juice adds brightness to the dressing, cutting through the richness of the tahini, while the garlic provides a savory kick that elevates the flavors of the salad. Olive oil helps to create a smooth, silky texture for the dressing.
Crunchy Toppings
- ¼ cup roasted almonds or sunflower seeds
- ¼ cup crispy chickpeas (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Nuts, Seeds, or Crispy Chickpeas
The crunch comes from roasted almonds or sunflower seeds, but if you want an extra crunch factor, crispy chickpeas are a fantastic addition. Sesame seeds also tie the flavors together and add another layer of nuttiness.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Creamy and Crunchy Tahini Salad
Prepping the Veggies
- Wash all the vegetables thoroughly.
- Slice the cucumber and radishes thinly to maintain their crunch.
- Chop the bell peppers and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Arrange all the veggies in a large salad bowl with the mixed greens.
Making the Creamy Tahini Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and water.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- If the dressing is too thick, add more water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Tossing Everything Together
- Drizzle the creamy tahini dressing over the veggies.
- Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated with the dressing.
Adding the Crunchy Toppings
- Sprinkle the roasted almonds or sunflower seeds over the top of the salad.
- Add crispy chickpeas if using.
- Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that final crunch.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Tahini Salad
How to Balance Creamy and Crunchy
To get the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, make sure your veggies are fresh and crisp. You can also toast your nuts or seeds for extra crunch and flavor. If you’re adding crispy chickpeas, make sure to add them just before serving so they stay crunchy.
Storing Leftovers
This salad is best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in the fridge. The veggies will stay crisp for about 2 days, and the dressing will last up to a week in an airtight container.
Nutritional Information of
Calories and Macronutrient Breakdown
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving (without optional toppings)
- Fat: 18 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Protein: 6 grams
Health Benefits of Tahini and Veggies
Tahini is rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making it a great addition to any diet. The fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the crunchy nuts and seeds add extra fiber and healthy fats, creating a well-rounded meal or side dish.
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