Are you a fan of nutty, creamy flavors? Look no further! Tahini is a staple ingredient in many cuisines, particularly Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking. This versatile paste made from ground sesame seeds is a game-changer for adding depth and richness to a variety of dishes – from savory soups and sauces to sweet treats and snacks.
In this article, we’ll dive into the wonderful world of tahini recipes, featuring 20 creamy and delicious ideas that will elevate your cooking and baking. From classic hummus and baba ghanoush to innovative uses in sweet treats like cookies and energy balls, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian or just looking for new flavors to add to your repertoire, these recipes are sure to satisfy.
In the next few sections, we’ll explore some of our favorite tahini recipes, from comforting soups and stews to indulgent treats and snacks. So grab your apron, get ready to get creative, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of creamy tahini!
Lemon Garlic Tahini Dressing
Brighten up your salads with this refreshing and creamy lemon garlic tahini dressing. This tangy condiment combines the zesty flavor of lemons, the pungency of garlic, and the richness of tahini for a delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is emulsified and thickened.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Roasted Carrot and Tahini Soup
Roasted Carrot and Tahini Soup Recipe
Warm up with this creamy and comforting soup that combines the natural sweetness of roasted carrots with the nutty flavor of tahini. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup tahini paste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little bit of olive oil until softened.
4. Add roasted carrots, tahini paste, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Stir in Greek yogurt and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies
This recipe combines the richness of tahini with the sweetness of chocolate chips, creating a unique and delicious cookie. The nutty flavor of tahini adds depth and complexity to these chewy treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add tahini, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Spicy Tahini Noodles with Crispy Tofu
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the creaminess of tahini sauce with the crunch of crispy tofu.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (such as soba or udon)
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender, combine tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth.
3. Cut tofu into bite-sized pieces. Toss with cornstarch and fry in hot oil until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. Combine noodles and tahini sauce. Top with crispy tofu and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tahini Banana Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a creamy and nutritious breakfast bowl that combines the natural sweetness of bananas, the nutty flavor of tahini, and the freshness of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Sliced almonds or walnuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the banana, tahini, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add a pinch of salt and blend until well combined.
4. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with sliced nuts, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Mediterranean Tahini Stuffed Eggplant
Elevate your eggplant game with this flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish. A creamy tahini filling, combined with fresh herbs and spices, creates a delightful contrast to the tender roasted eggplant.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh.
3. In a bowl, mix together tahini, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each eggplant half with the tahini mixture, dividing it evenly.
5. Place the stuffed eggplants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggplants are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tahini Date Energy Balls
A nutritious and delicious treat that combines the creamy richness of tahini with the natural sweetness of dates, perfect for a quick energy boost or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine the oats, chopped dates, and tahini. Process until well combined.
2. Add the honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Process until a sticky dough forms.
3. Use your hands to shape the dough into small energy balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 8-10 balls.
4. Place the energy balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and chill.
Enjoy your nutritious and delicious Tahini Date Energy Balls!
Grilled Chicken with Tahini Yogurt Sauce
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this flavorful and creamy sauce made with tahini, yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush chicken with the tahini-yogurt sauce during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (including grilling time)
Tahini Avocado Toast with Chili Flakes
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this creamy, spicy, and nutritious toast! This simple recipe combines the richness of tahini, the creaminess of avocado, and a kick from chili flakes on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 1/4 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges, red onion, or cherry tomatoes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on each slice.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the tahini and chili flakes.
4. Spoon the tahini-chili mixture over the avocado.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with lemon wedges, red onion, or cherry tomatoes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sweet Potato and Tahini Hummus
This creamy hummus gets a boost of sweetness from roasted sweet potatoes, paired with the nutty flavor of tahini. Perfect as a dip for veggies or pita bread!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce sweet potatoes with a fork and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Let sweet potatoes cool, then peel and chop into large pieces.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted sweet potatoes, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
4. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down sides as needed.
5. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting sweet potatoes), 5 minutes (blending hummus)
Tahini Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes
This creamy pasta dish combines the nutty flavor of tahini with the bright, tangy taste of roasted tomatoes. A perfect summer meal that’s quick to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss tomato halves with garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, pesto, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the tahini-pesto mixture and roasted tomatoes. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves (optional).
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Tahini Drizzled Falafel Wraps
A flavorful and refreshing Middle Eastern-inspired wrap filled with crispy falafel, creamy tahini sauce, and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of store-bought or homemade falafel
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Chopped cucumber, tomato, and red onion for topping
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake falafel according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and baking for 5-7 minutes.
4. Assemble wraps by spreading a layer of tahini sauce on each pita, followed by a few pieces of falafel, some chopped veggies, and a sprinkle of parsley or cilantro.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including baking time)
Baked Salmon with Tahini Glaze
This recipe is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, featuring baked salmon topped with a creamy tahini glaze. The combination of omega-rich fish and healthy fats from the tahini makes for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, honey, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tahini Oatmeal with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a creamy and sweet breakfast bowl that combines the nutty flavor of tahini with the warmth of maple syrup. This unique oatmeal recipe is perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their morning routine.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon tahini
– 1/4 cup water or plant-based milk
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– Pinch of salt
– Optional toppings: sliced banana, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or plant-based milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has a creamy consistency.
3. Stir in the tahini and maple syrup until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve the oatmeal hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tahini Roasted Cauliflower Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of roasted cauliflower with the creamy richness of tahini, all wrapped up in a tangy and herby package. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of black pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
5. Combine roasted cauliflower with the tahini sauce, parsley, and feta cheese (if using).
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegan Tahini Cheesecake
This creamy vegan cheesecake is a game-changer for those looking for a dairy-free dessert option. The tahini adds a rich and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 16 oz silken tofu
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients and press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine cheesecake ingredients and blend until smooth.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tahini Miso Ramen
This recipe combines the creamy richness of tahini with the savory umami of miso to create a comforting and nutritious bowl of ramen. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 1 tablespoon white miso paste
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 8 ounces ramen noodles
– Sliced scallions, bean sprouts, and bok choy for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth, tahini, miso paste, and soy sauce. Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Add sesame oil to the broth and stir to combine.
5. Divide noodles among bowls. Ladle hot broth over top.
6. Garnish with scallions, bean sprouts, and bok choy, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tahini and Honey Granola Bars
These chewy granola bars are perfect for a quick energy boost, packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, nuts, and seeds. With the added sweetness of honey and the creaminess of tahini, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 tablespoons tahini
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, almonds, and sunflower seeds.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, tahini, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tahini Turmeric Latte
This creamy and comforting latte combines the nutty flavor of tahini with the warm, earthy taste of turmeric, perfect for a relaxing morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or coconut)
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the non-dairy milk over low heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, turmeric, cinnamon, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add the warmed milk to the tahini mixture, blending until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding maple syrup if desired.
5. Pour into a mug and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (including warming time)
Tahini Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed bell peppers, this recipe combines the creamy richness of tahini with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cooked brown rice, tahini, water, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling them as full as possible.
4. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Roast for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue roasting for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with the creamy and nutritious world of tahini! This article showcases 20 mouth-watering recipes that feature tahini as the star ingredient. From classic dishes like Lemon Garlic Tahini Dressing and Mediterranean Tahini Stuffed Eggplant, to sweet treats like Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies and Vegan Tahini Cheesecake, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to add some healthy fats to your diet or simply spice up your cooking routine, these recipes are sure to inspire. So go ahead, get creative with tahini, and enjoy the delicious ride!
