Get ready to fall in love with the rich, nutty flavor of tahini! This versatile ingredient is a staple in many Middle Eastern cuisines, and once you start experimenting with it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. From savory dips and sauces to sweet treats and indulgent desserts, tahini is the ultimate chameleon ingredient.
In this article, we’re counting down our top 20 creamy tahini recipes that are perfect for any meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a healthy snack, a quick lunch, or a decadent dessert, these recipes have got you covered. From classic hummus to innovative desserts and everything in between, we’ve got the perfect recipe to satisfy your tahini cravings.
Classic Hummus with Tahini
This classic hummus recipe is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, made with simple ingredients and a smooth texture that’s perfect for dipping veggies or pita bread. With its creamy tahini flavor, it’s a delicious addition to any snack platter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
– Optional: paprika or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
3. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil and water.
5. Continue blending until the hummus is creamy and smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve with pita bread or veggies, garnished with paprika or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking, just blending.
Tahini Salad Dressing
Elevate your salads with this creamy and nutty Tahini Salad Dressing, perfect for topping mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Blend time: 2-3 minutes
Roasted Carrot and Tahini Soup
Roasted Carrot and Tahini Soup Recipe
Warm up with this creamy and comforting soup, featuring roasted carrots and the nutty flavor of tahini.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 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, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30 minutes, or until carrots are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted carrots, tahini, vegetable broth, and cumin.
5. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies
Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
A delicious twist on classic chocolate chip cookies, these treats combine the nutty flavor of tahini with dark chocolate chips for a unique and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
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. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in tahini and eggs.
4. Stir in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Tahini Pasta
A refreshing and creamy pasta dish that combines the brightness of lemon with the nutty flavor of tahini. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tahini Banana Smoothie
This creamy and nutritious smoothie combines the richness of tahini with the natural sweetness of banana, making it a perfect breakfast or snack option. With its velvety texture and nutty flavor, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tsp honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the banana, tahini, and almond milk.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey if desired for an extra touch of sweetness.
4. Taste and adjust the consistency by adding ice cubes if you prefer a thicker or colder smoothie.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy!
Tahini Roasted Cauliflower
Elevate your cauliflower game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the nutty flavor of tahini with a hint of sweetness. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this roasted cauliflower will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower head and remove leaves and stem.
3. Cut into florets and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the tahini mixture over the cauliflower, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tahini and Date Energy Balls
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these no-bake energy balls packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dates, soaked and chopped
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine oats, dates, and tahini. Process until well combined.
2. Add honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Process until a dough forms.
3. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Tahini Garlic Sauce
A creamy and flavorful condiment perfect for topping vegetables, meats, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water.
2. Blend on high speed for about 30 seconds, or until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl or airtight container.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Cook time: None
– Total time: 5 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Tahini Garlic Sauce!
Tahini Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the nutty goodness of tahini with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for an extra burst of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together tahini, cooked rice, parsley, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the tahini mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Roast for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue roasting for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tahini Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this creamy and nutritious Tahini Avocado Toast recipe. With the richness of tahini, the creaminess of avocado, and the crunch of whole grain bread, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tbsp of tahini
– 1/4 tsp of salt
– 1/4 tsp of lemon juice
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the tahini, salt, and lemon juice.
4. Spread the tahini mixture evenly over the avocado.
5. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tahini Drizzled Falafel
Add a creamy twist to classic falafel with this simple and flavorful recipe. Crunchy, spicy falafel patties are paired with a rich tahini sauce for a delicious and satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Tahini sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mash chickpeas using a fork.
3. Add flour, baking powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stir in garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
5. Shape into patties and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve with tahini sauce drizzled on top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tahini Yogurt Dip
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and nutty Tahini Yogurt Dip! Made with just a few simple ingredients, this dip is perfect for veggie sticks, pita chips, or as a spread on your favorite crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt to taste
– Optional: paprika and/or chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting the seasoning as needed with salt or additional lemon juice if desired.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with paprika and/or chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply mix and chill.
Enjoy your delicious Tahini Yogurt Dip!
Tahini Glazed Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this flavorful and nutritious dish. This recipe combines the richness of tahini with the freshness of citrus, creating a delightful harmony on your palate.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and honey until smooth.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the tahini glaze evenly over the salmon, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tahini and Honey Granola
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this crunchy and nutritious granola recipe infused with the rich flavors of tahini and honey.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts)
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together tahini and honey until smooth. Add olive oil and mix well.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly toasted, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tahini Spiced Noodles
Add a Middle Eastern twist to your noodles with this aromatic and flavorful recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in the tahini until smooth.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss with the tahini mixture until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tahini Pumpkin Bread
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of pumpkin bread with the creamy richness of tahini, creating a unique and flavorful treat. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a special breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, tahini, milk, egg, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Tahini Miso Dressing
This creamy and savory dressing combines the nutty flavor of tahini with the umami taste of miso, perfect for adding a rich depth to your salads or using as a marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, miso paste, apple cider vinegar, honey, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add garlic (if using) and blend until well combined.
4. With the blender running, slowly add water and continue blending until the desired consistency is reached.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Tahini Roasted Sweet Potatoes
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy richness of tahini, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this tasty side dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub and poke some holes in the sweet potatoes. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
3. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, mix tahini, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic (if using) in a small bowl.
4. Once the sweet potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
5. Slice the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise and spread the tahini mixture evenly over each half.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes
Tahini Chocolate Mousse
Rich and creamy, this tahini chocolate mousse is a unique dessert that combines the nutty flavor of tahini with the decadence of dark chocolate. Perfect for impressing your friends and family with a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), melted
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter, tahini, and melted chocolate. Beat until smooth.
3. Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until no white streaks remain.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with the creamy, nutty goodness of tahini! From classic hummus and salad dressings to sweet treats like cookies and smoothies, these 20 recipes showcase the versatility of tahini. Discover how to use it as a sauce for roasted vegetables or as a base for healthy desserts. With options ranging from savory to sweet, there’s something for every meal and taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a new twist on old favorites or inspiration for your next cooking adventure, these creamy tahini recipes are sure to delight.
