Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
If you are looking for a vibrant, fresh dish that delights your taste buds while nourishing your body, this Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a harmonious blend of crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and chickpeas, all brought together by a luscious lemon tahini dressing that is tangy, creamy, and just a little bit zesty. Whether you need a quick lunch or a side for dinner, this salad is your new go-to, packing flavor, texture, and a healthy punch in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each contributing unique flavors and textures that make this salad so special. The freshness of the greens, the brightness of lemon, and the earthiness of tahini all come together beautifully.
- Spring salad mix: A variety of tender greens adds crunch and visual appeal.
- Grape or cherry tomatoes, halved: These add juicy bursts of sweetness that balance the dressing.
- Shallot, thinly sliced: Offers a subtle onion flavor without overpowering the salad.
- Micro greens (optional): Adds a delicate texture and an extra fresh note.
- Chickpeas (15 oz can), drained and rinsed: Provide hearty protein and a creamy texture.
- Mineral salt & pepper, to taste: Essentials for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.
- Tahini (4 tablespoons): This sesame paste is the creamy star of the dressing.
- Juice of one large lemon: Brightens the dressing with fresh acidity.
- Dash of mineral salt: Balances the flavors perfectly.
- Dash of garlic salt: Adds a subtle garlic punch to the dressing.
- Dash of red pepper flakes: Gives an inviting hint of heat.
- Water or more lemon juice (2–3 tablespoons): Adjusts the dressing consistency to your liking.
How to Make Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tahini Dressing
Start by placing the tahini in a small bowl along with the fresh lemon juice, mineral salt, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes. Whisk these together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add water or more lemon juice, a tablespoon at a time, while whisking, until the dressing reaches your desired pourable consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—it should be bright, tangy, and just a touch spicy.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base
Arrange your spring salad mix or preferred greens on a plate or in a large bowl. Scatter the halved grape or cherry tomatoes evenly over the greens, and add thinly sliced shallots for a mild bite. If you’re using micro greens, sprinkle them on top for an extra pop of freshness and a delicate crunch.
Step 3: Add the Chickpeas
Drain and rinse your chickpeas thoroughly to remove any canning liquid. Add about half of the chickpeas to your salad, reserving the rest for another use or as an extra topping. Chickpeas provide a satisfying texture and heartiness that turns this salad into a more filling meal.
Step 4: Drizzle and Toss
Drizzle your freshly made lemon tahini dressing generously over the salad. You can toss everything gently to evenly coat the ingredients with the dressing or serve it on the side if preferred. This final step ensures every bite bursts with vibrant flavor and creamy lemon goodness.
How to Serve Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Add crunchy toasted nuts like sliced almonds or pumpkin seeds for contrast, or sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese for a creamy, salty twist. Fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro can lift the salad with their bright, aromatic notes, making each forkful even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread to round out your meal. It works just as well as a refreshing starter or a light main dish during warmer days, balancing heavier dishes with its refreshing zest and satisfying textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the salad components in a clear glass bowl or mason jar for a stunning presentation if bringing it to a picnic or packing for lunch. You can also create individual salad bowls with neatly arranged ingredients and a drizzle of dressing on top, which feels more special and personalized.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover salad, store the dressing separately in an airtight container and keep the salad components refrigerated. This separation keeps the greens crisp and prevents sogginess. When ready to serve again, give the dressing a quick whisk and toss it into the salad fresh.
Freezing
Because this salad is fresh and delicate, freezing is not recommended. Ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes lose their texture after freezing and thawing, which can dampen the overall experience of the Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. If you want to warm the chickpeas for a cozy touch, heat them separately and add them to the salad once slightly cooled, preserving the crispness of the greens.
FAQs
Can I use different greens for this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the spring salad mix with baby spinach, arugula, kale, or any greens you love. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture, making the Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe your own.
Is tahini gluten-free and suitable for allergen-friendly diets?
Yes, tahini is naturally gluten-free as it is made from sesame seeds. However, always check the packaging to ensure there are no cross-contamination risks if you have severe allergies.
What if I don’t have fresh lemons, can I use bottled lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is preferred for its bright and vibrant flavor, bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. Just use it sparingly and taste as you go, since bottled juice can sometimes be more acidic or processed tasting.
Can I turn this salad into a vegan meal?
This salad is naturally vegan when you skip optional garnishes like feta cheese. The lemon tahini dressing is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for vegan diets.
How long does the dressing keep in the fridge?
The lemon tahini dressing will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken or separate slightly.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely encourage you to give this Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe a try, whether you want a quick, satisfying meal or a beautiful, healthy dish to share. Its combination of flavors and textures feels both comforting and refreshing, making every bite a joy. Once you discover how easy, tasty, and versatile this salad is, I bet it will become one of your favorites too.
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Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing combines fresh salad greens, sweet cherry tomatoes, crisp shallots, and protein-rich chickpeas, all tossed in a creamy, tangy lemon tahini dressing. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal, this salad brings a refreshing Middle Eastern-inspired flavor to your table in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- Spring salad mix or any salad mix you prefer – enough for 2 servings
- Handful of grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced
- Microgreens (optional)
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- Mineral salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Tahini Dressing
- 4 tablespoons tahini
- Juice of one large lemon
- Dash of mineral salt
- Dash of garlic salt
- Dash of red pepper flakes
- 2 – 3 tablespoons water or lemon juice, as needed to thin the dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the Tahini Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, mineral salt, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Gradually add water or lemon juice, stirring continuously until you reach the desired creamy but pourable consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble the Salad: On a serving plate or bowl, arrange the salad mix, halved grape or cherry tomatoes, sliced shallots, and microgreens if using. Add half of the rinsed chickpeas over the greens.
- Dress and Serve: Drizzle the prepared lemon tahini dressing generously over the salad. Sprinkle the remaining chickpeas on top and season with mineral salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Toss gently if desired and serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh lemon juice with lime juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.
- Microgreens are optional but add a lovely texture and nutrition boost.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your spice tolerance.
- For a nuttier dressing, toast the tahini lightly before mixing.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day; dress just before serving to keep greens crisp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
