If you’re searching for a fresh, vibrant dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, look no further than this Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe. This salad bursts with verdant greens, juicy tomatoes, and the satisfying creaminess of a tangy, homemade tahini dressing brightened by fresh lemon juice. It’s the perfect light lunch or a refreshing side that brings a lively pop of flavor to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned salad enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of wholesome greens, this recipe offers an easy yet impressive way to enjoy a healthy, crowd-pleasing meal in minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe truly shine is its simplicity and the thoughtful selection of fresh ingredients. Each component plays a vital role: the salad mix adds a mild, leafy crunch; tomatoes bring bursts of sweetness and color; chickpeas provide hearty protein; and the lemon tahini dressing delivers a creamy, tangy finish that ties everything together beautifully.
- Spring salad mix: Choose your favorite greens to provide a tender, flavorful base for the salad.
- Grape or cherry tomatoes, halved: These add juicy sweetness and vibrant red color, making the salad visually stunning and tasty.
- Shallot, thinly sliced: Offers a subtle sharpness that cuts through the creaminess of the dressing.
- Micro greens (optional): A delicate, fresh garnish that adds texture and a hint of peppery flavor.
- Chickpeas (1 can, drained and rinsed): Adds protein and a hearty texture, perfect for keeping you full and satisfied.
- Mineral salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors harmoniously.
- Tahini (4 tablespoons): The creamy sesame seed paste that forms the star of the dressing’s rich, nutty base.
- Lemon juice from one large lemon: Provides bright acidity that balances the tahini’s earthiness.
- Garlic salt (dash): Adds a hint of savory, garlicky warmth.
- Red pepper flakes (dash): For just a subtle kick of heat that livens up the dressing.
- Water or additional lemon juice (2–3 tablespoons): Used to thin the dressing to the perfect pourable consistency.
How to Make Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tahini Dressing
Start by placing the tahini, fresh lemon juice, mineral salt, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes into a small bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. At first, the mixture might feel thick, but don’t worry—that’s where the water or extra lemon juice comes in. Add it gradually, stirring until the dressing reaches a silky, pourable consistency that will coat your salad beautifully.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base
On a large plate or in a bowl, layer your spring salad mix evenly. Scatter the halved grape tomatoes over the greens, spreading their sweetness throughout the salad. Sprinkle the thinly sliced shallots on top—these add a subtle zing that complements the creamy dressing.
Step 3: Add Chickpeas and Micro Greens
Include half of the rinsed chickpeas on your salad, gently tossing some into the mix and reserving the rest for topping. If you’re using micro greens, scatter them now for a delicate garnish that adds a peppery, fresh finish.
Step 4: Drizzle and Toss
Finally, take your homemade lemon tahini dressing and drizzle it generously over the salad. Use tongs or salad forks to toss everything together lightly, ensuring every leaf and ingredient is kissed with the rich, citrusy dressing. Top with the rest of the chickpeas for an inviting and hearty finish.
How to Serve Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, consider sprinkling toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh parsley over the salad. These simple garnishes add a touch of crunch and freshness that elevate the overall presentation and flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or warm crusty bread. It also shines as a light meal on its own, especially on busy days when you want something healthy without fuss.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in individual mason jars for a charming picnic or packed-lunch idea. Alternatively, layer the ingredients in clear glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors and textures, turning this simple Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, the greens stay crisp and the dressing remains fresh. Combine them just before serving to maintain that perfect texture and flavor balance.
Freezing
Due to the fresh greens and tomatoes, it’s best not to freeze this salad. The delicate textures won’t hold up well, and the dressing can separate upon thawing.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you’re serving it alongside a warm entree, you can prepare the salad ahead and let it sit out briefly before serving, but avoid reheating to preserve its fresh qualities.
FAQs
Can I use other greens instead of spring mix?
Absolutely! Spinach, arugula, kale, or a mix of your favorites can all work wonderfully. Each will bring a slightly different texture and flavor, making the salad your own.
Is this dressing suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe is completely vegan. It uses plant-based ingredients and no animal products, making it perfect for vegan and dairy-free diets.
How long does the dressing keep in the fridge?
The lemon tahini dressing keeps well in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Just give it a quick whisk before using, as separation is natural.
Can I add other veggies to the salad?
Definitely! Cucumbers, radishes, shredded carrots, or bell peppers all add delightful crunch and flavor that complement the dressing beautifully.
What can I use if I don’t have tahini?
If tahini isn’t on hand, you can use creamy nut butter like almond or cashew butter, but the flavor will differ. Peanut butter is less ideal due to its strong taste, but in a pinch, it can work.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe enough if you want a quick, fresh, and utterly satisfying meal. It’s one of those go-to dishes that feels like a treat every time without requiring hours in the kitchen. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and watch how this simple salad becomes a shining favorite in your culinary repertoire.
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Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and nutritious Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing, perfect for a quick, healthy meal. This salad combines fresh spring greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and protein-rich chickpeas, all topped with a creamy, tangy lemon tahini dressing that is easy to whip up in 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
- Micro greens, optional, small handful
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- Mineral salt & pepper, to taste
Dressing Ingredients
- 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 Tahini Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, mineral salt, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes until smooth and combined.
- Adjust Dressing Consistency: Gradually add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water or additional lemon juice, whisking until the dressing reaches a pourable consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble Salad: In a serving bowl or plates, arrange the spring salad mix, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced shallots, and optional micro greens evenly.
- Add Chickpeas: Spread half of the drained and rinsed chickpeas over the salad.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared lemon tahini dressing evenly over the salad ingredients and chickpeas.
- Serve: Optionally, toss gently before serving or leave as is to enjoy the contrasting textures and flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your preferred spice level.
- For a vegan and gluten-free meal, ensure the tahini and other ingredients are certified accordingly.
- Add avocado or nuts for extra creaminess and crunch.
- Leftover dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
