Sesame Marinade

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: Asian

A savory sesame marinade with a nutty flavor, soy and lemon notes, perfect for enhancing grilled meats or vegetables with an Asian-inspired twist.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup oil
  • 1/3 cup sesame seed
  • 4 medium onions
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 cloves crushed garlic

Instructions

  1. Brown sesame seed in oil.
  2. Mix all ingredients in a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
  3. Marinate the desired ingredients overnight.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider toasting the sesame seeds before adding them to the marinade. If you want to reduce the sodium content, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. You can also substitute the oil with a sesame oil for a more intense flavor. If you're looking for a vegan option, this marinade works well with tofu or tempeh. Pair it with a refreshing side like Crispy Slaw.

Serving Suggestions

This sesame marinade is perfect for enhancing grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables. Serve marinated chicken skewers with a side of rice or quinoa for a satisfying meal. For a unique twist, drizzle over a salad or use it as a dipping sauce for appetizers. It pairs beautifully with Diabetic-Fizzy Punch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat marinated ingredients, a quick sauté in a hot skillet will help to preserve their texture and flavor. If marinating proteins, ensure they are cooked thoroughly before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sesame Marinade contains roughly 473 calories, with 8g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

473 kcal 24% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.4g 17% DV
Total Fat 37.7g 48% DV
Carbs 32.4g 12% DV
Fiber 8.3g 30% DV
Sugar 0.9g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 282.6mg 12% DV
Potassium 497mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.2mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 61.1mg 68% DV
Calcium 72.8mg 6% DV
Iron 2.7mg 15% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Soy Sesame

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of oil in the marinade?

Yes, you can substitute the oil with other neutral oils like canola or avocado oil. However, using sesame oil will impart a richer flavor. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using a blend of oils, keeping sesame oil as a base for its distinctive taste.

How long should I marinate my ingredients?

For optimal flavor infusion, marinate your ingredients overnight. If you're short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes can still yield good results, but overnight will provide the best taste. Just ensure not to exceed 24 hours for meats to avoid texture changes.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This sesame marinade is great for meal prep as it can elevate various dishes throughout the week. Marinade proteins or vegetables in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and grill or sauté them fresh for quick meals. Pair with Vegan recipes for a delicious plant-based option.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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