Tahini Salad
A fresh, tangy tahini salad featuring ripe tomatoes and cucumbers, perfect for light lunches or as a side dish with Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop tomatoes and cucumbers medium fine.
- Prepare tahini by mixing it with 2 tablespoons warm water.
- Add lemon juice and mix with the chopped tomatoes and cucumbers.
- Garnish with olive oil before serving.
- Optional: add chopped onions and dried mint for extra flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier tahini dressing, blend in a bit more warm water or lemon juice until desired consistency is reached. If you don't have tahini, almond or sunflower seed butter can serve as a suitable substitute. To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also elevate the dish, making it a delightful addition to your Mediterranean recipes collection.
Serving Suggestions
This Tahini Salad is perfect on its own as a light meal or served alongside grilled meats or fish. It pairs beautifully with Savory Rice Pilaf for a fulfilling dinner. For a complete spread, consider serving it with pita bread and a side of Minted Corn & Rice Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some crispness, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If reheating, do so gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture without compromising texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tahini Salad contains roughly 217 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1996mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
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 make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time. However, it's best to wait to add the tahini dressing until just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp and fresh.
What can I add for more protein?
To add protein, consider mixing in chickpeas or cooked quinoa. These ingredients not only boost the nutritional value but also complement the flavors of the tahini dressing beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! This Tahini Salad is entirely plant-based, making it a perfect choice for vegan recipes. The tahini provides healthy fats, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals.
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).