Maple Tahini Dressing is the perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and tangy flavors that elevate any salad! This silky dressing combines the earthy richness of tahini with the natural sweetness of maple syrup and a splash of citrusy brightness for balance. It’s delicious drizzled over salads, roasted vegetables or grain bowls!

Using a spoon to mix a small jar of tahini dressing.

My family is in love with this maple tahini dressing! It’s one of those versatile staples that I keep coming back to. The creamy texture and balance of nutty tahini with the natural sweetness of maple syrup make it a perfect pairing for so many dishes. I drizzle it over salads, roasted vegetables, grain bowls or even use it as a dip for veggies—it’s always a hit. Best of all, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. It’s the kind of dressing that makes everything taste better!

This dressing is a perfect match for my butternut squash salad!

The flavor of this is SO good! I’ve been putting it on my salad daily and we also love to dip veggies and grilled chicken into it.

— Laura

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Easy to make: Just a few simple ingredients and quick steps create this flavorful dressing.
  • Versatile: Perfect to use so many ways! My kids even love this as a dip with French fries and chicken tenders!
  • Naturally sweetened: The maple syrup adds a hint of sweetness without refined sugar.
  • A better-for-you dressing: Made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free!
  • Customizable: Adjust the thickness, sweetness, or tanginess to suit your taste.
  • Deliciously balanced: Creamy tahini, rich maple syrup, and zesty lemon make every bite shine!

Ingredients needed

This tahini dressing recipe is a versatile and wholesome addition to your meals. Plus, it’s quick to whip up with pantry staples, making it an easy go-to for adding a gourmet touch to everyday dishes. You’ll find exact measurements in the recipe card, but here is a note on all of the ingredients.

Bowls of tahini, olive oil, and maple syrup near a sliced lemon.
  • Tahini: The star of the dressing, tahini provides a rich, creamy texture and nutty flavor. Made from ground sesame seeds, it adds a healthy dose of protein and healthy fats.
  • Maple syrup: Adds a hint of sweetness.
  • Lemon juice: Provides brightness and enhances the overall flavor.
  • Apple cider vinegar: Optional for a bit of extra tanginess.
  • Olive oil: Contributes a smooth texture and a subtle richness.
  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds depth and a savory punch to the dressing.
  • Water: Adjusts the consistency, allowing you to make the dressing as thick or as thin as you prefer.
  • Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors together.

Substitutions and variations

Tahini dressing is highly versatile, making it easy to tailor to your taste preferences! Here are some suggestions:

  • Tahini: Swap with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or even peanut butter for a different nutty flavor.
  • Maple syrup: Use honey, agave syrup, or brown sugar for alternative sweetness.
  • Lemon juice: Replace with lime juice for a tangy twist or white vinegar for a sharper edge.
  • Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or a splash of sriracha.
  • Smoky flavor: Include smoked paprika for a subtle smoky taste.
  • Fresh herbs: Stir in a small amount of herbs like dill, parsley, basil or cilantro for added aroma.

How to make this recipe

Mixing tahini with maple syrup and garlic.

Step 1. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar (if using), and minced garlic.

Whisking water in with dressing.

Step 2. Add water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.

Whisking tahini dressing in a small bowl.

Step 3. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more maple syrup for sweetness or lemon juice for a more tangy flavor.

Drizzling tahini dressing over a salad.

Step 4. Drizzle over your favorite dishes, such as salads, roasted veggies or bowls!

Helpful tips

  • Use a high-quality tahini: Look for smooth and creamy tahini without added oils or preservatives for the best flavor. I like Soom Foods tahini. Stir well if it’s separated.
  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and a good-quality maple syrup will enhance the dressing’s flavor.
  • Blend or whisk: For a smoother texture, use a blender or food processor.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make this tahini dressing without the garlic?

Yes, you can omit the garlic if you’re not a fan or if you have dietary restrictions. The dressing will still be delicious and creamy without it.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can substitute honey (if not vegan) or agave syrup for the maple syrup, although the flavor will differ slightly.

What can I use this dressing on?

Maple tahini dressing is versatile! It pairs wonderfully with salads, roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or even as a drizzle over roasted baby potatoes. It can also be used as a dip for veggies or as a topping for buddha bowls. Add it as a topping over grilled chicken, salmon, sandwiches, wraps and burgers.

Storage recommendations

Store maple tahini salad dressing in an airtight container or small mason jar in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If it thickens in the fridge, just stir in a little water to loosen it up.

Maple tahini dressing in a small glass jar with a spoon.

More homemade dressing recipes

If you try this, let me know! Leave a comment and if your family loves it as much as mine does, be sure to give it a five star ⭐️ rating! Also, tag @kimscravings on Instagram with a picture of your creation. Be sure to subscribe to our mailing list to receive more healthy delicious recipes straight to your inbox.

Using a spoon to mix a small jar of tahini dressing.
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Tahini Dressing

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Maple Tahini Dressing is the perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and tangy flavors that elevate any salad! It's delicious drizzled over salads, roasted vegetables or grain bowls!
Author: Kim

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, optional
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2-3 tablespoons water, to thin, as needed
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions 

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, maple syrup, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic.
  • Add water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more maple syrup for sweetness or lemon juice for a more tangy flavor.
  • Drizzle over your favorite dishes, such as salads, roasted veggies, or bowls!

Notes

If the dressing is too thick, you can add more water a teaspoon at a time to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can add a bit more tahini.
To store: This dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If it thickens in the fridge, just stir in a little water to loosen it up.
Author: Kim
Course: Dressing
Cuisine: American
Serving: 1serving, Calories: 80kcal, Carbohydrates: 7g, Protein: 2g, Fat: 5g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Sodium: 5mg, Potassium: 70mg, Fiber: 0.5g, Sugar: 4g, Vitamin A: 7IU, Vitamin C: 3mg, Calcium: 23mg, Iron: 0.5mg

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