Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
If you are craving a fresh, vibrant dish that bursts with flavor and nutrition, the Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe is exactly what you need. This salad combines crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and protein-rich chickpeas with a luscious, tangy tahini dressing that ties everything together beautifully. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weekdays or a light, energizing lunch. Every bite offers a delightful balance of creamy, zesty, and crunchy textures that will have you coming back for more. Plus, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any palate or season!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The simplicity of this salad is its charm. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the fresh, peppery greens to the creamy, nutty tahini dressing that gives it a luxurious finish. These ingredients are easy to find and provide the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
- Spring salad mix: Offers a tender yet crisp base full of vibrant green leaves.
- Grape or cherry tomatoes: Halved, they add juicy bursts of sweetness and color.
- Shallot: Thinly sliced for mild, subtle onion flavor with a delicate crunch.
- Micro greens (optional): A fresh, slightly spicy addition for extra texture and nutrients.
- Chickpeas (1 can, 15 oz): Drained and rinsed to add protein and a creamy bite.
- Mineral salt & pepper: To season perfectly and enhance the natural flavors.
- Tahini (4 tablespoons): The star ingredient in the dressing that adds a nutty creaminess.
- Juice of one large lemon: Brings bright, zesty freshness to the dressing.
- Garlic salt: A small dash for a hint of savory depth.
- Red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle kick of heat for balance.
- Water or additional lemon juice (2–3 tablespoons): To thin out the dressing to the ideal creamy consistency.
How to Make Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tahini Dressing
Start by combining the tahini, lemon juice, mineral salt, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Whisk those ingredients vigorously until they form a smooth, thick paste. Then, slowly add water or more lemon juice, stirring continuously until the dressing reaches your preferred consistency. The result is a silky, tangy dressing that beautifully coats the salad without overwhelming the fresh ingredients.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Ingredients
Place your spring salad mix or preferred greens in a large bowl or on individual plates. Scatter the halved grape or cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced shallot over the greens, sprinkling optional micro greens if you’re using them. These fresh components provide a lovely mix of flavors and textures, ensuring every forkful is exciting. Next, toss in half of the rinsed chickpeas to add satisfying texture and nutrition.
Step 3: Dress and Serve the Salad
Drizzle the luscious lemon tahini dressing generously over the salad, making sure to coat the ingredients evenly. For an extra pop of flavor and texture, sprinkle the remaining chickpeas on top as a finishing touch. Your Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe is now ready to enjoy — crunchy, creamy, and packed with zesty goodness.
How to Serve Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishes, consider adding toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. These simple touches enhance both the visual appeal and flavor complexity. A few lemon wedges on the side can allow guests to add a fresh squeeze, amplifying the bright citrus notes of the dressing.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread. Serving it alongside a protein boosts the meal’s heartiness, while complementary sides maintain the overall fresh and healthy vibe. It’s especially great with dishes that have a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern flair.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the salad in clear glass bowls or mason jars for a colorful presentation perfect for picnics or packed lunches. Alternatively, use edible bowls such as halved avocados or hollowed-out cucumbers for an eye-catching, eco-friendly serving option. Arranging the ingredients by color or layering the dressing at the bottom before tossing can make serving feel like a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate for best results. Store the greens in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb moisture and keep them crisp. The dressing should be refrigerated in a sealed jar or container. Combine just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, and neither the greens nor the tahini dressing freezes well. The texture of leafy greens becomes limp after freezing, and dressing may separate. For future convenience, prepare and freeze extra chickpeas separately, which thaw nicely for quick salad topping later.
Reheating
Since this is a fresh salad, reheating isn’t recommended. However, if you’ve paired it with warm dishes, gently reheat those separately and serve alongside your freshly tossed Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe for a delightful contrast between warm and crisp.
FAQs
Can I use other greens instead of spring salad mix?
Absolutely! Kale, spinach, arugula, or a combination of your favorite leafy greens all work wonderfully in this salad. Just keep in mind that some greens like kale might need a little massaging with lemon juice or olive oil to soften before tossing.
Is tahini dressing suitable for those with sesame allergies?
Tahini is made from sesame seeds, so it is not suitable if you have a sesame allergy. You can try substituting with a sunflower seed butter or a simple lemon vinaigrette instead.
How can I make the dressing less thick?
If the tahini dressing feels too dense, gradually whisk in more water or lemon juice a teaspoon at a time until you reach the desired pourable consistency. It’s all about finding that balance that coats the salad without overpowering it.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with cucumbers, radishes, bell peppers, or avocado. These add extra crunch, creaminess, and vibrant colors, enhancing both the taste and nutrition of your salad.
Is this salad vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, the Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for many dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
This Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Refreshing, nourishing, and quick to make, it’s a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. I encourage you to try it out and watch how swiftly it becomes a family favorite. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and vibrant green salad featuring a mix of spring greens, cherry tomatoes, and chickpeas, topped with a creamy lemon tahini dressing that is tangy, nutty, and packed with flavor. This quick and easy recipe makes a nutritious and satisfying meal for two, perfect for a healthy lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- Spring salad mix or any preferred salad mix – enough for 2 servings
- Handful of grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced
- Micro greens, optional, for garnish
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
- Mineral salt & pepper, to taste
Tahini 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 additional lemon juice, as needed to thin
Instructions
- Prepare Tahini Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, mineral salt, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water or lemon juice, stirring continuously to achieve your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Assemble Salad: On two plates or in a large bowl, arrange the spring salad mix, halved tomatoes, thinly sliced shallots, and optional microgreens. Add half of the drained and rinsed chickpeas to each.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared lemon tahini dressing evenly over the salad. Sprinkle with mineral salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Toss gently if desired or serve as arranged.
Notes
- For a vegan and gluten-free meal, ensure your tahini is pure and free from additives.
- You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.
- Add toasted pine nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
- This salad can be served immediately or chilled for 10-15 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
