If you are on the lookout for a fresh, vibrant, and nourishing salad, you are going to love this Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe. It’s a beautifully balanced dish that combines crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and creamy tahini dressing with zesty lemon notes. The result is a salad that feels both light and satisfyingly rich, perfect for a quick lunch or a colorful side to any meal. With each bite, you’ll enjoy layers of texture and bursts of flavor that make this salad a keeper in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe are refreshingly simple yet essential to creating its delightful harmony. Each component plays a key role, from the tender greens adding a crisp base, to the tahini providing creamy depth, and the lemon juice delivering that perfect splash of brightness.
- Spring salad mix or any preferred salad mix: Choose fresh, vibrant greens to bring a crisp, colorful foundation to your salad.
- Handful of grape or cherry tomatoes, halved: Their juicy sweetness balances the savory dressing perfectly.
- 1 shallot, thinly sliced: Adds a subtle sharpness and delicate crunch that wakes up the flavors.
- Micro greens (optional): These tiny greens add a fresh, earthy note and an elegant touch if you want to get fancy.
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed: They bring protein and a creamy, hearty texture to the salad.
- Mineral salt & pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other ingredients.
- 4 tablespoons tahini: The star of the dressing, providing richness and a nutty flavor that ties the salad together.
- Juice of one large lemon: A bright, zesty component that gives the dressing its refreshing kick.
- Dash of mineral salt: To balance and elevate the dressing’s flavors.
- Dash of garlic salt: Adds a savory and aromatic note that deepens the dressing’s complexity.
- Dash of red pepper flakes: For a subtle heat that brings warmth and intrigue.
- 2 – 3 tablespoons water or lemon juice: Helps to thin the dressing to the perfect consistency for drizzling.
How to Make Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the tahini, lemon juice, mineral salt, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl. This mix is what gives your salad its signature flavor! As you whisk, slowly add water or extra lemon juice a tablespoon at a time until the dressing reaches a creamy yet pourable consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — this step is where you can personalize the zing and richness.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
Arrange your salad mix in a bowl or on a plate. Distribute the halved grape or cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced shallots evenly over the greens. Toss in half of the rinsed chickpeas to add heartiness. If you’re using micro greens, scatter them on top now for that extra burst of freshness. Finally, drizzle the luscious lemon tahini dressing over everything, making sure each bite will have a touch of that creamy, tangy goodness.
How to Serve Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, cilantro, or dill make wonderful garnishes that add a layer of herbal brightness. Toasted sesame seeds or a sprinkle of crushed almonds can provide a delightful crunch alongside the creamy dressing. Feel free to add a few lemon wedges on the side for anyone wanting an extra citrus punch.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even a warm, crusty loaf of bread. It’s versatile enough to complement light dinners or to stand alone as a satisfying lunch full of wholesome ingredients and bright flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, create individual salad cups using large lettuce leaves or edible cabbage cups. Alternatively, layering the salad ingredients in a clear glass jar lets the vibrant colors shine through — perfect for picnics or stylish meal prep. No matter how you serve it, the Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe brings freshness and elegance to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps the greens crisp and prevents the salad from becoming soggy. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving to enjoy it at its freshest.
Freezing
Because of the fresh greens and creamy dressing, this salad doesn’t freeze well. However, you can freeze leftover chickpeas or even the tahini dressing (without water) separately if you want to save time for your next salad adventure.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If your dressing separates after refrigeration, just give it a quick whisk before using. Enjoy the crisp, bright flavors as they are!
FAQs
Can I substitute the tahini with something else?
Absolutely! While tahini lends a unique nutty flavor, you can swap it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a similar texture. Just remember that the taste will shift, but still be delicious in its own way.
What types of greens work best for this salad?
Spring mix is ideal because of its variety of tender leaves, but baby spinach, arugula, or even kale can work well. Just be sure to chop tougher greens finely or massage them to keep the salad pleasant to eat.
Is this salad suitable for vegans and vegetarians?
Yes! This Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe is completely plant-based, making it perfect for both vegans and vegetarians looking for a nutrient-rich meal or side.
How spicy is the dressing?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth but nothing overwhelming. You can adjust the amount or leave them out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I add protein to make it more filling?
Definitely! Aside from the chickpeas, grilled tofu, tempeh, or even cooked quinoa mix nicely with this salad to boost the protein content and make it a more substantial meal.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Green Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Recipe, it’s hard not to keep coming back for more. It’s the kind of fresh, flavorful salad that satisfies every craving, from creamy and tangy to crunchy and bright, all in one bowl. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or adding a light side to dinner, this recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can combine to create something truly special. I can’t wait for you to taste it and make it one of your new favorites!
Print
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 fresh and vibrant green salad featuring a mix of spring greens, cherry tomatoes, shallots, and chickpeas, topped with a creamy and tangy lemon tahini dressing. This easy-to-prepare salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- Spring salad mix, or any salad mix you prefer – 4 cups
- Grape or cherry tomatoes, halved – 1 handful (about 10-12)
- Shallot, thinly sliced – 1 small
- Microgreens (optional) – 1/4 cup
- Can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed – 1 can
- Mineral salt & pepper, to taste
Lemon Tahini Dressing
- Tahini – 4 tablespoons
- Juice of one large lemon – about 3 tablespoons
- Dash of mineral salt
- Dash of garlic salt
- Dash of red pepper flakes
- Water or lemon juice, as needed to thin – 2 to 3 tablespoons
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, mineral salt, garlic salt, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Gradually add water or additional lemon juice, one tablespoon at a time, to reach your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Assemble the salad: On a serving plate or bowl, arrange the spring salad mix, halved grape or cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced shallot, and microgreens if using. Add half of the drained and rinsed chickpeas on top. Season with mineral salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
- Dress and serve: Drizzle the prepared lemon tahini dressing over the salad ingredients evenly. You can add more chickpeas on top if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and creamy dressing.
Notes
- You can substitute lemon juice in the dressing with apple cider vinegar for a different tangy flavor.
- For added protein, toss in some grilled chicken or tofu cubes.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes quantity according to your preferred spice level.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day, with dressing kept separate until ready to eat.
- Using mineral salt enhances the flavors but regular sea salt can be used as a substitute.
