Ginger Sesame Dressing

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This Ginger Sesame Dressing is creamy, nutty, and packed with citrusy brightness and a hint of heat. I love using it for asian inspired salads, soba noodle salads, roasted vegetables, and even as a dipping sauce. It comes together quickly in a food processor or blender, making it an easy homemade staple.

Chef Tips:

  • Use a food processor or blender. This ensures the ginger is fully broken down (without hand mincing), creating a smooth, well-emulsified dressing.
  • Adjust consistency – Depending on the texture of the tahini, you may need to add a little extra water. Start with 1 tablespoon, and adjust until your desired consistency. Note that this dressing will solifidy when stored in the fridge.
  • Store in your fridge for up to a week – this dressing still tastes great even after a week!

Ingredient Notes:

  • Orange Juice – Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the best flavor. Bottled works in a pinch, but fresh juice adds a brighter, more vibrant taste.
  • Lemon Juice – juice of half a lemon is enough to bring some acid to this dressing and balance the richness of the tahini.
  • Sambal Oelek or Sriracha – Brings a touch of heat. Adjust based on your spice preference. The recipe amount does not feel spicy (and I’m a low spice tolerance person!)
  • Sesame Oil – Adds a lovely aroma! Can sub olive oil if you don’t have sesame oil.
  • Soy Sauce or Tamari – Adds umami and saltiness. Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
  • Kosher Salt – The recipe calls for kosher salt. If using iodized or sea salt, start with less and adjust to taste.
  • Ginger – Fresh ginger adds a warm, fragrant kick. Peel the ginger, then chop into 1/2″ chunks.
  • Tahini – Creates a creamy consistency and nutty depth. If your tahini is extra thick, add a bit more water to reach the desired texture.
  • Honey – Balances the acidity and saltiness. Can be swapped with maple syrup or omitted if preferred.

Ginger Sesame Dressing

This Ginger Sesame Dressing is creamy, nutty, and packed with citrusy brightness and a hint of heat. I love using it for asian inspired salads, soba noodle salads, roasted vegetables, and even as a dipping sauce. It comes together quickly in a food processor or blender, making it an easy homemade staple.
Makes 1 cup
Prep: 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Equipment

  • Food Processor

Ingredients 

  • 1 orange, juiced, or ½ cup orange juice
  • 1/2 lemon, 2 tablespoons
  • 1 teaspoon sambal olek or sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1/2" knob ginger
  • 1/3 cup of tahini
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions 

  • Make the dressing by combining all the ingredients in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, taste and adjust for seasoning as desired.
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About Jackie Shao

I’m Jackie. Trained Chef. On a mission to make and share easy, gourmet food for the busy body. Midwesterner at heart and lover of vegetables, sweets, + mountains.

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