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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.
What to eat with this dressing:
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
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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This is the same dressing as my favorite Japanese restaurant. I’m so glad to have this at home too now!