If you’re trying to eat more plant-based meals, avoid dairy or cut back on oil, finding a rich, creamy dressing that actually tastes good can feel impossible. So many store-bought options rely on dairy for texture or are loaded with additives, while homemade versions don’t always hit the mark. Maybe they’re too thin, too tangy or just missing that velvety texture you love. That’s exactly why I created this Smooth and Creamy Citrus Tahini Dressing.
You’d never guess it’s completely oil-free, dairy-free and 100% vegan—but it is. Even my son Ramsey, who can be picky about dressings, gave it a thumbs up! The secret? Tahini. Made from ground sesame seeds and packed with heart-healthy fats, it adds natural creaminess and just the right amount of richness—without a drop of oil. Fresh orange juice brightens things up, while a touch of pure maple syrup balances the flavors perfectly.
And the best part? It’s simple, quick and versatile. Drizzle it over salads, toss it with grain bowls or use it as a dip for roasted veggies. No blending, no complicated steps—just whisk, taste and enjoy.
Dressing Insights
Going oil-free isn’t for everyone, and I have no problem enjoying oil as part of a well-balanced diet. But if you’re looking to cut back for health reasons or simply want to try something different, this is an easy way to add creaminess to your bowl. It’s naturally rich, full of flavor and has a smooth, velvety consistency that elevates any dish. Whether you follow an oil-free lifestyle or just appreciate a great homemade dressing, this one is definitely worth a try.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dressing so delicious:
- Tahini: The creamy foundation of this dressing. Made from ground sesame seeds, tahini provides a rich, nutty flavor and velvety texture without the need for oil.
- Fresh Orange Juice: Adds a bright citrusy sweetness that enhances the flavor while keeping the dressing light and refreshing. It also helps balance the richness of the tahini.
- White Balsamic Vinegar: A milder alternative to traditional balsamic, this vinegar brings just the right amount of tang to complement the sweetness of the orange juice.
- Pure Maple Syrup: A touch of natural sweetness rounds out the flavors, softening the acidity of the vinegar and enhancing the citrus notes. You can also use another vegan-friendly liquid sweetener of your choice.
- Garlic: Fresh and aromatic, it adds depth and a subtle bite to balance the creaminess.
- Ground Cumin: Warm and earthy, cumin gives the dressing a hint of spice and an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the tahini and citrus.
- Sea Salt: A simple but essential ingredient that enhances every flavor in the blend.
- Water: Used to thin the dressing to the perfect consistency for drizzling, while keeping it light and smooth.
Dressing Build Blocks
You don’t need much to build a rich, creamy dressing, and this citrus tahini blend is proof. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a smooth, flavorful dressing that’s every bit as satisfying as store-bought—if not better. Plus, you can easily tweak the sweetness, tanginess or consistency to match your taste.
- 1/2 cup tahini, well-stirred
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 medium oranges)
- 1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or another vegan-friendly liquid sweetener
- 2 small garlic cloves, minced or grated
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- 1/4-1/2 cup water, as needed to thin out
Build Your Dressing
This Smooth and Creamy Citrus Tahini Dressing comes together in no time. With just a bowl, a whisk and a few simple steps, you’ll have a rich, flavorful dressing ready to enjoy in minutes.
- Gather and Measure: Prepare and measure all the ingredients for easy mixing. Having everything ready ensures a smooth process.
- Whisk Until Smooth: Add the tahini, orange juice, vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, cumin and salt to a bowl. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency: Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample the dressing and tweak the flavors as needed. Add more maple syrup for sweetness, an extra splash of vinegar for tanginess or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
- Chill to Enhance Flavors: Transfer the dressing to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Stir Before Serving: Natural separation may occur, so give the dressing a good stir before using.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If it thickens over time, whisk in a little water to loosen the consistency before serving.
Customize Your Dressing
This Smooth and Creamy Citrus Tahini Dressing is easy to customize based on your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you want to tweak the flavors or find new ways to enjoy it, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are a few simple adjustments to try!
- Adjust the Sweetness: Add more or less maple syrup (or your preferred vegan-friendly sweetener) to match your desired level of sweetness.
- Make It Tangier: Increase the white balsamic vinegar for extra brightness and acidity.
- Add a Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Boost the Citrus: Mix in a bit of fresh lemon or lime juice for a more intense citrus flavor.
- Experiment with Herbs: Add fresh chopped parsley, cilantro or dill for an herby twist.
- Use It Beyond Salads: Drizzle it over grain bowls, use it as a dip for roasted veggies or spread it on wraps and sandwiches for an extra layer of flavor.
Let Me See Your Dressing
If you enjoy this Smooth and Creamy Citrus Tahini Dressing, which I’m quite sure you will, drop a comment below and share your pics on Instagram (@that.salad.lady) and TikTok (@thatsaladlady). Don’t forget to add the hashtags #thatsaladlady and #buildyourbowl.
Love it? Pin it on Pinterest and share it on Facebook using #thatsaladlady. I can’t wait to see your creations!
Smooth and Creamy Citrus Tahini Dressing
10
servings5
minutes95
kcal5
minutesVegan, gluten-free and oil-free, this Creamy Citrus Tahini Dressing is perfect for salads, grain bowls and more, coming together in minutes.
Ingredients
1/2 cup tahini, well-stirred
1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 medium oranges)
1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or another vegan-friendly liquid sweetener
2 small garlic cloves, minced or grated
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
1/4-1/2 cup water, as needed to thin out
Directions
- Gather and Measure: Prepare and measure all the ingredients for easy mixing. Having everything ready ensures a smooth process.
- Whisk Until Smooth: Add the tahini, orange juice, vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, cumin and salt to a bowl. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency: Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample the dressing and tweak the flavors as needed. Add more maple syrup for sweetness, an extra splash of vinegar for tanginess or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
- Chill to Enhance Flavors: Transfer the dressing to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Stir Before Serving: Natural separation may occur, so give the dressing a good stir before using.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If it thickens over time, whisk in a little water to loosen the consistency before serving.
Notes
- Tahini Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of tahini or don’t have it on hand, try substituting with cashew butter or sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy texture and mild nutty flavor.
- Flavor Tweaks: Add more vinegar for extra tang, increase the maple syrup for additional sweetness or mix in fresh herbs like fresh chopped parsley, cilantro or dill for a different flavor profile.
- Versatile Uses: This dressing works as more than just a salad topper. Drizzle it over grain bowls, use it as a dip for roasted veggies or spread it on wraps and sandwiches for an extra layer of flavor.
This information is provided as a courtesy and is only an estimate. Please review my full disclaimer to get a clear understanding of the nutrition and health information and resources presented and written on my website.
