Creamy Manuka Honey Tahini Dressing with Lemon & Dijon
A trending, versatile dressing for salads, grain bowls and roasted veg — featuring New Zealand Manuka honey
A silky, slightly tangy dressing that pairs Manuka honey with tahini, Dijon and lemon for a modern, social-media-friendly drizzle. Bright, savoury and subtly sweet, it complements roasted vegetables, grain bowls, leafy salads and avocado toast. Let it rest briefly for the flavours to meld.
Timing
Cook Time: PT0M
Prep Time: PT10M
Rest Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Active Time: PT10M
Ingredients
3
tbsp
Manuka honey
(Notes: use UMF/MGO-grade Manuka for pronounced flavour; see notes)
2
tbsp
tahini
(Notes: stirred well so texture is smooth)
2
tbsp
extra virgin olive oil
(Notes: or light olive oil for a less robust flavour)
1
tbsp
Dijon mustard
(Notes: acts as an emulsifier and adds tang)
1
tbsp
fresh lemon juice
(Notes: about half a lemon; adds brightness)
1
clove
garlic
(Notes: finely grated or minced)
1/4
tsp
sea salt
(Notes: adjust to taste)
1/4
tsp
freshly ground black pepper
1
tsp
finely grated orange zest
(Notes: optional — adds bright citrus aroma popular on social feeds)
1-2
tbsp
warm water
(Notes: to thin dressing to desired consistency)
Instructions
Step 1
Whisk together the tahini, Dijon mustard and lemon juice in a medium bowl until smooth and slightly creamy.
Tip: If tahini is very thick, add 1 tsp warm water first to loosen.
Timing: PT2M
Step 2
Add the Manuka honey, grated garlic, olive oil, orange zest (if using), salt and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the honey is fully incorporated and the dressing is glossy.
Tip: Warm the honey slightly (a few seconds in a microwave) if crystallised so it mixes smoothly.
Timing: PT2M
Step 3
Gradually add 1–2 tbsp warm water, a little at a time, whisking until you reach a pourable consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning — add extra lemon for acidity or more Manuka for sweetness.
Tip: For a thinner vinaigrette-style dressing, add an extra tablespoon of water or olive oil.
Timing: PT1M
Step 4
Cover and let the dressing rest in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to allow flavours to meld before serving.
Tip: Resting makes the tahini mellow and allows the Manuka floral notes to shine — great for prepping ahead.
Timing: PT15M
Step 5
Give the dressing a final whisk before using. Drizzle over roasted vegetables, mixed greens, grain bowls or use as a sauce for grilled chicken or salmon.
Tip: Shake vigorously in a jar for quick service; keeps well refrigerated for up to 5 days.