Creamy Manuka Tahini Dressing with Lemon & Miso
A tangy-sweet, trend-forward dressing using New Zealand Manuka honey and creamy tahini — perfect for salads, grain bowls and roasted veg.
This versatile dressing pairs the floral depth of Manuka honey with nutty tahini and a touch of white miso for umami. It’s vegan-friendly when using plant-based miso, blends quickly and mellows if left to rest — a popular flavour profile across social feeds.
Timing
Cook Time: PT3M
Prep Time: PT10M
Rest Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT43M
Active Time: PT13M
Ingredients
60
g
tahini
(Notes: well-stirred, room temperature)
2
tbsp
Manuka honey
(Notes: see Manuka details below; adjust to taste)
2
tbsp
fresh lemon juice
(Notes: about 1 lemon)
1
tsp
white miso paste
(Notes: adds umami and depth)
50
ml
extra virgin olive oil
(Notes: or neutral oil for a lighter flavour)
2-4
tbsp
warm water
(Notes: to loosen to desired consistency)
1
clove
garlic
(Notes: finely grated or minced)
1/2
tsp
fine sea salt
(Notes: adjust to taste)
1
tsp
toasted sesame seeds
(Notes: optional garnish; toast briefly for extra aroma)
Instructions
Step 1
If toasting sesame seeds, heat a small dry frying pan over medium heat, add seeds and toss until golden and fragrant; remove immediately to a cool plate.
Tip: Keep seeds moving in the pan to avoid burning; they brown quickly.
Timing: PT03M
Step 2
In a medium bowl, whisk together the tahini, Manuka honey, lemon juice and miso until thick and smooth.
Tip: If tahini has separated, stir well first to reincorporate the oils for a silky texture.
Step 3
Add the grated garlic, olive oil and 2 tablespoons of warm water. Whisk vigorously until emulsified; add more water, one tablespoon at a time, to reach a pourable consistency.
Tip: Warm water helps the tahini loosen without overheating the honey.
Step 4
Season with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Taste and adjust acidity or sweetness — add a squeeze more lemon or a little extra Manuka honey if desired.
Tip: Balance is key: acidity brightens while Manuka honey rounds the flavour.
Step 5
Transfer the dressing to a jar, seal and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavours to meld.
Tip: Resting improves flavour integration — this dressing is even better the next day.
Timing: PT30M
Step 6
Serve drizzled over salad leaves, roasted vegetables, grain bowls or as a dip. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and a light drizzle of extra Manuka honey if using for a sweeter finish.
Tip: Shake or whisk briefly before serving if the dressing separates in the fridge.