Manuka Honey Tahini Dressing
A creamy, umami-rich dressing sweetened with Manuka honey — perfect for grain bowls and leafy salads
This versatile Manuka honey tahini dressing balances sweet, savoury and tangy flavours with a hint of sesame. Trend-forward for grain bowls, roasted veg and mason-jar salads; quick to whisk and mellows if rested for 30 minutes.
Timing
Cook Time: PT0M
Prep Time: PT10M
Rest Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT40M
Active Time: PT10M
Ingredients
1
tbsp
Manuka honey
(Notes: Use UMF 10–15 (approx MGO 250) for a balanced flavour)
2
tbsp
tahini
(Notes: well stirred before measuring)
3
tbsp
extra virgin olive oil
(Notes: or light olive oil for a milder flavour)
2
tbsp
apple cider vinegar
(Notes: or white wine vinegar)
1
tbsp
Dijon mustard
(Notes: adds emulsification and tang)
1
tsp
tamari
(Notes: or soy sauce; gives umami and salt)
1
tsp
sesame oil
(Notes: toasted sesame oil for depth)
1
clove
garlic
(Notes: finely minced or grated)
2-3
tbsp
warm water
(Notes: to loosen to desired consistency)
1
pinch
salt
(Notes: adjust to taste)
1
cracked
black pepper
(Notes: to taste)
Instructions
Step 1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the tahini, Manuka honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, tamari, sesame oil and minced garlic until smooth and glossy.
Tip: If tahini is thick, warm it slightly or stir thoroughly to avoid lumps.
Step 2
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously to create an emulsion. If the dressing is too thick, whisk in warm water 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach a pourable consistency.
Tip: Whisking briskly while adding oil helps the dressing stay silky and not separate.
Step 3
Season with a pinch of salt and cracked black pepper, then taste and adjust acidity or sweetness — add a little more Manuka honey for sweetness or another teaspoon of vinegar for tang.
Tip: Balance flavours for the dish you’re pairing it with — grain bowls may benefit from more acidity, green salads from a touch more honey.
Step 4
Transfer the dressing to a jar, seal and let it rest in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow flavours to meld.
Tip: Resting mellows the raw garlic and lets Manuka honey infuse the dressing with its floral notes.
Timing: PT30M
Step 5
Give the jar a good shake or stir before serving. Drizzle over mixed salad leaves, roasted vegetables, grain bowls or use as a dip for crudités.
Tip: Shake again if the dressing has separated in the fridge.
Step 6
Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 7 days; bring to room temperature and re-whisk or shake before using.
Tip: If thickened in the fridge, loosen with a splash of warm water or lemon juice.