Manuka Miso-Citrus Dressing with Tahini
Bright, umami-rich salad dressing sweetened with New Zealand Manuka honey
A versatile, trending dressing that blends white miso and tahini for creamy umami, brightened with citrus and gently sweetened with Manuka honey. Perfect for leafy salads, roasted veg, grain bowls or as a dip.
Timing
Cook Time: PT0M
Prep Time: PT10M
Rest Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M
Active Time: PT10M
Ingredients
2
tbsp
Manuka honey
(Notes: preferably UMF 12+; room temperature for easier mixing)
1
tbsp
white miso
(Notes: smooth-style)
2
tbsp
tahini
(Notes: stirred)
2
tbsp
rice vinegar
(Notes: or apple cider vinegar)
1
tbsp
fresh lemon juice
(Notes: about half a lemon)
1
tsp
lemon zest
(Notes: finely grated)
60
ml
extra virgin olive oil
(Notes: or neutral oil for a lighter flavour)
1
tsp
tamari
(Notes: or light soy sauce; tamari for gluten-free)
1-2
tbsp
cold water
(Notes: to thin dressing as needed)
to taste
sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
(Notes: adjust at end)
Instructions
Step 1
In a medium bowl combine the white miso, Manuka honey and tahini; whisk until smooth and homogenous.
Tip: If Manuka honey is very thick, warm the jar briefly in hot water to loosen it before measuring.
Timing: PT0M
Step 2
Add the rice vinegar, lemon juice, lemon zest and tamari. Whisk briskly to blend and lift the flavours.
Tip: Taste as you go to balance sweet, salty and acidic notes.
Timing: PT0M
Step 3
Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while whisking to create a smooth emulsion. If the dressing is too thick, whisk in cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Tip: You can also place ingredients in a jar and shake vigorously for a quick emulsification.
Timing: PT2M
Step 4
Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, then taste and add a little more Manuka honey if you prefer a sweeter dressing.
Tip: Adjust seasoning slowly — the miso already adds saltiness.
Timing: PT0M
Step 5
Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for 10 minutes to let the flavours meld and the texture settle.
Tip: Making it ahead (up to a day) improves depth of flavour; bring to room temperature before serving if chilled.
Timing: PT10M
Step 6
Serve over mixed green salads, roasted vegetables, grain bowls or use as a dipping sauce for crudités.
Tip: Pairs beautifully with avocado, roasted pumpkin, or sesame-coated tofu for popular social-media worthy bowls.
Timing: PT0M