Name: Maple Mustard Tahini Dressing
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup tahini; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 2 tablespoons water (plus more to thin, if desired); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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This Maple Mustard Tahini Dressing is creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet. Made with simple pantry staples like tahini, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup, it blends into a smooth, pourable sauce that I love using on salads, grain bowls, roasted vegetables, or as a dip. It’s naturally vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free—making it a wholesome and delicious option for any meal.

Maple Mustard Tahini Dressing

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

¼ cup tahini

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons maple syrup

2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

2 tablespoons water (plus more to thin, if desired)

½ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon sea salt

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

I start by adding the tahini, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to a medium bowl.

Then, I whisk everything together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Next, I add water gradually—one tablespoon at a time—until the dressing reaches the consistency I like.

I taste and adjust: a bit more lemon juice if I want it tangier, or maple syrup if I’m leaning into sweetness.

Once done, I store the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge. Before using it again, I give it a good shake or stir to bring it back to life.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Calories: 130 kcal per serving

Variations

When I want to change it up, I sometimes add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar for extra zing. For a spicy twist, a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce does the trick. I’ve also stirred in a bit of nutritional yeast for a savory, cheesy note, or used lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor. If I need a thinner dressing, I add more water until it’s pourable enough for what I’m making.

Storage/Reheating

I store the dressing in a mason jar or any airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Because tahini can thicken as it chills, I usually stir or shake it well before each use. If it gets too thick, a small splash of water loosens it right up. Since there’s no dairy or perishable ingredient, it holds up well without needing reheating.

FAQs

How long does maple mustard tahini dressing last in the fridge?

I keep mine in the fridge for up to 7 days. Just be sure it’s stored in an airtight container and give it a stir before using.

Can I freeze this dressing?

I don’t recommend freezing it—tahini-based dressings can separate and get grainy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within the week.

Is this dressing suitable for people with nut allergies?

Yes, it is! Tahini is made from sesame seeds, not nuts, so it’s safe for most people with nut allergies. Just make sure all other ingredients are allergy-friendly too.

Can I use a different mustard?

Definitely. I use Dijon for its smooth texture and sharp flavor, but spicy brown or whole grain mustard works too—it just changes the flavor slightly.

What can I use if I don’t have maple syrup?

I’ve swapped maple syrup with agave nectar or honey (if not vegan). Each brings a different kind of sweetness, so I taste and adjust to suit the dish.

Conclusion

This Maple Mustard Tahini Dressing is one of those recipes I come back to again and again because it’s so simple, flavorful, and versatile. Whether I’m meal prepping for the week or throwing together a quick lunch, it’s always a reliable way to add creamy, bold flavor to whatever’s on my plate. Give it a try—I think it might become one of your favorites too.

📖 Recipe:

Maple Mustard Tahini Dressing

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegan

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Description

This Maple Mustard Tahini Dressing is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce made with wholesome ingredients like tahini, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup. Perfect for salads, grain bowls, or as a dip, it's vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free.