If you’re craving an Asian flavor in your salads, try Toasted Sesame Dressing. Its rich, nutty taste from roasted sesame seeds adds a delightful balance of savory and sweet notes to any dish.
Contents
Toasted sesame dressing recipe
Toasted Sesame Dressing is a flavorful dressing commonly used in Asian-inspired dishes. Compared to the soy and sesame dressing, this Asian dressing has a richer and nuttier flavor with a creamy texture due to tahini.
The toasted sesame salad dressing originates from traditional Japanese cuisine, where it’s known as goma dare. Over centuries, it has evolved across Asian cultures, with each region adding its unique interpretation. Chinese cuisine emphasizes a lighter, more vinegar-forward profile, while Korean variations often incorporate gochugaru for heat.
Here’s how to make the toasted sesame dressing:
Toasted sesame dressing
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for a vegan option
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- If desired, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before using.
How to serve and pair
1. Salad Pairings
- Green Salads:
- Tender lettuce varieties
- Crisp vegetables: carrots, cucumber, bell peppers, and snap peas
- Microgreens and herbs
- Grain Bowls:
- Quinoa bases
- Brown rice foundations
- Ancient grain medleys
- Cooked Vegetables:
- Steam or roast broccoli
- Grilled asparagus
- Roasted eggplant
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
2. Asian-Inspired Dishes: This dressing pairs excellently with Asian cuisine. Here are some specific dishes:
- Japanese Cuisine:
- Soba noodles
- Udon
- Seaweed salads
- Grilled vegetables
- Chinese Applications:
- Cold noodle dishes
- Cucumber salads
- Braised proteins
3. Protein Pairings
Seafood Combinations
| Seafood Type | Application Method | Complementary Ingredients |
| Grilled Salmon | Light brush before serving | Cucumber, green onion |
| Seared Tuna | Dipping sauce | Wasabi, microgreens |
| Shrimp | Marinade & drizzle | Mango, avocado |
| White Fish | Light coating | Citrus segments, herbs |
Meat Pairings
- Poultry Options:
- Grilled Chicken
- As marinade base
- Post-cooking drizzle
- Dipping sauce
- Duck Breast
- Light finishing sauce
- Side dipping option
- Salad dressing component
- Grilled Chicken
- Beef Applications
- Grilled steak strips
- Asian-style beef bowls
- Tataki preparations
4. Other Uses
- Snack and Appetizer Pairings
- Spring rolls
- Lettuce wraps
- Rice paper rolls
- Vegetable crudités
- Sandwiches and Wraps
- Banh mi spread
- Wrap sauce
- Club sandwich enhancement
- Vegetable sandwich spread
Variations
1. Spicy Asian Toasted Sesame Dressing
- Add sriracha or chili oil for an extra kick of heat.
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a milder level of spiciness.
2. Herbs and Aromatics:
- Fresh ginger and garlic enhance the dressing’s freshness and depth.
- Green onions or cilantro add brightness and vibrant color.
3. Nutty Enhancements:
- A drizzle of toasted sesame oil boosts the sesame flavor.
- Chopped peanuts or almonds contribute to texture and nuttiness.
4. Citrus Toasted Asian Sesame Dressing
- Lemon zest or juice brightens the dressing and adds a refreshing flavor.
- Orange juice offers a sweeter citrus alternative for added complexity.
