Tahini Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta is incredibly easy to prepare and uses wholesome ingredients to create a luscious, silky sauce without any dairy. Tahini adds depth and a unique nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with garlic and lemon. It’s versatile, quick, and perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite)

• 1/3 cup tahini

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1/4 cup warm water (more as needed)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped parsley, toasted sesame seeds for garnish

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

Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain the rest.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together tahini, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, warm water, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add more water as needed to achieve a creamy sauce.

3. Toss cooked pasta into the tahini sauce, adding reserved pasta water gradually to help coat the pasta evenly.

4. Adjust seasoning to taste.

5. Garnish with red pepper flakes, chopped parsley, and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

6. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation and cooking take about 20-25 minutes.

Variations

• Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes.

• Stir in cooked chickpeas or tofu for added protein.

• Use lime juice instead of lemon for a citrus twist.

• Sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

• Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for extra freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, any pasta of choice works well with this sauce.

How do I prevent the tahini sauce from clumping?

Whisk the sauce thoroughly with warm water and lemon juice before mixing with pasta.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead?

Yes, make the sauce in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan and dairy-free.

Can I add spice?

Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to taste.

What kind of tahini is best?

Use smooth, well-stirred tahini for the creamiest sauce.

Can I freeze the sauce?

Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 2 days.

Can I use the sauce as a dip?

Yes, it makes a great dip for vegetables or pita bread.

What sides pair well with tahini pasta?

Serve with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

Conclusion

Tahini Pasta is a creamy, flavorful, and nutritious dish that offers a delightful alternative to traditional creamy pasta recipes. Easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for quick dinners or meal prep and suits a variety of dietary preferences.