Lemon Tahini Dressing

tahini Tahini is one of our favorite calcium-rich foods. If you are craving dairy, it could simply mean your body is craving calcium.

Sesame Seeds for Calcium

Sesame seeds are one of many nutrient dense foods you can use to replace dairy. Just one-quarter cup of hulled sesame seeds provides 35% of the daily value (DV)for calcium. For an even higher amount of calcium, sesame butter is a great source as the hull of the seed is retained.

Sesame is also very rich in copper (74%DV), manganese (44%DV), magnesium (32%DV), iron (29%DV), zinc (19%DV) and other essential minerals. We all know that calcium is good for our bones – but did you know it may also prevent colon cancer, migraines, and PMS symptoms? Copper reduces swelling from arthritis and magnesium supports respiratory health and can help with menopause symptoms. Sesame seeds are also high in cholesterol-reducing phytosterols.

How to Buy and Store Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds are one of the oldest condiments - used since prehistoric times in India, Africa and the Middle East where tahini – sesame paste - originated. They come in a variety of colors and have a high oil content which is valued for its nutty flavor. Because of the high oil content they can become rancid so it’s best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be purchased from bulk bins or in prepackaged containers. If purchasing from bulk bins, make sure there is no moisture present and that they smell fresh. White sesame seeds are said to have the highest nutritional value.

This tahini recipe can be used for a rich salad dressing, a condiment for wraps and sandwiches, or as a dip for vegetables, apples or rice crackers. We’ve been known to eat it straight from a bowl it’s so yummy! It calls for soaking the seeds – which removes enzyme inhibitors and activates the food’s full nutritional potential as well as making it easier to blend.

Ingredients: sesame seeds

2 cups white sesame seeds, soaked for 4 hours
1 – 2 cups water to desired consistency
½ cup lemon juice (or juice of 2 large lemons)
1 teaspoon sea salt

Directions:

Soak sesame seeds overnight or for a minimum of 4 hours. If soaking longer, change the water daily.
Drain the seeds. Process all of the ingredients in a Vita-Mix blender until smooth and creamy. If you don't have a Vita-Mix, you may want to grind seeds in a coffee grinder before combining them with the liquid. This will make the dressing more creamy. The truly creamiest texture is only achieved with a powerful blender like a Vita-Mix.
Add more water as necessary for the mix to blend easily… it may look like too much water at first but as it blends the seeds will burst and become creamy making it into a paste.
Adjust lemon and salt to desired taste.

Makes 2 cups

Store the tahini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, but tastes best within three days – may also be frozen.

Try using limes instead of lemons for a variety in taste.

Add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic for a spicier taste and added cleansing benefit.

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