Creamy herbed tahini dip recipe

Pair this rich dip with fresh veggies or whole-wheat crackers.

tahini dip

Updated on June 4, 2025.

A nutty, slightly bitter paste made from sesame seeds, tahini is a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, as well as nutrients like magnesium, iron, and calcium. Though it’s used in many Middle Eastern recipes, people in the United States perhaps know it best as a main ingredient in hummus.

This rich and creamy tahini dip gets a fresh, herbaceous flavor from mint, basil, and cilantro leaves. Pair it with raw veggies or whole-wheat crackers. The recipe comes from functional medicine physician Mark Hyman, MD.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup tahini
  • 1/4 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves
  • 8 to 10 fresh mint leaves
  • 5 large fresh basil leaves
  • 1 large scallion, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives
  • 1 garlic clove, halved
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 ground turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon fennel or anise seeds

Preparation

Combine all the ingredients plus 1 cup of hot water in a blender and blend until smooth. Add more hot water as needed if the blender is struggling. Serve. Store any leftover dip in airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Nutrition facts

Per serving, estimated: Calories 105; fat 10g; saturated fat 1g; cholesterol 0mg; fiber 1g; protein 3g; carbohydrates 4g; sodium 79mg

Serves about 16

More On

How to reduce salt and sugar in your diet

video

How to reduce salt and sugar in your diet
Salt and sugar are mainstays in the typical American diet - however, too much of either isn't all that good for you.
Blueberries: a little fruit with big health benefits

article

Blueberries: a little fruit with big health benefits
A wealth of research suggests that eating nutrient-rich blueberries can improve your health and longevity.
The best foods to choose at a summer BBQ

slideshow

The best foods to choose at a summer BBQ
It’s possible to indulge in some of your favorite food and beverages without totally destroying your diet.
5 foods to try (If you haven’t already)

video

5 foods to try (If you haven’t already)
Looking to add something new to your grocery list? Try these foods!
Are nutrients lost when produce is blended into a smoothie?

video

Are nutrients lost when produce is blended into a smoothie?
Smoothies are a popular way for people to get the nutrients their bodies need.