Prepare to transform your appetizer game with a dip that's not just a crowd-pleaser, but a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Our Lemon Tahini Lentil Dip is a culinary masterpiece that combines the earthy richness of lentils, the nutty depth of tahini, and the bright zest of lemon into one irresistible spread. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, looking for a healthy snack, or simply craving something extraordinary, this Middle Eastern-inspired delicacy will elevate your taste buds and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 3 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of cooked lentils, 3 tablespoons of tahini, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 teaspoon of cumin, salt to taste, olive oil for drizzling, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- If you haven't already, cook the lentils. Rinse 1/2 cup of dried lentils under cold water and place them in a pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water and let cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and cumin. Use a fork or a potato masher to blend the ingredients together until you achieve a creamy consistency. You can also use a food processor for a smoother texture.
- Taste the mixture and add salt as needed. Adjust the lemon juice or tahini if you prefer a tangier or creamier dip.
- Transfer the lentil dip to a serving bowl. Drizzle olive oil over the top for added flavor and richness.
- Finely chop some fresh parsley and sprinkle it on top of the dip for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the Lemon Tahini Lentil Dip with pita bread, vegetable sticks, or your favorite crackers. Enjoy your delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dip!
Tips
- Lentil Perfection: For the best texture, use green or brown lentils and cook them just until tender to maintain a slight bite.
- Tahini Trick: Choose a high-quality tahini and stir it well before adding, as natural separation can affect the dip's consistency.
- Garlic Intensity: If you love a more robust garlic flavor, let the minced garlic sit in the lemon juice for a few minutes before mixing to release more flavor.
- Texture Customization: For a smoother dip, use a food processor; for a more rustic feel, use a fork or potato masher.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This dip tastes even better after chilling for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serving Suggestion: Experiment with different garnishes like toasted pine nuts, sumac, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
