I have loved Asian food for a long time. From Chinese fast food as a teenager to dining at Japanese restaurants as an adult. Over the years I've learned how to make healthier versions of my favorite restaurant dishes at home (that taste even better!). This Honey Sesame Dressing is one of my newest recipe creations.
It's naturally gluten and dairy free and packed with sesame flavor. We use it in a variety of foods from Thai to Japanese.
Sesame Salad Dressing Ingredients
There are many variations of sesame dressing out there, but this one sticks to pure, real food ingredients. Instead of canola or vegetable oil, I use extra virgin olive oil for healthy fats. Honey pairs well with toasted sesame oil and pungent rice vinegar. You could probably use maple syrup instead, but I think honey adds a nice touch.
I used either red wine vinegar or rice wine vinegar in this sesame dressing. Rice vinegar is milder, but the red wine version adds a stronger kick. Many of my homemade dressing recipes call for apple cider vinegar, but it can overpower toasted white sesame seeds.
And for saltiness and umami flavor, I rely on soy sauce or coconut aminos. You can also use tamari sauce. Traditional versions from Japan use only fermented soybeans, water and salt. For a little more creaminess, try adding some peanut butter for a Thai or tahini version.
What should we serve with Asian sesame dressing?
I love this dressing with green salads or vegetables and grilled meat. You can also use it as a meat marinade. Here are some other ways to use it:
Honey Sesame Dressing Recipe
This sweet and savory sesame dressing recipe tastes great on salads, vegetables, and even grilled meats. Rub some in minutes!
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Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant (2-3 minutes). Stir frequently to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
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In a blender or small jar, mix all other ingredients until incorporated. Add the toasted sesame seeds and mix by hand (do not mix).
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Taste and adjust the sweetness or saltiness if necessary by adding more honey or soy sauce.
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Transfer the dressing to a glass jar or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
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Shake well before serving. Pour over salads, grilled vegetables or Asian dishes.
Nutrition facts
Honey Sesame Dressing Recipe
Amount per serving (2 tablespoons)
Calories 190
Calories from fat 117
% Daily Value*
Fat 13 g20%
Saturated fat 0.6 g4%
Unsaturated fat 3 g
Monounsaturated fat 8 g
Sodium 253 mg11%
potassium 45 mg1%
Carbohydrates 19 g6%
Fiber 0.6 g3%
Sugar 17 gr19%
Protein 1 g2%
Vitamin A 0.4 IU0%
Vitamin C 0.1 mg0%
Calcium 48 mg5%
Iron 1 mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
6. Refrigerate leftovers for up to a week.
More salad dressing recipes
Here are some more homemade dressing recipes to try. I always try to keep some in the fridge for quick lunchtime salads.
Have you ever had an Asian sesame sauce before? What is your favorite way to use it? Leave a comment and let us know!
