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Fresh Tahini Caesar Salad Recipe with Easy Zaatar Croutons for Perfect Flavor

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A quick and satisfying fresh tahini Caesar salad featuring creamy tahini dressing and aromatic za’atar croutons, perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head romaine lettuce, washed and chopped
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • ¼ cup tahini
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt, to taste (start with ½ teaspoon)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 cups bread cubes (day-old sourdough or baguette)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons za’atar spice blend
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Rinse the romaine lettuce thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit. Spin or pat dry with clean towels. Chop into bite-sized pieces and place into a large salad bowl.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, za’atar, and a pinch of salt until evenly coated. Add the bread cubes to the skillet in a single layer and toast, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes or until golden and crisp. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  3. In a small bowl, combine tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Whisk vigorously while slowly adding water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until a creamy, pourable consistency is reached (about 3-4 tablespoons). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust lemon or salt if needed.
  4. Drizzle about half of the dressing over the chopped romaine and toss gently but thoroughly to coat. Add the grated Parmesan and toss again. Fold in cherry tomatoes if using.
  5. Sprinkle the za’atar croutons on top just before serving to retain their crunch. Keep croutons separate if prepping in advance.
  6. Serve immediately with extra dressing on the side. Optionally add more cracked black pepper or a squeeze of fresh lemon for brightness.

Notes

Toast za’atar croutons over medium heat and stir frequently to avoid burning. Add water slowly to tahini dressing to prevent splitting. Toss salad lightly with half the dressing first to avoid overdressing. Keep croutons separate until serving to maintain crunch. Dressing can be stored up to 3 days in the fridge; whisk before use.

Nutrition

Keywords: tahini Caesar salad, za'atar croutons, quick salad, easy dressing, Middle Eastern salad, healthy salad, vegetarian salad, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://blingbite.com/fresh-tahini-caesar-salad-recipe-with-easy-zaatar-croutons-for-perfect-flavor/