Leafy green and vegetable salad with lemon-tahini dressing

This leafy green and vegetable salad features watercress, red cabbage, and a tangy lemon-tahini dressing. It's fresh, crunchy, and ideal for a healthy side or light main dish.

09 Feb 2026
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 25 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup water
3 cups watercress
1 cup red cabbage
1/2 onion
1 cucumber
1/4 cup seaweed
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp sesame butter
1 tbsp garlic powder
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp fresh parsley
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup carrots
2/3 tbsp sesame butter
Leafy green and vegetable salad with lemon-tahini dressing

This refreshing leafy green and vegetable salad is a perfect blend of fresh vegetables and a tangy lemon-tahini dressing. It's not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying with its crunch and burst of flavors. Whether you're looking for a healthy side dish or a light main course, this salad is a fantastic choice.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dressing:
1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 tablespoon sesame butter, and 1/2 cup water.
2. Add 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper.
3. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is smooth. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
1. Watercress: Rinse, dry, and roughly chop the watercress. Place it into a large salad bowl.
2. Red Cabbage: Shred 1 cup of red cabbage and add it to the salad bowl.
3. Onion: Thinly slice 1/2 onion and add the slices to the salad bowl.
4. Cucumber: Slice the cucumber into rounds or half-moons and add it to the bowl.
5. Seaweed: Rehydrate 1/4 cup of dried seaweed in water according to the package instructions, then chop and add it to the salad.
6. Carrots: Shred 1/2 cup of carrots and mix them into the salad bowl.
7. Fresh Parsley: Chop 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the salad.
3. Combine and Serve:
1. Pour the prepared lemon-tahini dressing over the salad ingredients.
2. Toss everything together gently until the salad is well coated with the dressing.
3. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors.

This leafy green and vegetable salad with lemon-tahini dressing offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. It's quick to prepare and can be customized with your favorite veggies or toppings. Enjoy this salad as a nutritious dish that complements any meal or stands out on its own.

Leafy green and vegetable salad with lemon-tahini dressing FAQ:

How long can I store the salad in the refrigerator?

It's best to serve the salad immediately after preparation for optimal freshness. However, if stored in an airtight container, it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vegetables may become soggy over time.

Can I substitute sesame butter in the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute sesame butter with tahini or nut butter if desired. The flavor may differ slightly but will still be delicious.

What size salad bowl is needed for this recipe?

A large salad bowl is recommended to comfortably mix all the ingredients without spilling. A bowl that holds at least 4-6 quarts should work well.

What if I don't have watercress?

If you can't find watercress, you can substitute it with spinach or arugula for a similar texture and flavor.

How do I know if the vegetables are fresh enough to use?

Choose vegetables that are vibrant in color, firm to the touch, and free of any blemishes or soft spots. Fresh watercress should be crisp and green, while cabbage and cucumbers should feel solid.

Cooking Tips:

- To make the salad even more vibrant, consider adding some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers.

- If you prefer a stronger taste, add more garlic powder or fresh garlic to the dressing.

- For extra crunch, toss in a handful of toasted nuts or seeds.

- Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.

- If the lemon-tahini dressing is too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more water or olive oil until you reach the desired consistency.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 72kcal
Protein 2.99g
Carbohydrates 10g
Fiber 2.39g
Sugar 3.15g
Fat 18g

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