Wedge Salad with Tahini Green Goddess Dressing
A classic wedge salad is known for its crisp lettuce and creamy dressing, but this version adds a fresh twist. Instead of a traditional blue cheese topping, this recipe features a vibrant Tahini Green Goddess dressing packed with herbs, lemon, and rich sesame flavor. It is creamy, bright, and layered with depth from fresh basil, parsley, cilantro, and dill.
The cool crunch of iceberg or butter lettuce pairs beautifully with thinly sliced cucumbers and radishes, while black sesame seeds and fresh dill add texture and visual contrast. It is simple, elegant, and perfect as a starter or light meal.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Tahini Green Goddess Dressing
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons tahini
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 anchovy fillets (optional)
¼ cup fresh basil leaves
¼ cup fresh parsley leaves
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
2 scallions (or 2 tablespoons chopped chives)
1 tablespoon fresh dill
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2–4 tablespoons water (to thin as needed)
For the Salad
1 large head iceberg lettuce (or 2 heads butter lettuce), cut into wedges
1 cup cucumbers, thinly sliced
½ cup radishes, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon black sesame seeds
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the herbs. Wash and dry all fresh herbs thoroughly to prevent watering down the dressing.
Blend the dressing base. In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, tahini, lemon juice, and anchovies if using. Blend until smooth.
Add the herbs. Add basil, parsley, cilantro, scallions, and dill. Blend until the dressing is creamy and green.
Season and thin. Add salt and pepper. Gradually blend in water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches a pourable but thick consistency.
Chill the dressing. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
Prepare the lettuce. Remove any wilted outer leaves. Cut the head into four equal wedges, keeping the core intact to hold each wedge together.
Assemble the base. Place each wedge on a serving plate.
Add vegetables. Scatter sliced cucumbers and radishes over and around the lettuce wedges.
Dress the salad. Spoon or drizzle the tahini green goddess dressing generously over each wedge.
Finish and serve. Sprinkle black sesame seeds and fresh dill on top. Serve immediately while crisp.
Tips
Use very cold lettuce for maximum crunch.
Dry herbs thoroughly to keep dressing vibrant and thick.
Taste dressing before thinning to adjust seasoning.
Start with less water; you can always add more.
Use a sharp knife to keep lettuce wedges clean and intact.
Slice cucumbers and radishes thin for delicate texture.
Chill serving plates for a restaurant-style touch.
Blend dressing until fully smooth for best consistency.
Add lemon zest for extra brightness.
Store dressing separately if preparing ahead.
Variations
Avocado Boost: Blend half an avocado into the dressing for extra creaminess.
Vegan Version: Replace mayo and sour cream with plant-based alternatives and omit anchovies.
Protein Add-On: Top with grilled chicken or shrimp.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the dressing.
Nutty Crunch: Add toasted almonds or sunflower seeds.
Tomato Addition: Include cherry tomatoes for color.
Feta Finish: Sprinkle crumbled feta for a salty touch.
Grilled Wedge: Lightly char the lettuce on a grill for smoky flavor.
Crispy Chickpeas: Add roasted chickpeas for texture.
Herb Swap: Replace cilantro with tarragon for a different flavor profile.
Q&A
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do I have to use anchovies?
No, they add depth but can be omitted.
What lettuce works best?
Iceberg offers crunch; butter lettuce is softer.
How do I keep lettuce crisp?
Store in the fridge wrapped in paper towels.
Can I use dried herbs?
Fresh herbs are strongly recommended for best flavor.
Is tahini necessary?
It adds nuttiness, but you can reduce or omit it if preferred.
Can I thin the dressing with milk?
Water or lemon juice is better to maintain flavor.
How long does assembled salad last?
Best served immediately after dressing.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free mayo and sour cream substitutes.
What pairs well with this salad?
Grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 310
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 420 mg
Values vary depending on portion size and ingredient brands used.
Conclusion
This Wedge Salad with Tahini Green Goddess Dressing takes a familiar classic and gives it a fresh, herb-forward update. The creamy tahini base, layered with bright lemon and vibrant herbs, transforms simple lettuce into something special. Crisp cucumbers and radishes add texture, while sesame seeds and dill provide a final flourish.
It is elegant enough for entertaining yet easy enough for everyday meals. Once you try this herb-packed dressing, you may find yourself using it on everything from sandwiches to grain bowls.