Looking for a creamy, rich, and flavorful pasta dish that’s also quick and easy? This Creamy Tahini Pasta is the perfect meal for busy weeknights. Made with a nutty tahini sauce, garlic, lemon juice, and pasta, it’s both simple and delicious.
Tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, adds a silky, nutty richness that pairs perfectly with pasta. This dish is also dairy-free and can be made vegan-friendly, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Whether you’re a tahini lover or new to this ingredient, this tahini pasta is a must-try! Plus, it’s ready in just 15 minutes, making it an effortless meal.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Super Creamy & Flavorful. Tahini creates a silky, nutty sauce.
- Quick & Easy. Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Vegan & Dairy-Free. Perfect for plant-based diets.
- Nutritious & Filling. Tahini is rich in healthy fats and protein.
- Customizable. Add veggies, protein, or spice for variety.
- No Heavy Cream Needed. A great alternative to traditional creamy sauces.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup pasta water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley & sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Equipment Used:
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Strainer
Directions & Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Make the Tahini Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Slowly add pasta water, whisking continuously until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Everything:
- In the same pot, add olive oil and cooked pasta.
- Pour the tahini sauce over the pasta and toss until evenly coated.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh parsley and sesame seeds.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Per serving:
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
This tahini pasta is packed with healthy fats and plant-based protein, making it both satisfying and nutritious. It’s also a great alternative to dairy-based creamy pastas. To boost protein, add chickpeas or tofu!
Prep Time and Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations:
- Make It Spicy: Add extra chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Add Protein: Stir in chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu.
- Extra Creamy: Blend in a little hummus or cashew cream.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat, chickpea, or zucchini noodles all work great.
3. Can I use store-bought tahini?
Yes! Just make sure to stir it well before using, as tahini can separate.
Pro Tips By Lyndy
- Use high-quality tahini for the best flavor and smoothest sauce.
- Whisk the sauce well to avoid any grainy texture.
- Adjust consistency with pasta water—add more for a thinner sauce.
- Toast sesame seeds for an extra nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
- Pair with garlic bread or pita chips.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine or iced tea.
Creamy Tahini Pasta : Easy & Flavorful
Looking for a creamy, rich, and flavorful pasta dish that’s also quick and easy? This Creamy Tahini Pasta is the perfect meal for busy weeknights. Made with a nutty tahini sauce, garlic, lemon juice, and pasta, it’s both simple and delicious.
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Strainer
- 8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup pasta water
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley & sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Make the Tahini Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Slowly add pasta water, whisking continuously until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything:
- In the same pot, add olive oil and cooked pasta.
- Pour the tahini sauce over the pasta and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh parsley and sesame seeds.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Use high-quality tahini for the best flavor and smoothest sauce.
Whisk the sauce well to avoid any grainy texture.
Adjust consistency with pasta water—add more for a thinner sauce.