How to Make Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip
If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with creamy texture and a rich, nutty flavor, you’re going to love this Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip. Perfect for parties, quick snacks, or healthy appetizers, this dip combines the natural sweetness of roasted carrots with the earthy depth of tahini and the mellow punch of roasted garlic. Whether you’re dipping veggies, spreading it on crackers, or using it as a sandwich spread, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Texture: Roasting the carrots and garlic brings out natural sugars that blend into a smooth, velvety dip.
- Nutty Depth from Tahini: Tahini adds a subtle sesame flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the carrots.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with vitamins and plant-based proteins, it’s a nutritious way to satisfy cravings.
- Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients and simple steps mean you can whip this up any time, even last minute.
- Versatile Serving Options: Works as a spread, dip, or sauce to accompany a variety of dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip is in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the flavor, color, and texture.
- Carrots: Fresh, medium-sized carrots bring natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- Garlic: Roasting garlic softens its sharpness and adds a mellow, aromatic depth.
- Tahini: Sesame seed paste delivers creaminess and a slightly nutty undertone.
- Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness with a fresh tang.
- Olive Oil: Enhances smoothness and helps blend the dip perfectly.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
- Optional Spices: Cumin or smoked paprika can add an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
Variations for Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip
This dip is highly adaptable, so feel free to get creative depending on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.
- Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or dill can brighten the flavor profile.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or a hint of chipotle powder for a smoky dimension.
- Nutty Variation: Swap tahini for almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different nutty note.
- Vegan Creaminess: Add a splash of coconut milk or plain plant-based yogurt for extra creaminess.
How to Make Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip
Step 1: Roast the Carrots and Garlic
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and chop the carrots into chunks, then toss them with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Cut the top off a garlic bulb to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast the carrots and garlic together on a baking sheet for 25 to 30 minutes until the carrots are tender and the garlic is soft and caramelized.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic
After roasting, squeeze the softened garlic cloves out of their skins into a food processor or blender. Roasted garlic has a milder, sweeter flavor than raw, which is key to the dip’s balanced taste.
Step 3: Blend the Ingredients
Add the roasted carrots to the food processor along with tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Taste and adjust seasoning or texture by adding more lemon juice or olive oil if necessary.
Step 4: Serve or Store
Transfer the dip to a serving bowl. It’s ready to enjoy immediately or chill for an hour to let the flavors meld even more.
Pro Tips for Making Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip
- Roast Evenly: Make sure carrot pieces are cut uniformly to roast at the same rate for perfect texture.
- Use Fresh Tahini: Choose high-quality, creamy tahini to ensure smoothness and depth of flavor.
- Balance Flavors: Always taste before serving and adjust salt or acidity to your preference.
- Control Texture: For a chunkier dip, pulse instead of fully blending.
- Make Ahead: The dip tastes even better after resting as the flavors deepen.
How to Serve Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, fresh chopped parsley, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil creates a visually appealing and tasty finish.
Side Dishes
This dip pairs beautifully with fresh vegetable sticks like cucumber, bell peppers, and celery, as well as pita bread, crackers, or warm flatbreads for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
Creative Ways to Present
Use it as a colorful spread on sandwiches or wraps, or dollop it over grain bowls and salads to add richness and flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to preserve freshness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving and stir well to recombine the ingredients.
Reheating
Because this dip is best served cold or at room temperature, avoid reheating it on the stove or microwave. Instead, just let it come to room temperature before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use raw garlic instead of roasted garlic?
Raw garlic is much stronger and more pungent. Roasting it mellows the flavor and adds slight sweetness, which is essential for this dip’s balanced taste.
Is Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan, using only plant-based ingredients like carrots, garlic, tahini, and olive oil.
What can I substitute for tahini?
If you don’t have tahini, you can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
How long does this dip last?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, the dip stays good for up to 4 days. Always check for freshness before eating.
Can I add spices for more flavor?
Absolutely! Cumin, smoked paprika, or a pinch of cayenne can enhance the dip and cater to your personal taste.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to brighten up your snack table or add a nutritious, flavorful option to your meals, the Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip is a must-try. It’s simple, healthy, and unfailingly delicious—perfect to share with friends or enjoy as a wholesome treat anytime. Give this recipe a shot and watch it become your new favorite go-to dip!
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Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip
Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip is a creamy, nutty, and wholesome snack made by blending naturally sweet roasted carrots with mellow roasted garlic, smooth tahini, and bright lemon juice. This versatile dip is perfect as a party appetizer, quick snack, or healthy spread, offering rich flavor with simple ingredients and minimal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: About 1.5 cups 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern / Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4–5 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 head of garlic, top cut off
- 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for roasting
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Red chili flakes or dash of cayenne (for spice)
- Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or dill
- Almond butter or sunflower seed butter (tahini substitute)
- Splash of coconut milk or plant-based yogurt (for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Roast the Carrots and Garlic: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and chop the carrots into uniform chunks. Toss the carrots with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Cut the top off the garlic bulb to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, then wrap in foil. Place both the carrots and garlic on a baking sheet and roast for 25 to 30 minutes until carrots are tender and garlic is soft and caramelized.
- Prepare the Garlic: Once roasted, squeeze the softened garlic cloves out of their skins into a food processor or blender. Roasted garlic offers a milder, sweeter flavor essential for balancing the dip.
- Blend the Ingredients: Add the roasted carrots, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper into the food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Taste and adjust seasoning or texture by adding more lemon juice or olive oil if desired. Optionally add any of the spices or herbs.
- Serve or Store: Transfer the dip into a serving bowl. Enjoy immediately or chill for an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, chopped parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil for added appeal.
Notes
- Roast carrot pieces evenly by cutting them uniformly for consistent texture.
- Use high-quality, creamy tahini for the best smoothness and flavor depth.
- Adjust salt and acidity to taste before serving for balanced flavor.
- Pulse the dip instead of fully blending for a chunkier texture if preferred.
- Make ahead and refrigerate, as flavors will deepen after resting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze dip for up to 2 months; thaw overnight and stir before serving.
- Serve cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Roasted Garlic, Tahini, Carrot Dip, Vegan Dip, Healthy Snack, Appetizer, Middle Eastern, Gluten Free
