If you’re looking for a flavorful way to bring your veggies, salads, or grain bowls to life, this zesty sesame lime dressing is it. It has the perfect balance of lime juice, toasted sesame oil, and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup or brown sugar, making it great for everything from snow peas to roasted carrots to Buddha bowls.
Inspired by bold Asian flavors, it works especially well with leafy greens, crunchy cabbage salads, or even air-fried edamame. We always keep a jar in the fridge—it’s our go-to for summer slaws, carrot salads, and even as a dip for snap peas.
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Ingredients for Sesame Lime Dressing
- fresh lime juice
- lime zest
- toasted sesame oil
- olive oil (or sunflower/vegetable oil)
- vegan soy sauce, coconut aminos, or gluten-free tamari
- maple syrup or brown sugar
- rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- grated fresh ginger
- garlic
- Optional: Dijon mustard (for creaminess)
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for heat)
- Optional: sprinkle of sesame seeds (for texture)
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a food processor, small
blender , or mixing bowl, add all ingredients. Blend or whisk until smooth and creamy. - Adjust to taste: Want your sesame lime dressing tangier? Add more lime juice or vinegar. Sweeter? A touch more maple syrup. For a creamier vibe, toss in the Dijon.
- Use or store: Use immediately, or store in an airtight jar for up to 5–6 days in the fridge. Shake well before using.
Delicious Ways to Use It
This sesame lime dressing pairs perfectly with:
- Asian salads with baby bok choy, matchstick carrots, and snow peas
- Rice bowls, Buddha Bowls, grain bowls—try it over brown rice, tofu, and sautéed veggies
- Carrot salad or crunchy cabbage salads
- Seaweed salad, kimchi brine-inspired dishes, or anything with Asian influences
In this eBook, you will learn:
- What Buddha bowls are and why they are the PERFECT meal
- How to create your own awesome combinations based on your needs and specific tastes
- Some of our favorite ingredient combinations (recipes) plus ideas for sauces and dressings
Pro Tips
- Want a creamy sesame-lime vinaigrette? Add a spoonful of tahini or vegan mayo.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds or ground seeds just before serving for a little extra texture and anti-inflammatory phytochemical boost.
- Store extra dressing in a glass jar with a tight lid—it’ll stay fresh and zippy.
Love this recipe? Check out our full collection of vegetarian and vegan recipes for more delicious ideas!
Zesty Sesame Lime Dressing
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or sunflower/vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce coconut aminos, or gluten-free tamari
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 small garlic clove minced or grated
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a food processor, small blender, or mixing bowl, add all ingredients. Blend or whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust to taste: Want it tangier? Add more lime juice or vinegar. Sweeter? A touch more maple syrup. For a creamier vibe, toss in the Dijon.
- Use or store: Use immediately, or store in an airtight jar for up to 5–6 days in the fridge. Shake well before using.
