As a teen, I had a wonderful first job experience working in a Taos restaurant. The Apple Tree restaurant closed years ago, but it will always hold a special place in my heart! Recently I was feeling nostalgic, chatting with Ryan about what we used to order and how much we loved their signature Sesame Tamari dressing!
So, I decided to (re)create a Paleo/Whole30 compatible version!
I didn’t have the original recipe but remembered it had been published in a Taos Recipe cookbook in the 90’s (random memory, lol) so I started searching. It was out of print but I managed to find it! Let’s just say sometimes I like a fun challenge/distraction!
This dressing is wonderful on a simple mixed greens salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and shredded carrots! I also love it as a dip for raw or roasted veggies. Thinned with a bit of extra lemon juice, it makes a great marinade too! It freezes well if you want to make a large batch ahead of time.
PrintWhole30 Tangy Sesame Dressing
A Whole30 version of the Apple Tree restaurant signature dressing! A Taos, NM favorite!
Ingredients
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos (I used The New Primal)
- 2/3 cup extra light tasting olive oil or safflower oil
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1/3 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon parsley, minced
Instructions
- In a large measuring cup (I use a 4 cup) or bowl, add all ingredients and and blend with an immersion blender. If you don’t have an immersion blender, beat together with a whisk until ingredients are well mixed.
- Store in the refrigerator in a mason jar or small container for 7-10 days.
Keywords: Whole30, Paleo, Keto salad dressing
I have fond memories of feeling independent, learning new things, and meeting/working with lots of interesting people at the Apple Tree!
It certainly ignited my love of exploring new cuisine and cooking. I didn’t truly love cooking until my 30’s (ha!) but the amazing food and hospitality have always inspired me. Making this dressing brought back fun memories, and I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!
Note: After the Apple Tree closed Lambert’s of Taos took over their space on historic Bent Street. It’s one of our favorite places to dine in Taos, and we’ve celebrated many occasions there! Not the same menu but amazing nonetheless and we love spending time in the cozy indoor dining rooms in the winter and their lovely shaded patio in summer…if you visit Taos, check it out!
Thanks for stopping by! Have a wonderful day!
Photography: Kristen Massad
