Easy Japanese sesame dressing recipe (gluten-free and dairy-free)

This Japanese sesame dressing recipe is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, and perfect for salads, veggie platters, or dipping.

I’ve always loved the deep, nutty flavor of Japanese sesame seed dressing. I used to order it all the time when we ate out or picked up takeaway salads. But when I had to start eating gluten- and dairy-free, finding a version I could enjoy became almost impossible. Every bottled version seemed to have something I couldn’t eat.

Eventually, we found a recipe to tweak to fit my dietary needs. It turned out even better than the store-bought versions I remembered. Now, this is the only Japanese sesame dressing recipe I use. It’s quick, it’s easy, and I always have the ingredients on hand.

What you need to make this Japanese sesame seed dressing

• Roasted white sesame seeds: – I like to hand-grind them with a mortar and pestle for texture, but a coffee grinder works too
• Japanese mayonnaise: – We use the Kewpie brand, and it makes a big difference in flavor from regular mayonnaise. Japanese mayo is less sweet and tangier than regular mayo. Also, be sure to check for gluten, as it is produced in different countries, and some may contain it.
• Peanut butter: – smooth, not crunchy
• Rice vinegar: – choose an unseasoned variety
• Gluten-free soy sauce, or tamari. Be sure to check that it’s gluten-free
• Brown sugar: I use light brown sugar for the right balance of sweetness
• Dashi powder: just a small amount adds umami flavor

Tips and serving suggestions for our Japanese sesame dressing recipe

This sesame seed dressing is rich and flavorful. It’s perfect on a simple green salad, but we recommend not tossing the salad ahead of time. Drizzle the dressing just before serving to keep the leaves crisp. In fact, in the photo above, we divided it into two dishes for two people and served it alongside our green salad.

1. Double or triple the recipe and store it in a glass jar.
2. It keeps for up to a month in the fridge, but we usually go through it faster.
3. Shake or stir well before each use, especially if it’s been sitting for a bit.
4. It also works as a dip. We like it with sliced cucumbers, carrots, and red bell peppers.
5. It even works on a mezze platter, despite being placed alongside Mediterranean favorites like hummus and olive tapenade, thus adding a Japanese-inspired twist.

Some readers have asked . . .

Is Japanese sesame dressing gluten-free?
Not always. Many bottled versions contain soy sauce that is made with wheat. This recipe uses gluten-free soy sauce, making it safe if you’re gluten-free.

Can I substitute the peanut butter?
Yes. Almond butter or tahini can be used as an alternative. Each gives the dressing a slightly different flavor.

How long does sesame dressing last in the fridge?
It will keep for up to a month if stored in an airtight glass jar. Just stir or shake before using.

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Our Japanese sesame dressing recipe

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