Description
Discover the vibrant flavors of this Roasted Garlic Tahini Carrot Dip, a creamy and aromatic vegan appetizer that combines sweet roasted carrots and mellow garlic with rich tahini and warm spices. Perfect for entertaining, this healthy Mediterranean-inspired dip is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 head garlic, top sliced off to expose cloves
Oils and Condiments
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Spices and Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Blending Liquids and Garnishes
- 2–4 tablespoons water (as needed for blending)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Additional olive oil for drizzling (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Peel and chop the carrots, then place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the carrots and toss to coat evenly.
- Prepare Garlic for Roasting: Slice the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves, drizzle with some olive oil, and wrap it securely in foil. Place the wrapped garlic on the same baking sheet as the carrots.
- Roast Carrots and Garlic: Roast the carrots and garlic in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and golden, and the garlic cloves are soft and caramelized.
- Cool and Extract Roasted Garlic: Remove from the oven and let the vegetables cool slightly. Once cooled enough to handle, squeeze the soft roasted garlic cloves out of their skins into a food processor.
- Combine Ingredients in Food Processor: Add the roasted carrots, tahini, lemon juice, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the food processor with the garlic.
- Blend the Dip: Blend the mixture until smooth, adding water one tablespoon at a time to achieve your preferred consistency. Pause to scrape down the sides if needed.
- Adjust Seasonings and Serve: Taste the dip and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil if you like. Serve with pita chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- This dip can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld.
- Roasting the garlic softens its pungency and brings out a rich, sweet flavor profile.
- For a spicy variation, add a pinch of cayenne pepper during blending.
- Serve as a healthy appetizer or snack for parties and gatherings.