Bring a small pot of water to boil. Remove the leaves and stem from the beetroot and place into the pot. Reduce to a simmer and place the lid on. Simmer for at least 30 minutes until they are tender. Remove from the pot, let it cool and with your fingers remove the skin, which should slide off easily.
Cut beets into small pieces.
Add the beetroot, garlic cloves, tahini, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper into a food processor.
Blend until pureed. You should get a bright purple tahini dip with a creamy texture.
Notes
Instead of boiling the beetroot, you can roast them in the oven for a deeper, sweeter flavour. Simply wrap the beetroot in foil and roast at 200°C or 400°F for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Let them cool before peeling and using in the recipe.
Add a pinch of ground cumin, coriander, or paprika to the beet tahini for an extra layer of warmth to complement the beetroot and tahini.
If you like, you can mix in freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, chervil or dill for a fresh twist.
For a creamier texture, you can add in some plain or Greek yoghurt for a creamy texture or for a vegan version, add olive oil, a dairy free yoghurt alternative or silken tofu.
If you prefer your pink tahini dressing to have a sweeter profile, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Select small to medium-sized beetroots that are firm and have smooth skin. Avoid beetroots that are soft, wrinkled, or have cuts, bruises, or blemishes.
Be careful not to overcook the beets, as they can become mushy and lose their flavour and vibrant colour. Aim for tender-firm, where a knife easily pierces through or is fork tender but there's still a slight bite.
Allow the beetroots to cool naturally before peeling. This prevents them from becoming mushy.
High-quality tahini makes a difference. Look for a brand with a fresh, nutty aroma and a smooth texture. If the tahini has separated from the oil, stir it carefully before use.
Taste your dressing after blending and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to create a balance of flavours. You can also add a pinch of sugar or honey for a touch of sweetness.
If the dressing is too thick for your liking, you can add a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.