21 Sesame Seed Recipes That Are Toasty, Nutty, Crunchy Perfection

Sesame seeds are an unsung hero of the kitchen. These humble seeds can add crunch and a subtle nuttiness to so many dishes. Think beyond the burger bun. The seeds play a supporting role in some spice blends like shichimi togarashi and furikake. You can substitute them for breading in a variety of dishes without sacrificing that satisfying texture. Plus, there are tons of health benefits to cooking with sesame seeds, which are full of healthy fats, hearty protein, dietary fiber, antioxidants and a plethora of essential minerals. Just 1/4 cup of sesame seeds contains more calcium than an 8-ounce glass of milk! Whichever way you choose to use the seeds, just make sure you properly toast them to make the most of their flavor, which works just as well in sweet recipes it does in savory. These airy cookies are rolled in sesame seeds to give them a nuttiness that tempers the sweetness of the dough.

Cooking a whole chicken in a cast iron skillet gives you the benefit of being able to go from the stove top to the oven in no time! When making this recipe, we suggest taking a few minutes to sear the bottom of the chicken before roasting to ensure that your bird is well-browned all over. You should also spoon the sticky sesame seed sauce over the chicken twice in the last 10-15 minutes of roasting, so it can bond with the chicken and lightly caramelize in the oven.

Combine sesame seeds with other nuts and seeds to create a hearty granola that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe is low in carbs and sugar and full of heart-healthy fats.

Don’t underestimate the power of a sesame seed garnish. This easy roasted carrot recipe gets a touch of sweetness from honey, and a shower of black sesame seeds adds texture and crunch.