Cashew Dip or Dressing
Creamy, tangy, and endlessly versatile, this Cashew Dip or Dressing is the plant-based condiment your kitchen has been waiting for. Made with soaked raw cashews, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of maple syrup, this recipe delivers a luscious texture and a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and subtly sweet flavors. With the option to adjust the consistency, it works beautifully as a velvety dip for veggies or a pourable dressing for salads and grain bowls. This dairy-free, vegan recipe is quick to prepare (only 10 minutes of active time!) and uses wholesome ingredients for a healthier alternative to store-bought options. Whether you're hosting a gathering, meal prepping for the week, or exploring plant-based eating, this cashew-based sauce is a must-try.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 2 cups water (for soaking)
- 0.5 cup filtered water (for blending)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 medium garlic clove
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons optional water (to adjust consistency)
Instructions
Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover them with 2 cups of water. Allow them to soak for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results. If you're short on time, use hot water to soak them for 30 minutes.
Drain and rinse the soaked cashews thoroughly.
In a high-speed blender, add the soaked cashews, 0.5 cup of filtered water, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, garlic clove, salt, and ground black pepper.
Blend the ingredients on high until smooth and creamy. This may take around 1-2 minutes depending on your blender.
Turn off the blender and taste the mixture. Adjust salt and seasoning as needed. For a thinner consistency (if using as a dressing), add 1-2 tablespoons of additional water and blend again.
Transfer the cashew dip or dressing to a serving dish or jar. It can be served immediately or chilled in the fridge for 30 minutes to thicken slightly.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir well before using as the mixture may thicken further when chilled.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
662 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 49.3 g | 63% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.8 g | 44% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1194 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 45.1 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.0 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.0 g | ||
| Protein | 21.2 g | 42% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 52 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 8.0 mg | 44% | |
| Potassium | 813 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
