This Creamy Cashew Salad Dressing is a rich, dairy-free alternative that delivers a smooth, velvety texture with a touch of nuttiness. Perfect for drizzling over salads, grain bowls, or as a dip for veggies, it’s both healthy and delicious. Packed with healthy fats and bursting with flavor, this dressing will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Key Information:
- Preparation time:
10 minutes (plus soaking time for cashews)
- Cooking time:
None
- Total time:
10 minutes (plus soaking time)
- Number of servings:
8 servings
- Serving size:
2 tablespoons
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories:
90 kcal
- Protein:
2g
- Carbohydrates:
5g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat:
1g
- Fiber:
1g
- Sugar:
1g
- Sodium:
120mg
Ingredients:
- 150g (1 cup) raw cashews, soaked in water for at least
2 hours
- 120ml (1/2 cup) water (plus more if needed)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) maple syrup or honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
- 1/4 teaspoon (1g) ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) smoked paprika (optional, for extra
flavor)
- 1 tablespoon (15g) nutritional yeast (optional, for a
cheesy flavor)
Method of Preparation:
- Soak the Cashews:
Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak
for at least 2 hours or overnight. Once soaked, drain and rinse the
cashews.
- Blend the Ingredients:
In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, 1/2
cup water, olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), Dijon mustard,
maple syrup (or honey), garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend on high until the
mixture is smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick, add more
water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust:
Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed. For extra flavor, add
smoked paprika or nutritional yeast. Blend again until fully incorporated.
- Serve or Store:
Pour the dressing into a jar or airtight container. It can be used
immediately or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Shake well before each use.
Tips for Culinary Success:
- Quick Soaking Method:
If you're short on time, soak the cashews in boiling water for 15 minutes
instead of cold water for hours.
- Adjust Consistency:
For a thicker dip-like dressing, use less water. For a thinner dressing,
gradually add more water until you get the desired texture.
- Enhance the Flavor:
Add fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil for a bright, herby twist
on the classic cashew dressing.
- Storage Tip:
This dressing thickens in the fridge, so add a splash of water to loosen
it up when ready to serve.
- Add a Kick:
For a spicier version, blend in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot
sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use roasted cashews instead of raw? While raw cashews are preferred for their creamy
texture, roasted unsalted cashews can be used, but the flavor will be
slightly nuttier.
- Is this dressing suitable for vegans? Yes, this dressing is vegan as long as you use maple
syrup instead of honey for sweetness.
- Can I freeze the dressing? Yes, this dressing freezes well. Store it in an
airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and blend
it briefly before using.
- What can I use as a substitute for cashews? If you're allergic to cashews, try using sunflower
seeds or blanched almonds. The texture may be slightly different but still
creamy.
- What dishes pair well with this dressing? This creamy cashew dressing is versatile! Use it over
green salads, grain bowls, roasted vegetables, or as a dip for raw
veggies.
This Creamy Cashew Salad Dressing is
the perfect addition to any meal, offering a dairy-free, creamy, and flavorful
alternative to traditional dressings. Its smooth texture and customizable
flavor make it a must-have in your kitchen, ready to elevate any salad or side
dish to gourmet levels. Enjoy the richness without the guilt!