This cashew cream is silky, savory, and packed with bright lemon flavor for an easy dairy-free sauce you can use in so many ways. Nutritional yeast gives it a subtle cheesy taste, making it perfect for pasta, bowls, dips, and more.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- Cashews: Create the rich, creamy base and blend into a smooth dairy-free sauce.
- Water: Helps loosen the mixture and control the final texture.
- Lemon juice and nutritional yeast: Add brightness and a cheesy, savory flavor.
- Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper: Round everything out with simple seasoning.
Alternative Ingredients
- Raw cashews: Substitute with soaked sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
- Fresh lemon juice: Replace with a small splash of apple cider vinegar if needed.
- Nutritional yeast: Leave it out for a more neutral cream or use less for a milder flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- Supports Satiety: Healthy fats from cashews help keep you full and satisfied.
- Aids Digestion: A simple ingredient list can be easier on digestion than heavy dairy sauces.
- Supports Heart Health: Nuts contain unsaturated fats that support overall heart health.
- Adds Plant-Based Flavor: This is a great way to add creamy richness without dairy.
Expert Tips
Soften first: If your cashews are not very fresh, soaking helps them blend much smoother.
Blend longer: Let the blender run a bit extra for the creamiest, most velvety texture.
Adjust texture slowly: Add water 1 tablespoon at a time so it does not get too thin.
Brighten flavor: A little extra lemon juice at the end can make the whole sauce pop.
Use a strong blender: A high-speed blender gives the smoothest finish with the least effort.
FAQs
Not always. If they are soft and you have a strong blender, you may be able to skip it.
Yes, but it will lose some of that savory, cheesy flavor.
It usually needs more blending time, softer cashews, or a splash more water.
Yes, just use less water or stop blending once it reaches your preferred texture.
Yes, it works well tossed with hot pasta, especially with a little reserved pasta water.
Serving Suggestions
Use this cashew cream as a sauce for pasta, grain bowls, roasted vegetables, or baked potatoes. It also works well as a dip, spread, or drizzle for wraps and sandwiches.
Storage Suggestions
Store cashew cream in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 to 5 days. Give it a stir before using, since it may thicken as it chills.
You’ll also enjoy:
Cashew Cream
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1/2 cup water plus more as needed
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- If your cashews are not very soft, soak them in hot water for 20 to 30 minutes, then drain well.1 cup raw cashews
- Add the cashews, water, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to a blender.1/2 cup water, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 2 tbsp nutritional yeast, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
- Add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the cashew cream reaches your preferred consistency.
- Taste and adjust with more lemon juice or salt if needed.
Notes
- Blend Thoroughly: Extra blending time makes the texture much smoother.
- Adjust Slowly: Add water a little at a time to control the consistency.
- Taste Before Serving: A final pinch of salt or squeeze of lemon can make a big difference.
- Soak if Needed: Softer cashews give you the creamiest result.
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Nutrition
Disclaimer: I am a health and wellness coach with a degree in health science from Arizona State University. However, I am not a doctor or registered dietitian. Any information or advice provided on this website is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any dietary or lifestyle changes, especially if you have a medical condition. The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice or a substitute for it.
Loved this one as I love cashews!