Cashew Dip is a vegetarian, vegan-friendly dip that pairs perfectly with raw vegetables, crackers, and so much more. This creamy, delicious dip is the perfect appetizer or snack for movie nights, watching the big game or entertaining.
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I first made this cashew dip to serve with Sweet Potato Fritters, but its creamy, nutty and somewhat cheesy flavor is also delicious with raw veggies and crackers. There is just a little “bite” from the raw garlic so it’s kid-friendly too.
Why This Recipe Works
This is a really quick and easy recipe. It only takes 5 ingredients (plus water) and about 15 minutes to make.
This dip is dairy free, gluten free, vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by swapping out the honey for agave.
It makes for a healthy, tasty snack or appetizer that is just as perfect for parties and entertaining as it is for a movie night or staying home to watch the big game.
How To Make Cashew Dip
Ingredients
- Fresh squeezed lemon juice works best.
- Cashews can be salted or unsalted as most of the salt will be rinsed off.
The full recipe and instructions can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Prep!
There is no prep work for this recipe except to squeeze the lemon juice.
Create!
Add the cashews to a bowl and cover with hot water. Allow to soak for at least 10 minutes.
Drain the cashews and add to a blender cup or food processor.
Add the garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, honey (or agave), and water.
Process until smooth.
Chef’s Tip: if a thinner sauce is desired, gradually add more water until the desired consistency is reached.
Present!
Transfer to a bowl for serving or spread on top of fritters, wraps and sandwiches.
Tips and Techniques
- If vegan, replace the honey with agave.
- For a thinner sauce-like dip, gradually increase the water until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use within 5-7 days.
FAQ’s
Why Soak Cashews?
Soaking cashews in hot water softens them so that you get creamy results when they are puréed.
What Do You Serve With Cashew Dip?
Cashew Dip can be served with raw vegetables like carrots, celery, bell peppers, broccoli, cauliflower and tomatoes. It can also be served with crackers, fritters, wraps and sandwiches.
Can You Freeze Cashew Dip?
While fresh is always best, this recipe can be frozen. The consistency of the dip may change once thawed.
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Cashew Dip
Ingredients
- 1 cup cashews
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey (or agave if vegan)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 6 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Add cashews to a bowl and cover with the hot water. Allow to soak at least 10 minutes.
- Drain the cashews and dispose of the water.
- Add the cashews, garlic, olive oil, honey (or agave), lemon juice and 6 tablespoons water to a food processor or blender cup. Process until smooth. Add more water if a thinner sauce is desired. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Transfer the dip to a serving bowl.
Notes
Tips and Techniques
- If vegan, replace the honey with agave.
- For a thinner sauce-like dip, gradually increase the water until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use within 5-7 days.
Kim says
Could I use pure maple syrup in place of agave?
Lauren Vavala Harris says
Hi Kim,
Maple syrup, honey and agave are often used interchangeably so it should work out just fine, but with a slightly different flavor.
– Lauren
Paula says
This cashew dip was a big success at a party I hosted last weekend. I loved that everyone could eat it, and it went perfectly on the veggie platter.
Charah says
This recipe is so creamy and delicious, my family loves it. thanks for sharing
DK says
Wow – this cashew dip is really good! It’s unexpectedly creamy and just a delight!
Vanessa says
So delicious with some cucumber slices and the perfect way to use some of my Costco bag of cashews:)
Katrin says
That’s a quick and easy yet so tasty and lively creamy dip. Have done it twice now and it’s material for unlimited repetition 🙂
Debbie says
Can you bake this in the oven and serve warm?
Lauren Vavala says
Hi Debbie! I never thought to do that, but looking over the ingredients I can’t see any reason why it can’t be warmed up. I wouldn’t bake it too long, just long enough to warm through. If you try that please let me know how it turns out 🙂
– Lauren
Jessica says
I doubled the garlic & lemon, and it was perfect!
Shanna says
I made this for my family for a little snack and it was gone before I knew it. This one is definitely a keeper.
veenaazmanov says
Never tried such an amazing Dip. This is surely unique and I definitely need to check on it. Easy and best for a party option.
Jo says
Just made this Cashew Dip, and it was a huge success! Holding on to this one for sure 🙂
Brianna says
I absolutely love this cashew dip, perfect for my afternoon snack with some veggies.
Sara Welch says
Tried this for an afternoon snack and it doesn’t disappoint! So creamy and delicious; easily, a new favorite dip!