Cashew Dip or Dressing: A Zesty and Creamy Delight
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Description:
Discover the perfect blend of zingy garlic and subtly sweet cashews in this quick and versatile Cashew Dip or Dressing. Ideal for pairing with fresh vegetables for dipping or drizzling over salads, this recipe is a refreshing and nutritious addition to any meal. Its creamy texture and rich flavor are sure to make it a favorite, whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a simple snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups raw cashews
- 3 to 7 cloves garlic (adjust based on your preference for garlic intensity)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup water (or more, depending on desired consistency)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Cashews: Begin by placing the raw cashews into the bowl of a food processor. This will form the base of your dip or dressing, providing a rich, creamy texture.
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Add Garlic and Seasoning: Peel and add the garlic cloves to the food processor along with the cashews. The garlic will impart a robust flavor that pairs wonderfully with the natural sweetness of the cashews.
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Incorporate Olive Oil and Salt: Drizzle in the olive oil and sprinkle the sea salt over the cashews and garlic. The olive oil adds a silky smoothness to the dip, while the sea salt enhances all the flavors.
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Process the Mixture: Pulse the food processor to combine the ingredients into a coarse mixture. Gradually add about 1/2 cup of water while processing. Continue to blend until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
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Adjust Consistency: Check the texture of your dip or dressing. If you prefer a thicker dip, stop adding water when you achieve the desired consistency. For a thinner, more pourable dressing, slowly add additional water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the perfect consistency.
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Chill and Serve: Transfer the mixture to a container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once chilled, give the dip or dressing a good stir before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
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As a Dip: Serve with an assortment of fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips. The creamy texture and garlicky flavor make it a perfect accompaniment for veggie platters.
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As a Dressing: Drizzle over your favorite salad for a delightful twist. It’s also great as a topping for grain bowls or as a spread for sandwiches.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 456.2 kcal
- Fat: 38.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 7.2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 12.7 mg
- Carbohydrates: 23.1 g
- Fiber: 2.1 g
- Sugar: 3.5 g
- Protein: 10.6 g
Keywords: Nuts, Vegan, < 15 Mins, Easy
