Spreadable Vegan Cashew Cheese

I have discovered that nuts are one of the most versatile cooking ingredients. They make a great substitute for most things dairy (cream, cheese, milk) and can be used to give structure (and flavor) to pie and dessert bases. If you can't tell, I love cooking with nuts. I wanted to share this recipe because not only is it delicious, but it is also a good one when you need food fast.



As long as you have the staples I have outlined here on hand you will always be prepared to make this recipe. I even added in substitutions for when you are in a pinch and a little behind in shopping. ​I made this the other night when I was feeling too fatigued to cook, cause for this recipe you just pop all the ingredients in a food processor and that's it. Spread it on some bread of choice (I use oil and sugar-free whole wheat) top it with tomatoes and voila, you've got yourself a meal in minutes. This is also a great dish to share at potlucks, and trust me, everyone will gobble this stuff up!

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Vegan Cashew Cheese Recipe:
vegan, gluten-free, refined sugar-free, plant-based

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw cashews (can also substitute raw almonds slivers, raw walnuts, or raw pecans)
• 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (can also substitute apple cider vinegar)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (can alternatively use one clove of roasted garlic...if you are feeling fancy)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Add nuts and nutritional yeast to food processor and process until nuts are very fine and then add in lemon juice, garlic powder and salt. Process to combine well.
2. Add the water and process until it is the consistency of hummus. If it is too thick add water 1 Tbsp at a time.
3. Use as a spread on bread/sandwiches or as a veggie dip.