Vegan Parmesan Cheese Recipe That Tastes Just Like Real

If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine but follow a plant-based lifestyle, you know how challenging it can be to find a truly satisfying vegan alternative to traditional Parmesan cheese. Luckily, this vegan parmesan cheese recipe is here to save the day!

Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this dairy-free version packs all the nutty, savory flavor you crave, without any animal products. It’s quick to whip up, stores well, and adds a delightful cheesy kick to your favorite pasta dishes, salads, and even roasted veggies.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or simply looking to reduce dairy, this recipe is a versatile pantry staple that will elevate your meals effortlessly. Plus, it’s gluten-free, oil-free, and free from added preservatives, making it a healthy choice for everyone at the table.

Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how to make it at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan parmesan cheese is not only incredibly easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Unlike many store-bought vegan cheeses that can be expensive and full of additives, this homemade version uses natural ingredients like nuts and nutritional yeast to mimic the sharp, umami taste of traditional Parmesan.

It’s also customizable! You can adjust the saltiness and tanginess according to your preferences, making it perfect for sprinkling over pasta, stirring into sauces, or even topping your favorite casseroles.

Additionally, it’s a great source of plant-based protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, so you can enjoy it guilt-free.

If you love exploring vegan alternatives, be sure to check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes and Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners for more delicious dairy-free cooking ideas.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup raw cashews (soaked for 2 hours or use unsoaked for a grittier texture)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy, umami flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (adds subtle tang)
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a hint of smoky depth)

Equipment

• High-speed blender or food processor (to finely grind the ingredients)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Airtight container or jar (for storing your vegan parmesan)
• Spatula (to scrape down the sides of the blender)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cashews: If you have time, soak the raw cashews in water for at least 2 hours to soften them. This step is optional but helps achieve a finer, creamier texture.
2. Drain the cashews: After soaking, drain and rinse the cashews thoroughly under cold water.
3. Add ingredients to blender: Place the cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, lemon juice, and smoked paprika (if using) into your blender or food processor.
4. Pulse to combine: Pulse the mixture in short bursts, scraping down the sides as needed. Continue until the texture resembles coarse sand or finely grated cheese. Avoid over-processing into a paste.
5. Taste and adjust: Taste your vegan parmesan and adjust the salt, lemon juice, or nutritional yeast as desired for a sharper or tangier flavor.
6. Store properly: Transfer the vegan parmesan to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 2 weeks.
7. Use and enjoy: Sprinkle your homemade vegan parmesan over pasta, salads, soups, or roasted vegetables to add a delicious cheesy boost!

Tips & Variations

“For a nut-free version, try substituting sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for the cashews. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!”

If you prefer a sharper tang, add a splash more lemon juice or a pinch of apple cider vinegar. For extra richness, some recipes include a tiny bit of tahini or miso paste, which can deepen the umami flavor.

To make your vegan parmesan more crumbly and less powdery, pulse gently and stop before the nuts become too fine. This texture is perfect for topping dishes where you want a bit of bite.

Consider experimenting with herbs like dried basil or oregano for an herby twist on this classic cheese alternative.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan parmesan cheese is incredibly versatile and can enhance a wide variety of dishes. Sprinkle it over freshly cooked spaghetti or your favorite vegetable lasagna for a cheesy finish without dairy.

It’s also fantastic when stirred into creamy sauces like our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or used as a topping on roasted veggies, salads, or even popcorn for an unexpected burst of flavor.

Try it in vegan pesto, or mix it into grains like quinoa or couscous for a cheesy, savory twist. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

Homemade vegan parmesan cheese is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy cheesy flavors without dairy. This recipe is simple, affordable, and made with wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

Its nutty, savory profile adds depth and richness to countless dishes, making it a fantastic staple for your vegan kitchen.

With just a few minutes of prep, you get a delicious, nutritious condiment that enhances your meals while staying true to your plant-based values. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this vegan parmesan cheese will impress everyone at the table.

For more innovative and tasty plant-based recipes, explore our collection like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or the Soy Free Vegan Recipes for Delicious Plant-Based Meals.

Happy cooking!

{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Vegan Parmesan Cheese”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A simple and flavorful dairy-free parmesan alternative made with nuts and nutritional yeast. Perfect for sprinkling on pasta, salads, and more.”, “prepTime”: “PT10M”, “cookTime”: “PT0M”, “totalTime”: “PT10M”, “recipeYield”: “1 cup”, “recipeIngredient”: [“3/4 cup raw cashews”, “3 tablespoons nutritional yeast”, “3/4 teaspoon garlic powder”, “3/4 teaspoon onion powder”, “1/2 teaspoon sea salt”, “1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add all ingredients to a food processor or high-speed blender.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Pulse until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Be careful not to over-process into a paste.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “120”, “proteinContent”: “5g”, “fatContent”: “9g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “4g”}}