Looking for a delicious, healthy, and vibrant dip to elevate your snack game? This best vegan kale dip recipe is exactly what you need!
Packed with the nutritional powerhouse that is kale, combined with creamy cashews and zesty lemon, this dip is as flavorful as it is good for you. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, prepping for a picnic, or just craving a nutritious snack, this kale dip will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
What sets this dip apart is its perfect balance of earthiness from the kale, creaminess from the soaked cashews, and a subtle tang from nutritional yeast and fresh lemon juice. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just a few minutes.
This recipe is perfect for vegans and anyone looking to add more greens to their diet without sacrificing taste. Ready to impress your friends and family with a dip that’s both healthy and mouthwatering?
Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan kale dip is a game changer for several reasons:
- Nutritious and wholesome: Kale is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, and the cashews add healthy fats and protein.
- Creamy without dairy: The soaked cashews create a luscious texture that mimics traditional creamy dips.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal prep.
- Versatile: Perfect as a dip, spread, or even a salad dressing.
- Allergy-friendly: Gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup filtered water (more as needed)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for a subtle smoky flavor)
Equipment
- High-speed blender or food processor
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Bowl for soaking cashews
- Spatula for scraping the sides
- Air-tight container for storage
Instructions
- Soak the cashews: Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover with water. Let them soak for at least 4 hours or overnight to soften. Drain and rinse before using.
- Prepare the kale: Wash and chop your kale leaves, removing the tough stems. You want about 2 packed cups of leaves.
- Blend the base: In your blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, lemon juice, minced garlic, nutritional yeast, sea salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Add half of the water to start. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add kale and seasonings: Add the chopped kale and smoked paprika (if using) to the blender. Pulse until the kale is finely chopped and incorporated. Add more water a tablespoon at a time if the dip is too thick.
- Adjust taste and texture: Taste the dip and adjust the salt, lemon juice, or garlic according to your preference. Blend briefly again if needed.
- Chill and serve: Transfer the dip to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips & Variations
Want to add a little kick? Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for spice.
- For extra creaminess: Add 2 tablespoons of tahini or vegan mayonnaise.
- Make it nut-free: Substitute cashews with cooked white beans or silken tofu.
- Add herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, or cilantro can brighten the dip even more.
- Use kale alternatives: Try spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/4 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 110 |
Fat | 8g |
Saturated Fat | 1g |
Carbohydrates | 7g |
Fiber | 2g |
Protein | 4g |
Vitamin A | 80% DV |
Vitamin C | 25% DV |
Calcium | 6% DV |
Iron | 10% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This kale dip is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Serve with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a vibrant snack.
- Use as a spread on your favorite crackers or toasted bread slices.
- Mix into cooked pasta or grain bowls for an extra punch of flavor and nutrients.
- Top your vegan sandwiches or wraps with a generous smear of this dip.
- For a party, offer it alongside pita chips or tortilla chips for easy dipping.
Conclusion
This best vegan kale dip recipe is a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet while indulging in a creamy, flavorful treat. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this nutrient-dense dip any time, whether for a quick snack or entertaining guests.
Its versatility means it pairs well with a variety of dishes, and its wholesome ingredients support your healthy lifestyle without compromising on taste.
Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own. For more exciting plant-based recipes, check out our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes, Low Sodium Hummus Recipe, and Leche De Pantera Recipe.
Happy dipping!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Kale Dip Recipe
Description: A creamy and flavorful vegan kale dip perfect for parties or snacks. Made with simple ingredients for a healthy and delicious treat.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT5M
Total Time: PT15M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 2 hours
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Drain and rinse soaked cashews.
- Steam kale for 3-5 minutes until tender.
- Combine cashews, kale, garlic, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, water, salt, pepper, olive oil, and smoked paprika in a blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 6g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 12g
{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Best Vegan Kale Dip Recipe”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A creamy and flavorful vegan kale dip perfect for parties or snacks. Made with simple ingredients for a healthy and delicious treat.”, “prepTime”: “PT10M”, “cookTime”: “PT5M”, “totalTime”: “PT15M”, “recipeYield”: “6 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“2 cups chopped kale, stems removed”, “1 cup raw cashews, soaked for 2 hours”, “1/4 cup nutritional yeast”, “2 cloves garlic”, “2 tablespoons lemon juice”, “1/4 cup water”, “1/2 teaspoon salt”, “1/4 teaspoon black pepper”, “1 tablespoon olive oil”, “1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Drain and rinse soaked cashews.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Steam kale for 3-5 minutes until tender.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Combine cashews, kale, garlic, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, water, salt, pepper, olive oil, and smoked paprika in a blender.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Blend until smooth and creamy.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Adjust seasoning to taste.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Chill for 30 minutes before serving.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “180”, “proteinContent”: “6g”, “fatContent”: “12g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “12g”}}