When it comes to entertaining, picnicking, or just enjoying a plant-based snack, nothing hits the spot quite like cold vegan dips. These creamy, zesty, and colorful spreads not only bring a burst of flavor to the table, but they’re also packed with wholesome ingredients.
Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, prepping for meal plans, or just looking to jazz up your snack game, having a repertoire of easy cold vegan dip recipes is a game-changer. From classic hummus to refreshing herbed avocado cream, these dips are endlessly versatile—perfect for spreading on toast, scooping with veggies, or dolloping over grain bowls.
In this post, I’m sharing my favorite cold vegan dips that will delight vegans and non-vegans alike. Get ready to dip, scoop, and spread your way to snack-time bliss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Most cold vegan dips come together in less than 10 minutes with minimal prep.
- Healthy and nourishing: Packed with whole foods like beans, nuts, seeds, and fresh veggies.
- Perfect for any occasion: Great for parties, lunchboxes, meal prep, or healthy snacking.
- Customizable: Adapt the flavor, texture, and spice level to suit your preferences.
- Allergy-friendly: Naturally dairy-free, egg-free, and many can be made nut-free or gluten-free.
- Meal-prep friendly: Make in advance and store in the fridge for grab-and-go snacks or meals.
Ingredients
Below is a handy ingredient table for three must-try cold vegan dips: Classic Hummus, Creamy Avocado Herb Dip, and Roasted Red Pepper White Bean Dip.
| Ingredient | Classic Hummus | Avocado Herb Dip | Red Pepper White Bean Dip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chickpeas | 1 can (15 oz), drained | – | – |
| White beans | – | – | 1 can (15 oz), drained |
| Avocado | – | 2 ripe | – |
| Tahini | 1/4 cup | – | – |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | 2 tbsp | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic | 1 clove | 1 clove | 1 clove |
| Fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, chives, etc.) | – | 1/4 cup, chopped | – |
| Roasted red pepper | – | – | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp (optional) | 1 tbsp | 1 tbsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | To taste | To taste |
| Cumin | 1/2 tsp | – | – |
Equipment
- Food processor or high-speed blender
- Spatula for scraping down sides
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board for chopping ingredients
- Bowl and spoon for serving and mixing
- Airtight containers for storage
Instructions
Classic Hummus
- Prepare the chickpeas: Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water.
- Blend the base: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, and a pinch of salt.
- Process until smooth: Blend until creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. Add 2-3 tbsp cold water for extra creaminess.
- Adjust and season: Taste and add more lemon juice, salt, or cumin to your liking.
- Serve: Transfer to a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika or chopped herbs if desired.
Creamy Avocado Herb Dip
- Prepare ingredients: Pit and peel the avocados; chop the fresh herbs and garlic.
- Blend: Add avocados, lemon juice, herbs, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to a food processor.
- Process: Blend until very smooth and creamy, pausing to scrape the sides as needed.
- Taste and adjust: Add more lemon juice or herbs for a brighter, fresher flavor as desired.
- Serve: Spoon into a serving bowl and top with extra chopped herbs for a beautiful finish.
Roasted Red Pepper White Bean Dip
- Prepare base: Drain and rinse the white beans.
- Combine ingredients: Add beans, roasted red pepper, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to a food processor.
- Blend: Process until silky smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Add water if you prefer a thinner dip.
- Season: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For extra zing, add a splash of vinegar or hot sauce.
- Serve: Transfer to a bowl and garnish with a swirl of olive oil and a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
Tips & Variations
- Add extra flavor: Try smoked paprika, chili flakes, or homemade chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Make it nut-free: Omit tahini or substitute with sunflower seed butter.
- Use different beans: Swap chickpeas for black beans or cannellini beans for a unique twist.
- Boost nutrition: Add a handful of spinach, kale, or cooked carrots to any dip for extra veggies.
- Oil-free option: Skip the olive oil and use aquafaba (the liquid from canned beans) for creaminess.
- Meal prep: Store dips in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Stir before serving.
“Always taste as you go! Adjust lemon, salt, and spices to your liking for the perfect dip every time.”
Nutrition Facts
Here’s an approximate nutrition breakdown per 1/4 cup serving for each dip. These values are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients and brands used.
| Dip | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Hummus | 110 | 4g | 5g | 12g | 3g |
| Avocado Herb Dip | 90 | 1g | 8g | 6g | 3g |
| Red Pepper White Bean Dip | 80 | 3g | 3g | 10g | 2g |
Serving Suggestions
- Veggie sticks: Serve with carrot, cucumber, celery, bell pepper, or snap peas for a crunchy, healthy snack.
- Pita bread or chips: Scoop up dips with warm pita, pita chips, or your favorite crackers.
- Sandwich spread: Use as a flavorful layer in wraps, sandwiches, or burgers.
- Grain bowls: Dollop over quinoa, rice, or ancient grains with roasted veggies.
- Salad topping: Thin with water or more lemon juice and drizzle over salads for creamy, dairy-free dressing.
- Party platter: Add to a snack board with olives, nuts, and fresh fruit for a colorful vegan appetizer spread.
Listicle: 5 Irresistible Cold Vegan Dip Recipes
Ready to take your plant-based snacking to the next level? Here are five of my favorite cold vegan dip recipes that are sure to impress at any occasion!
Creamy Classic Hummus
This beloved Middle Eastern dip is a staple for a reason—rich, savory, and endlessly versatile. Serve with fresh veggies or pita for a classic combo.
Avocado Herb Dip
This dip is like guacamole’s sophisticated cousin: vibrant, herby, and ultra-creamy. It’s perfect for spreading on toast or as a cool topping for vegan chipotle bowls.
Roasted Red Pepper White Bean Dip
Sweet roasted red peppers blend beautifully with creamy white beans for a smoky, tangy, and protein-packed dip. The color is particularly striking on any appetizer table.
Sunflower Seed Ranch Dip
- 1 cup raw sunflower seeds, soaked 2+ hours
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tbsp fresh dill
- 1 tbsp parsley
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Drain and rinse sunflower seeds.
- Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender.
- Blend until completely smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
- Adjust seasoning and thin with water if desired.
- Chill before serving with veggies or crackers.
Spicy Black Bean Salsa Dip
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Mix thoroughly and let sit for 15 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos!
Bonus Recipe Resources
- Love experimenting with dips? Try Cauliflower Vegan Cheese Sauce for a lighter “cheesy” option.
- Explore more plant-based mains with A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.
- Looking for dairy-free comfort food? Don’t miss Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals.
Conclusion
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Mix thoroughly and let sit for 15 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos!
Bonus Recipe Resources
- Love experimenting with dips? Try Cauliflower Vegan Cheese Sauce for a lighter “cheesy” option.
- Explore more plant-based mains with A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.
- Looking for dairy-free comfort food? Don’t miss Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals.
Conclusion
Cold vegan dips are an absolute must-have for anyone who loves delicious, vibrant, and healthy plant-based eating. With just a handful of pantry staples and a trusty food processor, you can whip up an array of spreads that are perfect for parties, meal prep, or everyday snacking.
These recipes not only showcase the incredible variety of vegan flavors but also make it easy to enjoy more veggies and whole foods in your diet. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, a curious foodie, or just looking for healthy snack ideas, these dips are sure to become your new favorites.
So grab your veggies, your crackers, or even just a spoon, and dive into the world of cold vegan dips—your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!
📖 Recipe Card: Creamy Avocado Herb Vegan Dip
Description: A refreshing and creamy cold vegan dip packed with fresh herbs and zesty lime. Perfect for veggies, chips, or as a spread for sandwiches.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut yogurt
- 1 small garlic clove
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Scoop avocado flesh into a food processor.
- Add cilantro, lime juice, coconut yogurt, and garlic.
- Sprinkle in salt, cumin, and black pepper.
- Add olive oil and blend until smooth.
- Stir in chopped chives.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and chill until ready to serve.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 | Protein: 2g | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 8g
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