Vegan Spinach Dip is a delicious and creamy dish that everyone can enjoy. This recipe combines healthy ingredients to create a tasty dip that is perfect for gatherings, parties, or a cozy night at home. It is packed with flavor, full of nutrients, and entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and those who prefer a healthier lifestyle. Whether you serve it with vegetables, chips, or crackers, this dip offers a wonderful burst of taste that will impress your guests.
Why make this recipe
There are several reasons to make Vegan Spinach Dip. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this treat in no time. It is also dairy-free, making it a perfect option for those with lactose intolerance or anyone following a plant-based diet. Additionally, this dip is high in protein and packed with vitamins thanks to the spinach and chickpeas. Making it yourself also allows you to customize the flavors according to your preferences. You can adjust the heat level or add more herbs and spices to suit your taste. Overall, this recipe is a simple way to enjoy a healthy snack or appetizer.
How to make Vegan Spinach Dip
Making Vegan Spinach Dip is a straightforward process. You will start by soaking cashews and sautéing onions. Then, you will blend all the ingredients together to create a smooth yet chunky dip. Finally, you bake it to achieve a crispy top. Follow these steps carefully to create a delightful spinach dip that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup cashews (soaked) (75 grams),
1 medium white onion (diced) (about 150 grams),
1/2 cup frozen spinach (measured after defrosting) (75 grams),
1/4 cup aquafaba (liquid from the chickpea can) (60 milliliters),
2 cups cooked or canned chickpeas (300 grams),
2–3 tablespoons nutritional yeast (15-25 grams),
1 tablespoon tahini (15 grams),
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (5 milliliters),
2–3 splashes hot sauce,
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder (5 grams),
2 teaspoons onion powder (6 grams),
1/4 teaspoon paprika (1 gram),
1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste) (6 grams),
pinch black pepper,
Chili powder (for garnish, optional),
Directions:
- Soak 1/2 cup cashews overnight or in boiling water for 20 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Over medium-high heat, sauté the diced onion in a splash of water or a dollop of oil for 5 minutes until translucent.
- Allow the frozen spinach to defrost or microwave on low for 30-second increments. Measure out 1/2 lightly packed cup of defrosted spinach, pressing out some of the water in the measuring cup.
- Add the soaked cashews, sautéed onion, and aquafaba to a high-speed blender and blend until creamy smooth.
- Add chickpeas, defrosted spinach, nutritional yeast, tahini, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, and spices (garlic and onion powder, paprika, sea salt, and pepper) to the blender. Using the tamper, blend for several pulses until the chickpeas are just creamy and slightly chunky. If you do not have a high-powered blender, pulse and scrape down the sides to distribute spices evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top of the dip is crispy. Sprinkle with a pinch of chili powder before serving.
How to serve Vegan Spinach Dip
Vegan Spinach Dip is highly versatile and can be served in many ways. It pairs well with fresh vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and celery sticks. You can also serve it alongside chips, pita bread, or crackers for an added crunch. For a fun presentation, consider serving the dip in a bread bowl made of sourdough. You can also garnish the dip with sliced green onions or fresh herbs for a pop of color.
How to store Vegan Spinach Dip
To store leftover Vegan Spinach Dip, let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. This dip can last for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for about 2 months. When you are ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to make Vegan Spinach Dip
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Vegan Spinach Dip turns out perfectly:
- Soak the cashews properly. This step is crucial for achieving a creamy texture. If you are short on time, you can use boiling water to speed up the soaking process.
- If you prefer a more textured dip, blend the chickpeas less until they are slightly chunky.
- Adjust the spices and seasonings to your liking. If you enjoy more heat, increase the amount of hot sauce.
- Feel free to add other ingredients, such as sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers, for additional flavor.
Variation (if any)
You can modify this recipe to create different versions of Vegan Spinach Dip. For instance, try adding some artichoke hearts for an artichoke and spinach dip. Alternatively, you can blend in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an herbal twist. Consider incorporating various spices, such as smoked paprika, to enhance the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Q1: Is Vegan Spinach Dip gluten-free?
A1: Yes, Vegan Spinach Dip is gluten-free as it does not contain gluten-containing ingredients.
Q2: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
A2: Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Just make sure to cook it down and drain any excess liquid before adding it to the dip.
Q3: Can I prepare this dip in advance?
A3: Yes, you can prepare the dip a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and bake it just before serving.
Q4: How can I make it spicier?
A4: To add more heat, include more hot sauce or add diced jalapeños when blending.
Q5: Is this dip high in calories?
A5: While it does contain calories, the ingredients used are healthy and nutrient-dense, making it a better choice than many traditional dips.
Nutritional Info (per serving, makes 6 servings)
Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fat: 6 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 1 g
Now you are ready to enjoy your Vegan Spinach Dip! This healthy, tasty dip is perfect for any occasion and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!