This is a bit of a departure from the normal recipe but I got such an overwhelming positive response from this that I had to share it. If you or a family member is sensitive or has allergies to dairy this is a great alternative to it. You can use it as a spread or arrange it like I have here in the recipe. It presents beautifully so would be great for guests or for a holiday gathering. Put this recipe in your hat for such an occasion. Cashews are high in healthy fats but also possess a calming side effect when eaten. Dried herbs can be used in this but fresh are more potent and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews (preferably soaked in water for 2-4 hours, then drained ahead of time but not critical)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- black pepper, to taste
- ½ tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- ½ teaspoon chopped fresh oregano
- ¼ teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
- pine nuts for garnish
For assembling:
- 2-4 tbsp of pesto (homemade is great but pre-made works too)
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes
Directions:
- Add cashews to a food processor along with the, lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of water, white wine vinegar, garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Process for 3-4 minutes or until you have a very smooth creamy consistency.
- Transfer the cashew cream to a bowl and stir in the chopped basil, oregano, and thyme.
- Line a ramekin or a small bowl with enough plastic wrap to fold over and seal the top.
- Fill 3/4 of the way with cashew cheese mixture. Add layer of pesto, then sun dried tomatoes, then top with a final layer of cashew mix. Wrap bottom so that it’s flat and refrigerate for several hours.
- Once refrigerated, unwrap the cashew cheese, transfer upside down on a serving platter, and garnish with sea salt, black pepper, pine nuts and a drizzle of olive oil.
If you’re the type you could skip all this and add Cashew mixture to a colander lined with cheese cloth and set on top of a bowl. Refrigerate overnight and serve. This will draw out some of the moisture and create a more condensed cheese.
Thank you for allowing me to share my crazy ideas with you!