This Creamy Vegan Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a delicious and satisfying appetizer that’s perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply enjoying as a snack. Packed with flavor and creamy goodness, this dip is sure to be a hit with both vegans and non-vegans alike. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
For the Dip:
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 4 cups of fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup of raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes
- 1/2 cup of unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk)
- 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional)
For Serving:
- Tortilla chips, crackers, or sliced baguette
- Fresh vegetable sticks (such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Base
- Drain and rinse the soaked cashews.
- In a high-speed blender, combine the cashews, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
- Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adding more milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.
Step 3: Combine and Heat the Dip
- Pour the creamy cashew mixture into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the dip is heated through and thickened.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the hot spinach and artichoke dip to a serving bowl.
- Serve immediately with tortilla chips, crackers, sliced baguette, and fresh vegetable sticks.
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Creaminess: Add 1/4 cup of vegan mayonnaise for an even creamier texture.
- Different Greens: Substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
This Creamy Vegan Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a perfect appetizer for any occasion. Enjoy the rich and satisfying flavors with your favorite dippers and share this delightful dish with friends and family. Happy cooking!
