Effortless Raw Cashew Cheese Paired with Rosé

Creamy Raw Cashew Cheese & Rosé: Your Ultimate Plant-Based Summer Pairing

Discover how to make this incredibly creamy, flavorful raw cashew cheese, crafted with simple ingredients like cashews, lemon, garlic, and nutritional yeast. It’s the perfect vegan dip to serve with crisp veggies, savory crackers, fresh fruit, and an essential glass of refreshing Rosé for all your summer gatherings!

There’s something truly magical about summer, isn’t there? The longer days, the warmth, and the irresistible invitation to gather outdoors with loved ones. For my husband, Dan, and me, summer holds a special place in our hearts – it marks the anniversary of that wonderfully scorching hot day in July when we exchanged “I DOs” at a beautiful vineyard. It was a day filled with joy, love, and, of course, a celebratory glass of crisp Rosé.

Now, as the weather warms and winery lawns come alive with the buzz of picnics, playful puppies, and happy people, I’m often faced with a familiar challenge: finding delicious plant-based dining options. Vineyard menus, while often exquisite, typically offer slim pickings for those of us enjoying a vegan lifestyle. My solution? I always arrive prepared, mini-cooler in tow, brimming with an array of delectable plant-based snacks. From hearty trail mix to wholesome raw bars, or classic hummus and fresh veggies, these are perfect companions for my favorite glass of wine.

However, sometimes, a simple veggie dip just doesn’t quite hit the spot. There’s a particular craving that only the creamy, salty, and sharp taste of good cheese can satisfy when paired with a lovely glass of wine. That’s precisely where this Easy Raw Cashew Cheese steps in – the ultimate plant-based answer to all your summer entertaining needs! It’s not just a dip; it’s a revelation, offering a rich, savory experience that perfectly complements any summer festivity.

Crafted with just eight simple, wholesome ingredients, this cashew cheese is a game-changer. It’s the ideal companion for everything from casual picnics and vibrant parties to convenient, healthy snacking on the go. Its versatility and irresistible flavor make it an absolute must-have in your summer culinary repertoire.

Glass of 90+ Cellars Rosé wine on a rustic wooden surface, ready for a refreshing sip

The Art of Crafting Creamy Cashew Cheese at Home

If you’re new to the world of cashew-based cheeses, the concept might initially sound a bit unconventional. However, I promise you, once you taste this incredible creation, you’ll be utterly hooked. Raw cashews, when properly soaked and blended, transform into an astonishingly creamy and luxurious base that can mimic the texture and richness of traditional dairy cheese. This smooth canvas is then elevated with vibrant lemon juice, aromatic garlic, and generous amounts of nutritional yeast – the secret ingredient for that unmistakable savory, “cheesy” flavor.

While we are fortunate to live in a time where high-quality, gourmet nut-based cheese options are becoming more readily available in stores, they often come with a hefty price tag and can sometimes be challenging to locate. But what if you could whip up a crave-worthy, dairy-free cheese dip from the comfort of your own kitchen, practically for free? This recipe makes that a delicious reality. It’s a truly indulgent and satisfying treat that you can create using ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Let’s do a quick inventory. To make this sensational raw cashew cheese, you’ll need a heaping cup of raw cashews (the essential foundation!), a couple of tablespoons of nutritional yeast for that umami depth, fresh-squeezed lemon juice for bright tang, a hint of garlic powder, your favorite dried herbs (thyme or dill work beautifully), a pinch of Himalayan sea salt, a shake of freshly ground black pepper, and just a quarter cup of filtered water to achieve the perfect consistency. Check, check, check. Most of these are kitchen staples, right?

The only real “hard” part of this recipe, if you can even call it that, is remembering to soak your cashews in advance. This crucial step softens the nuts, making them incredibly easy to blend into a velvety smooth texture. But once that’s done, it’s smooth sailing – or rather, smooth blending – all the way to a perfectly creamy, irresistible cashew cheese. This simple preparation makes it an accessible and rewarding recipe for any home cook, regardless of their experience level with plant-based cooking.

Raw cashews, fresh lemon, cloves of garlic, and nutritional yeast, key ingredients for homemade vegan cheese

Rosé All The Way: The Quintessential Summer Sip

While my heart traditionally beats for robust red wines, the moment warm weather graces us, my allegiance swiftly shifts – it’s Rosé all the way, baby! There’s an undeniable charm and refreshing quality to a good Rosé that perfectly captures the essence of summer. It holds a special place in my wine journey, as it was the first wine I truly learned to appreciate as a “wine-newbie,” utterly captivated by its beautiful pink hue and delightfully mild, approachable flavor profile.

If you’ve ever had the pleasure (or perhaps the challenge!) of wine tasting with me, you’ll know that I can be a tad discerning, especially when it comes to lighter wines and whites. My palate has a particular preference, and with Rosé, I gravitate towards varieties that are dry and invigorating, without veering into overly sweet territory. It’s that crispness and subtle fruitiness that I seek, a balance that makes it incredibly enjoyable on a hot day.

My wonderful husband, Dan, often comes to my rescue, gracefully intercepting any overly sweet whites or dessert wines just moments before they might, shall we say, “meet the spit bucket.” His understanding of my preferences ensures that my wine experiences are always enjoyable and perfectly suited to my taste. Thanks, babe, for always knowing how to keep my Rosé journey on the right track!

The beauty of Rosé lies in its versatility and its ability to effortlessly complement a wide range of flavors, making it an ideal choice for summer meals and, as you’ll soon discover, this fantastic cashew cheese.

Hand dipping a cracker into a bowl of Easy Raw Cashew Cheese, with a glass of Rosé in the background

The Perfect Harmony: Pairing Cashew Cheese with Rosé

I am absolutely thrilled to introduce you to the 90+ Cellars Lot 33 Rosé, a wine that truly embodies that elusive perfect balance of dry and subtly sweet. This isn’t just any Rosé; it’s a classic southern French style wine from Languedoc, renowned for its dry, crisp character that makes it an exceptional partner for all your favorite summertime flavors.

For my fellow wine enthusiasts, this particular Rosé is a thoughtful blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, and Cinsault grapes. This carefully crafted blend results in a wine that is both flavorful and incredibly approachable. It offers a delightful sweetness, but never overpoweringly so, making it wonderfully refreshing. You’ll discover bright, inviting notes of fresh strawberry and juicy cherry dancing on your palate, creating a vibrant and cheerful experience that encapsulates the very best of summer.

This Rosé is more than just a drink; it’s the quintessential summertime companion. Whether you’re planning an idyllic picnic in the park, a relaxed day at the beach, a lively backyard cookout with friends, or simply seeking comfort and coolness in your air-conditioned home, this wine is perfectly suited for the occasion. Its refreshing profile and fruity undertones make it a fantastic match for lighter dishes, grilled vegetables, and, of course, our creamy Raw Cashew Cheese. The acidity and fruitiness of the wine cut through the richness of the cashew cheese, creating a harmonious and balanced tasting experience that will delight your senses.

Beautifully presented Easy Cashew Cheese in a bowl on a wooden board, surrounded by crackers and two glasses of Rosé wine

Creative Ways to Serve Your Easy Raw Cashew Cheese

One of the best things about this Easy Raw Cashew Cheese is its incredible versatility and ease of enjoyment. You can savor this fresh, undeniably addicting raw dip whenever the mood strikes for something both wholesome and utterly delicious. Its robust flavor and creamy texture make it a staple for any occasion, from casual snacking to elegant entertaining.

Planning ahead? No problem! This fantastic cashew cheese mixture stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a full week. This means you can whip up a batch in advance, ensuring you have a convenient and portable healthy snack ready to grab for busy weekdays or a delightful companion for your weekend adventures. Imagine taking this to a potluck or enjoying it as a quick, satisfying bite between tasks!

When it comes to serving, the possibilities are nearly endless. My personal favorite way to enjoy this creamy cashew spread is with a variety of dippers: crisp gluten-free crackers, an assortment of vibrant raw veggies like bell pepper strips, cucumber slices, or carrot sticks, and even slices of fresh fruit such as apples or pears, which offer a wonderful contrast. But don’t limit yourself to just dipping! This versatile spread is also phenomenal on a slice of toasted artisanal bread, adding a gourmet touch to your morning or afternoon snack. It makes a fantastic, flavorful addition to sandwiches or wraps, instantly upgrading your lunch. You can even dollop it onto salads for an extra layer of creamy goodness and a boost of plant-based protein.

If you’re looking for an impressive yet effortless appetizer, this raw cashew cheese is an absolute winner for a romantic date night, an intimate dinner party, or a fun-filled girls’ night in. To truly elevate the experience, try pairing it with the 90+ Cellars Lot 33 Rosé. The balanced dryness and fruity notes of the wine perfectly complement the rich, tangy flavors of the cashew cheese, creating a wonderfully harmonious and perfectly balanced treat that will impress your guests. Happy pairing!

Close-up of a hand reaching for a cracker to dip into Easy Cashew Cheese, with a blurred glass of Rosé wine in the background

Explore More Delicious Vegan Cheeses and Spreads

  • The Ultimate Vegan Cheese Board

  • Homemade Coconut Cream Cheese

  • Creamy Sweet Potato Nacho Cheese Sauce

  • Hearty Vegan Vegetable Lasagna with Tofu Ricotta

I Want to Hear From You! Share Your Creations

If you try your hand at this incredibly Easy Raw Cashew Cheese recipe, please don’t keep it a secret! I would absolutely love to hear about your experience.

Be sure to leave me a comment below, along with a rating and a review, so I can use your valuable feedback to continue creating even more delicious “yums” for you all. Your thoughts and suggestions truly help shape future recipes!

And if you share your culinary creations on social media, give me a shout on Instagram and make sure to use the hashtag #floraandvino. I adore seeing your interpretations of my recipes!

For more plant-based inspiration and to save recipes like this one for later, be sure to check out my Pinterest page. It’s a treasure trove of delicious ideas!

Love this post and eager for more delightful content? Head over to my homepage and subscribe to my newsletter to get the latest updates and recipes delivered directly to your inbox!

XO Lauren

Another shot of a hand dipping into Easy Cashew Cheese, perfectly paired with a glass of Rosé


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A small bowl of creamy raw cashew cheese with fresh herbs

Easy Raw Cashew Cheese & Rosé



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  • Author:
    Flora & Vino


  • Total Time:
    4 hours


  • Yield:
    ~1.5 cups


  • Diet:
    Vegan
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Description

This Raw Cashew Cheese recipe creates a luscious, dairy-free spread using soaked cashews, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and nutritional yeast for that authentic cheesy flavor. It’s perfect for serving as a healthy, flavorful dip with your favorite crisp vegetables, gourmet crackers, or fresh fruit, ideally alongside a glass of dry, refreshing Rosé wine. A truly versatile and delicious plant-based staple!


Ingredients

  • 1 heaping cup raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours (or overnight for best results), drained, and rinsed thoroughly
  • 2 TBSP nutritional yeast, essential for that cheesy flavor
  • 2 TBSP fresh squeezed lemon juice, for brightness and tang
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder (or 1 small clove fresh garlic, minced, if preferred)
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme or dill, for aromatic herb notes
  • pinch Himalayan sea salt, to enhance flavors
  • shake of freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup filtered water, adjust as needed for desired consistency

For serving suggestions

  • Crispy gluten-free crackers
  • An assortment of raw veggies (cucumber, carrots, bell peppers)
  • Fresh seasonal fruit (apples, pears, grapes)
  • A bottle of refreshing 90+ Cellars Rosé


Instructions

  1. Begin by soaking the cashews: Add the raw cashews to a clean container and cover them completely with filtered water. Cover the container and let it sit on your kitchen counter for a minimum of 2-4 hours. For an even creamier, smoother result, soaking them overnight (8-12 hours) in the refrigerator is highly recommended. Once soaked, drain the cashews thoroughly and rinse them under cold water.
  2. Prepare for blending: Transfer the soaked and rinsed cashews to a high-speed blender or a food processor. Add the nutritional yeast, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, Himalayan sea salt, dried herbs (thyme or dill), freshly ground black pepper, and the initial ¼ cup of filtered water.
  3. Blend to perfection: Start by pulsing the ingredients until they begin to form a coarse, wet meal. Stop and scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are incorporated evenly. Continue processing for 1-2 minutes, allowing the mixture to become incredibly smooth and thick. If the mixture is too thick or your blender is struggling, add an additional tablespoon of water at a time until you achieve a perfectly creamy, spreadable consistency.
  4. Season and chill: Taste the cashew cheese and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more lemon juice for extra brightness, or additional Himalayan sea salt and dried herbs to suit your personal preference. Once seasoned, scoop the mixture into an airtight container. For the best texture, refrigerate it overnight to allow the cashew cheese to firm up and for the flavors to fully meld and deepen.*
  5. Serve and enjoy: Serve the chilled cashew cheese with your choice of accompaniments: gluten-free crackers, a vibrant array of raw vegetables, and/or refreshing fresh fruit. Don’t forget to pair it with a delightful glass of crisp Rosé for a truly harmonious and enjoyable culinary experience!
  6. Storage: Store any leftover cashew cheese in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to one week. It’s perfect for meal prepping healthy snacks or appetizers throughout your week.

Notes

*While this cashew cheese can certainly be enjoyed immediately for a slightly softer, more dip-like consistency, I find that refrigerating it overnight allows it to firm up beautifully and develop a richer, more complex flavor profile, making it even more satisfying as a spread or firmer dip. It’s worth the wait!

This recipe for cashew cheese has been thoughtfully adapted from the wonderful The Full Helping, a fantastic resource for plant-based culinary inspiration.

  • Prep Time: 4 hours
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
  • Category: Dip, Spread, Snack, Vegan Cheese, Appetizer
  • Method: Blender, Food Processor, No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Plant-Based, Dairy-Free, Oil-Free, Gluten-Free, American

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This comprehensive post is proudly brought to you in partnership with 90+ Cellars, who provide exceptional wines perfect for any occasion. Please note that all opinions, words, and delicious eats shared here are entirely my own. I extend my sincere gratitude for supporting the sponsors that allow me to continue sharing my passion for plant-based recipes and keep me perpetually hungry for more culinary adventures!