Easy Vegan Almond Ricotta Cheese Recipe for Healthy Snacks
As a vegan chef, one of my biggest passions is to create delicious and satisfying meals that are 100% plant-based. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating an incredible dish from scratch using only plant-based ingredients. I believe that vegan food can be just as tasty and satisfying as traditional meat-and-dairy-filled meals, and that’s why I’m excited to share this recipe for Vegan Almond Ricotta Cheese or Dip with you today.
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the taste of dairy cheese but wants to avoid animal products. It’s made with raw almonds, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and a few other simple ingredients that come together to create a thick, creamy, and oh-so-tasty vegan ricotta cheese. This almond ricotta tastes like the real deal and can be used in all sorts of ways – as a topping for pizza or pasta, as a filling for stuffed shells or ravioli, or simply as a dip for veggies or crackers.
Whether you’re fully committed to a plant-based lifestyle or just looking to include more vegan options in your diet, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, let’s get started on making some delicious almond ricotta cheese!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Dear reader,
I am beyond excited to share with you my vegan almond ricotta cheese or dip recipe. Trust me, folks, this recipe is a game-changer! There are several reasons why you will love this recipe, and here are just a few.
Firstly, it is dairy-free! That means no animal products were harmed in the making of this dish. The dairy industry contributes significantly to climate change and animal cruelty, so this is a great way to contribute positively to the planet and show compassion for all beings.
Secondly, the taste is out of this world! Even though it’s made from almonds, it tastes like you’re eating real ricotta cheese. It’s thick and creamy with a tangy flavor from the lemon juice and nutritional yeast.
Thirdly, the preparation time is only 5 minutes! With just a few simple ingredients and a powerful blender or food processor, you will have a delicious homemade ricotta cheese that can stand up to any store-bought alternative.
Finally, this recipe is versatile. You can use it as a spread on toast or crackers, top off your favorite pasta dish, or even use it as a dip for raw veggies. The possibilities are endless!
In conclusion, there are so many reasons why you will love this vegan almond ricotta cheese or dip recipe. Not only is it dairy-free, but it tastes like the real thing and is easy to make. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try and see for yourself!
Ingredient List
Let’s dive into the ingredient list! You’ll be pleased to know this recipe requires only a handful of simple ingredients that can be easily found at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw blanched slivered almonds
- ¾ cup water
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon salt*
- ¼ cup olive oil
*Note: If you’re using store-bought almond milk instead of homemade, adjust the salt amount accordingly given that store-bought almond milk has added salt.
The Recipe How-To
Let’s get started with making our delicious vegan almond ricotta cheese or dip! Here’s everything you need to know:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups raw almonds
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 3 fresh garlic cloves
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
Directions:
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Begin by blanching your almonds. Boil a pot of water and carefully add the almonds to the water for one minute. Drain and rinse the almonds under cold running water.
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In a food processor or blender, combine the blanched almonds, nutritional yeast, garlic cloves, lemon juice, olive oil, water, and salt.
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Blend everything together for about 5 minutes until it becomes thick and creamy.
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If the mixture is too thick, add more water a few tablespoons at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
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Once blended well, you can transfer the mixture to a container and allow it to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving as a dip.
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If you plan on using it as a spreadable cheese over crackers or bread then skip chilling process.
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Feel free to sprinkle some slivered almonds on top for an extra crunch.
Now it is ready to be served and enjoyed by everybody! You have got yourself an easy vegan recipe that tastes like the real deal – dairy-free ricotta cheese made from wholesome plant-based ingredients.
Substitutions and Variations
As with any recipe, there are always potential substitutions and variations that can be made to cater to different dietary preferences, tastes, and ingredient availability. Here are some suggestions for tweaking this vegan almond ricotta cheese or dip recipe:
– Instead of using fresh garlic cloves, you can use minced garlic or garlic powder.
– To make the cheese more savory, try adding dried herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme.
– If you don’t have nutritional yeast on hand, you can leave it out or use a sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese instead.
– For a tangier taste, use apple cider vinegar instead of lemon juice.
– Add a splash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for some extra heat.
– Use different nuts such as cashews or walnuts in place of almonds for a unique take on vegan cheese. Alternatively, try blending soaked sunflower seeds or chickpeas with the other ingredients for a protein-packed alternative.
– If you don’t have an extra-firm tofu block handy, try substituting it with store-bought vegan cream cheese for an even richer texture.
– Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of slivered almonds for a grain-free variation.
– Experiment with different liquids such as plant-based milk to vary the flavor and consistency of the cheese.
No matter what substitutions and variations you choose to make, this easy vegan almond ricotta recipe is sure to impress with its thick creamy texture and cheesy flavor!
Serving and Pairing
Now that the vegan almond ricotta cheese is ready, it’s time to think about how we can serve and pair it.
This versatile “cheese” works beautifully as a dip, spread or filling. You can whip it up in minutes to impress family and friends with its intense yet creamy flavor profile, making it a perfect party favorite for any occasion.
Consider serving this almond ricotta alongside freshly-chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers for a healthy and flavorful snack. Additionally, slathering it on crackers or crostini is a great option that adds some texture and crunch.
If you’re feeling adventurous, use the vegan almond ricotta as a filling for your next dish. Use it in place of traditional Ricotta cheese in lasagna or stuffed pasta shells to create a rich and satisfying dish that is both dairy-free and indulgent.
Pair this dairy-free alternative with wines like Pinot Noir or Sauvignon Blanc, which complement its nutty flavor perfectly without overpowering it. Alternatively, you can pair the almond ricotta with fresh green smoothies or cold-pressed juices to give yourself with an amazing snacking experience that’s nutritious and refreshing.
Trust me, this vegan almond ricotta cheese recipe is nothing short of culinary greatness!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious vegan almond ricotta cheese or dip, let’s talk about how to store it properly to keep it fresh for longer.
Making it ahead of time is a great option for those who want to have it ready and waiting in the fridge for when cravings kick in. To do so, simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s also possible to freeze the cheese for up to 3 months, but keep in mind that freezing may affect its texture and consistency.
When reheating, gently warm it over low heat on the stove or in the microwave for a few seconds until it reaches your desired temperature. However, be careful not to overheat it as this can make the cheese separate and become oily.
If you’re serving it as a dip and find that it has slightly thickened over time, feel free to stir in some extra almond milk or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Remember that this almond ricotta cheese is made with natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any preservatives, so consume it within the recommended timeframe. As always, follow proper hygiene and food safety practices when storing and preparing food.
Tips for Perfect Results
Making vegan almond ricotta cheese might be a bit intimidating at first, but with the right tips and tricks, you can achieve the perfect outcome. Here are some tips that will ensure your vegan almond ricotta cheese or dip turns out smooth, creamy and delicious every time.
1. Use blanched slivered almonds: Using blanched slivered almonds is highly recommended as it makes the process of creating almond ricotta cheese a lot easier with a smoother and creamier texture.
2. Soak the almonds overnight: Soaking the almonds overnight is crucial in this recipe as it helps soften them which will create a smoother texture when blended.
3. Invest in a high-quality blender or food processor: A high-speed blender or food processor is necessary to create a smooth consistency that’s similar to traditional ricotta cheese.
4. Don’t over-blend: Over-blending can result in an unappetizing grainy texture of your vegan almond ricotta cheese or dip.
5. Adjust the water according to desired consistency: Add water gradually in small increments and check the consistency often to avoid making it watery.
6. Let it rest: After blending, let your almond ricotta rest for an hour or so to set up and thicken before using or storing.
7. Store correctly: Store your almond ricotta cheese or dip in an airtight container properly sealed away from air and light in the fridge.
8. Use the right amount of salt and nutritional yeast: Don’t underestimate the importance of salt and nutritional yeast as they are responsible not only for adding flavor, but also for mimicking the taste of traditional ricotta cheese.
By following these tips, your vegan almond ricotta cheese or dip will have the perfect consistency, flavor, and mouthfeel that you are looking for. You can experiment with different variations and serve it with crackers, vegetables, pasta dishes, vegan lasagna, pizzas, paninis or wraps!
FAQ
Before we conclude this vegan almond ricotta recipe article, let’s take a moment to address some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about this delightful plant-based cheese. From substitutions to serving suggestions, I’m here to answer your queries and help you achieve perfect results every time. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a novice in the kitchen, these tips and tricks will surely come in handy. So, let’s get started with the FAQs!
What is vegan ricotta made of?
There are various options available to make dairy-free ricotta for those following a vegan diet. You can use ingredients like cashews, almonds, tofu, and coconut yogurt as a base for making vegan ricotta. Additionally, you can enhance the flavor of ricotta by adding nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs to the mixture.
What does almond milk ricotta taste like?
Almond milk ricotta cheese has completely surprised me with its incredible creaminess and flavor resemblance to traditional ricotta. Despite its dairy-free and vegan nature, it manages to capture the essence of this cheese with its subtle cheesiness and earthy notes.
What is dairy free ricotta made of?
Looking for a dairy-free alternative to whipped ricotta that’s just as soft and spreadable? Our recipe using almond milk and other plant-based ingredients creates a lighter, creamier consistency that’s perfect for slathering on crackers, toast, or crostini. With a touch of salt, rice starch, enzymes, tartaric acid, guar gum, and cultures, you won’t miss the dairy at all.
Does almond cheese taste like cheese?
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy cheese alternative, look no further than almond cheese. With only 60 calories per serving, 7 grams of protein, and no unhealthy fats, it’s a great addition to any meal. Not to mention, it has a similar taste and texture to regular cheese and is perfect for melting.
Bottom Line
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Now that you’ve read all about this phenomenal vegan almond ricotta cheese, you must be ready to try it out! I hope I’ve convinced you with my thorough description of the ingredients, recipe method, serving suggestions, and tips.
But before we part ways, let me leave you with one final thought. By choosing to make this dairy-free and plant-based almond ricotta cheese, you are taking a stand for animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and your own health. You’re demonstrating to yourself and those around you that vegan options can taste just as good – or even better – than their traditional counterparts.
Let’s face it: we all love cheese. And that’s okay. But now we have a way to enjoy the same taste and texture without contributing to cruelty or climate change. So go ahead, make this easy vegan almond ricotta cheese recipe today and see how it can transform your meals!
In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” And in my humble opinion, the same goes for our food choices. Let’s strive for greatness by choosing empathy over apathy, sustainability over indulgence, and health over convenience.
Thank you for reading this article and joining me on this journey towards conscious consumption. Let me know how your vegan almond ricotta cheese turns out in the comments below!
Vegan Almond Ricotta Cheese or Dip Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw almonds
- 2 fresh garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Soak almonds overnight and remove skins (optional).
- Puree all ingredients in food processor or blender for 5 to 10 minutes or until very, very smooth.
- Refrigerate til use.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.