Quick & Creamy Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip (Dairy-Free, Perfect for Any Occasion)

há 3 semanas

Inspired by: @iszy

Looking for an effortlessly delicious appetizer that's guaranteed to impress, even on short notice? This easy and creamy vegan spinach artichoke dip is your answer! Made primarily with a rich cashew cream base, it's a fantastic dairy-free option that's incredibly quick to prepare – perfect for last-minute gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a cozy night in.

Whether you're hosting an Easter brunch, a game day party, or just need a simple yet flavorful snack, this plant-based dip delivers. As one happy cook shared, "Your dip looks fab & the recipe sounds doable 😍👍", proving just how accessible this recipe is. Another commented, "Yes 🙌 Thank you 🙏 Looking forward to try it !!!", highlighting the excitement for its simplicity and deliciousness.

This recipe harnesses the delightful texture of canned artichokes, which, as iszy noted, are "fun texture to cut" and look "really nice out of the can." Pair them with vibrant spinach and a silky cashew cream, and you've got a dip that's both wholesome and utterly satisfying. Plus, it's easily adaptable – if you love a little kick like iszy, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes is a must!

Why You'll Love This Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip

Super Easy & Quick: Whip this up in minutes, ideal for busy schedules.
Dairy-Free & Vegan: A crowd-pleasing option for all dietary needs, thanks to the creamy cashew base.
Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or even a spread.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing affordable pantry staples like canned artichokes and cashews.
Deliciously Creamy: The cashew cream provides a luscious texture without any dairy.

What You'll Need

Equipment

High-speed blender or food processor
Mixing bowl
Baking dish (optional, for warm dip)

Ingredients

1 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for 15-30 minutes, then drained
½ cup water (plus more as needed for blending)
1 (14-ounce) can artichokes, drained and chopped
5-6 ounces fresh baby spinach (or 10 ounces frozen, thawed and squeezed dry)
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon Himalayan salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

How to Make It

This super quick recipe is perfect for last-minute party prep.

Prepare the Cashew Cream: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the soaked and drained cashews with ½ cup water, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Add an additional tablespoon of water at a time if needed to achieve a perfectly smooth consistency.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped artichokes and spinach. Pour the cashew cream mixture over the vegetables. Add the optional red pepper flakes if desired. Stir well to combine all ingredients until the artichokes and spinach are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Serve:
- For a cold dip: Serve immediately with your favorite dippers.
- For a warm dip: Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly golden on top. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until heated through.
Enjoy: Serve warm or cold with tortilla chips, pita bread, crackers, vegetable sticks, or crusty bread.

Creamy Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip, ready to be served.

Tips & Variations

Soak Cashews for Silkiness: Don't skip soaking the cashews! This step ensures an incredibly smooth and creamy base for your dip. If you're short on time, soak them in boiling water for 10 minutes.
Adjust Spice Level: For a mild dip, omit the red pepper flakes. For extra heat, increase the amount or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Enhance Flavor: A small amount of vegan cream cheese or grated vegan parmesan can be stirred in for an even richer taste.
Serving Suggestions: Beyond classic dippers, try serving this dip stuffed into bell peppers or mushrooms and baked, or as a flavorful spread in wraps and sandwiches.
Make Ahead: This dip can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. If serving warm, reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Trader Joe's Artichokes: As @iszy mentioned, Trader Joe's canned whole artichokes are a great, budget-friendly choice that offer a pleasant texture.

This easy recipe is a testament to how simple and delightful plant-based cooking can be. Many users on abillion have celebrated its ease and delicious outcome. As one commented, it was "super easy" and "looks so good!"

Ready to try this incredible dip? Whip up a batch for your next gathering and share your experience on abillion! We'd love to see your creations and hear how you customized this recipe.