Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip – the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s always a hit at parties and potlucks! This creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dip is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for dipping your favorite crackers, chips, or veggies.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan spinach artichoke dip is:
- Rich and Creamy: We use a blend of cashews and plant-based milk for that irresistible creamy texture.
- Packed with Flavor: Artichoke hearts, spinach, and a blend of savory spices create a depth of flavor that will have you going back for more.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this impressive dip in no time.
- Healthier Indulgence: Enjoy all the flavors of the classic dip without the guilt! This vegan version is naturally dairy-free and cholesterol-free.
Vegan spinach artichoke dip ingredients arranged on a table
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cashews: Raw cashews are the base of our creamy dip. Soak them in hot water for at least 30 minutes to soften them up.
- Artichoke Hearts: Canned or jarred artichoke hearts work perfectly. Drain them well and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a boost of nutrients and a vibrant green color.
- Nutritional Yeast: This cheesy superhero adds a savory, cheesy flavor that mimics the real deal.
- Lemon Juice: A touch of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors of the dip.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a fragrant and savory note.
- Spices: We use a simple blend of salt, black pepper, and onion powder for well-balanced flavor.
How to Make Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, sauté minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant.
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Wilt the Spinach: Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted.
Sauteed garlic and spinach in a pan
- Blend the Cashews: Drain the soaked cashews and transfer them to a high-speed blender. Add water or unsweetened plant-based milk and blend until smooth and creamy.
Blending cashews for vegan dip
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Combine the Ingredients: Add the sauteed spinach and garlic mixture, chopped artichoke hearts, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and onion powder to the blender.
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Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
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Transfer and Bake: Pour the dip into a greased oven-safe dish.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake the dip for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and slightly golden brown on top.
Vegan spinach artichoke dip baking in the oven
- Serve and Enjoy! Let the dip cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes if desired.
Tips for the Best Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip
- Cashew Cream: Make sure to blend the cashews with enough liquid to create a very smooth and creamy consistency.
- Adjust the Thickness: If the dip seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water or plant-based milk at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Artichoke Variations: Feel free to use marinated artichoke hearts for an extra boost of flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a touch of heat.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the dip warm with tortilla chips, pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Vegan spinach artichoke dip served with crackers
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
Can I freeze this dip?
While this dip is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
What can I substitute for cashews?
You can try using sunflower seeds or white beans as a substitute for cashews. However, the flavor and texture of the dip might vary slightly.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, you can use thawed and squeezed dry frozen spinach in place of fresh spinach.
Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this dip in a slow cooker! Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until heated through.
