This spread is a raw food recipe, and is similar to a cream cheese in consistency. It has a delicate herb and chive flavor, though you can always add additional herbs and chives for a stronger flavor if desired. This mixture is terrific to use as a spread or dip for raw veggies or breads and crackers. Also think of using it in other ways, though, such as for a thin base layer on a pizza crust, or to layer in lasagna or pasta shells in place of cheese. Recipe by Dreena Burton.
Directions for: Cashew-Chive Spread
Ingredients
1 cup raw cashews
3 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 small to medium clove garlic
cup chives (or the tender green portion of green onions), roughly chopped
1 Tbsp fresh dill (or 1/8 cup, packed, fresh basil) roughly chopped
tsp sea salt
freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 cup water
tsp extra-virgin olive oil
Directions
1. In a food processor, combine all ingredients, starting with 3 tbsp lemon juice and 1/3 cup water.
2. Process and scrape down the bowl several times, and continue until the spread is very smooth and thick.
3. Taste, and if you'd like a more lemony flavor, add an extra tbsp of lemon juice.
4. To thin the spread, add an extra 1-2 tbsp water and puree until thinned to desired consistency.
5. Spread on bagels, toasted breads, crackers, flatbreads, or use as a dip for veggies.
6. Note: Brazil nuts offer a nice substitution for a portion of the cashews. Try substituting about - cup of the raw cashews with raw brazil nuts.
7. Note: This mixture will thicken and become denser after it has refrigerated for a day or two, so you may want to consider that when adding water to thin.
See more: Appetizer, Nuts, Vegetarian, North American, Snack