Vegan Parmesan

Above photo of a glass jar filled with vegan parmesan being stirred by a wooden spoon

This Vegan Parmesan recipe is a game-changer if you’re looking for a dairy-free option that adds a touch of that much-loved flavor to your favorite dishes. The blend of nutritional yeast, cashews, onion flakes, and garlic granules creates a nutty, cheesy topping that is perfect for enhancing your favorite pasta, salad, or pizza with flavor and nutrition! This ratio of ingredients is the best I’ve come across after many trials of different vegan parmesans. It’s both simple to make and SO delicious.

Why This Recipe Works

Easy to make with just a few pantry ingredients.
Nutrient-dense: adds a touch of B vitamins, protein, and minerals.
Perfect dairy-free alternative for those on a plant-based diet.
Customizable with different nuts or seeds.
Long shelf life, keeps in a jar in the fridge for weeks.
Low sodium seasoning: a great way to add an umami flavor to dishes while keeping the sodium low.

Ingredient Notes

Ingredients for vegan parmesan in ramekins on a concrete surface

Cashews: Add a creamy texture and are a great source of healthy fats and magnesium.
Nutritional Yeast: Provides the cheesy flavor while being rich in B vitamins. It’s a key ingredient for that signature Parmesan taste.
Onion Flakes and Garlic Granules: These add depth to the Parmesan flavor.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Blend (or process in a food processor) the raw cashews, nutritional yeast, onion flakes, and garlic granules until the mixture is finely ground. Store in a glass jar in the fridge, and sprinkle over your favorite dishes to add a burst of flavor.

Close up photo of a glass jar filled with vegan parmesan being stirred by a wooden spoon

Variations and Tips

Experiment with seeds: Try using hemp seeds and sunflower seeds if you have nut allergies.
Vary the nuts: Mix in different nuts like Brazil nuts for selenium or almonds for a hint of sweetness.
Adjust the seasoning: More garlic for a bolder taste or a pinch of sea salt for enhanced flavor.
Keep it fresh: Store in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its freshness longer.
Usage ideas: Perfect on pasta, salads, soups, pizzas, or as a savory topping for baked potatoes.

Why You’ll Love This Hemp Seed Parmesan

Quick
Nutritious
Flavorful
Versatile
Plant-based

This Vegan Parmesan is a quick and nutritious alternative to traditional Parmesan, perfect for sprinkling over your favorite dishes. Made with a simple blend of cashews, nutritional yeast, and spices, it's a gorgeous way to add a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Ideal for those following a plant-based diet or anyone looking to add a nourishing twist to their meals.

Sarah Cobacho (plantbaes.com)

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Equipment

Servings 8

Ingredients

▢ ⅓ cup cashews
▢ ⅓ cup nutritional yeast
▢ 1 tsp onion flakes
▢ 1 tsp garlic granules

Instructions

Blend the cashews, nutritional yeast, onion flakes, and garlic granules until you reach in a powder consistency.
Store in a glass jar in the fridge, sprinkle on food when ready to eat.