Vegan Cashew Salad Dressing Recipe

This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Imagine a velvety, ultra-creamy dressing with the perfect balance of tangy Dijon mustard, zesty lemon, and a hint of garlic. This Creamy Cashew Dijon Dressing isn’t just a salad topper—it’s a game-changer for grain bowls, roasted veggies, sandwiches, and more. With a luxuriously smooth texture and deep, savory flavor, it’s the perfect dairy-free alternative to classic creamy dressings!

Ingredients

✅ ½ cup raw cashews, soaked (see tip below)
✅ ¼ cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
✅ 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
✅ 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
✅ 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
✅ 1 small garlic clove, minced
✅ ½ tsp maple syrup (for balance)
✅ Salt & black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Soften the Cashews

1️⃣ If you haven’t already, soak cashews in hot water for 10–15 minutes (or in cold water for 4 hours) to soften. Drain before using.

Step 2: Blend Until Creamy

1️⃣ Add the soaked cashews, water, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and maple syrup to a high-speed blender.
2️⃣ Blend on high until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed.
3️⃣ Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or an extra splash of lemon juice for more brightness.

Step 3: Serve & Enjoy

1️⃣ Drizzle over salads, grain bowls, roasted veggies, or use as a dip.
2️⃣ Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Tips for the Best Creamy Cashew Dijon Dressing

🥜 No time to soak cashews? – Boil them for 10 minutes for a quick softening method.
🔥 Want a spicy kick? – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
🌿 Herbaceous Twist? – Blend in fresh basil or dill for extra flavor.
💧 Too thick? – Thin with a little water or dairy-free milk.

This Creamy Cashew Dijon Dressing is lusciously smooth, rich, and full of bold flavor—a must-try dressing that takes any dish to the next level!