Avocado-based vegan cheeses you should try
Avocados have become a staple in vegan diets, not just for their creamy texture but also for their versatility. They can be transformed into various dishes, including cheese alternatives that are both delicious and nutritious. This article explores five avocado-based vegan cheese alternatives that are easy to make and perfect for adding a creamy touch to your meals.
Creamy avocado spread
This simple yet flavorful spread is ideal for sandwiches or as a dip. Simply blend one ripe avocado with a tablespoon of lemon juice, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast until smooth. The nutritional yeast contributes a cheesy flavor, while the lemon juice enhances the avocado's freshness. It serves as an excellent source of vitamins B and E.
Avocado cashew cheese sauce
For those who love nachos or pasta, this sauce is a game-changer. Soak one cup of cashews overnight, then blend with one ripe avocado, nutritional yeast, garlic, and enough water to achieve a smooth consistency. This sauce combines the richness of cashews with the creaminess of avocados to create a deliciously healthy alternative to traditional cheese sauces.
Avocado ricotta-style cheese
To create a ricotta-style cheese from avocados, simply mash two ripe avocados. Then, mix them with lemon juice, salt, and freshly chopped basil leaves for an aromatic herby flavor. This combination yields a soft, spreadable cheese alternative. It's ideal for layering on toast or incorporating into your beloved pasta dishes, offering a unique twist on traditional flavors.
Zesty avocado feta crumble
For those salads or baked dishes that crave the tangy taste of feta, this avocado alternative is perfect. Simply mash one ripe avocado with lemon zest, apple cider vinegar, salt, and almond flour. Keep mixing until you achieve a crumbly texture akin to feta cheese. This not only adds flavor but also infuses your meals with healthy fats and protein, enhancing their nutritional value.
Sweet avocado cream cheese
Avocados can mimic cream cheese! Blend one ripe avocado with coconut cream, maple syrup for sweetness, lemon juice for tanginess, and vanilla extract until smooth. This version is ideal as frosting for cakes or spread on bagels. Avocado-based cheeses are versatile, satisfying, and nutrient-rich. They offer creamy or crumbly, sweet or savory options without compromising health or flavor.
