Vegan Curried Pumpkin Cheese Sauce

Whether you have food sensitivities and allergies, or you are a foodie, lover of nuts or a pumpkin-on-everything aficionado, this amped-up creamy vegan sauce is sure to satisfy. It’s important to note, however, that this isn’t a substitute for conventional dairy cheese. Instead, consider it a delicious and healthy alternative to your favorite fall dips.

Cashew cheese dip or sauce is not a new concept. But the addition of pumpkin, along with warm Indian spices that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, elevates the original recipe to a whole other level. I love using cashews because they lend a creamy texture with a neutral taste. Feel free to try other nuts, though, as experimentation is part of the fun. While this recipe doesn’t include nutritional yeast, if you’d prefer a cheesier flavor, I suggest adding in one tablespoon of nutritional yeast at a time until you reach your desired flavor notes.

Not only is this autumn-inspired vegan cheese sauce incredibly quick and easy to prepare, but there are also endless ways to enjoy it; I prefer to serve it warm. Here are a few of my suggestions:

Sauce: Add more water to thin it out, then toss it over salads or pasta.

Spread: Serve it on top of toasted naan, sandwiches, crackers and more.

Dip: Serve it with vegetables, chips, pretzels or crackers.

Vegan Curried Pumpkin Cheese Sauce
Yield: 2 1/2 cups
Level: Easy

1 cup raw cashews, soaked for up to 4 hours, drained
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon sea salt
Water, to desired consistency (I used 1/4 cup)

Add all the ingredients to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth. Add more water if necessary. Best served warm.

Per serving (1/4 cup): Calories 54; Fat 4 g (Saturated 2 g); Sodium 227 mg; Carbohydrate 3 g; Fiber 1 g; Sugars 1 g; Protein 1 g

Min Kwon, MS, RD, is a registered dietitian who specializes in food sensitivities. She has a passion for translating the science of nutrition into real-life, applicable advice and tips. In her healthy food blog, The Adventures of MJ and Hungryman, she focuses on sharing simple yet healthy recipes made from wholesome, REAL foods.

from Healthy Eats – Food Network Healthy Living Blog http://ift.tt/1NzuGSM