Vegan Cilantro-Lime Crema
A rich, creamy, and tangy vegan crema made from blended cashews, fresh cilantro, and zesty lime juice. The perfect dairy-free topping for tacos, bowls, or salads, ready in minutes after a quick soak.
For 4 servings
Soak the cashews.
Place the raw cashews in a bowl and cover them with very hot water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to soften. If you're short on time, you can boil them for 10 minutes instead. Once softened, drain the cashews and rinse them well.
TIPProperly soaking the cashews is the key to achieving a silky-smooth, non-gritty texture.Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Add the soaked and drained cashews to a high-speed blender.
- Add the fresh water, cilantro, lime juice, garlic clove, and salt.
- Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides of the blender as needed.
- Continue blending until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
TIPIf the crema is too thick, add another tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.Taste, adjust, and serve.
Taste the crema and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more lime juice for tang or salt for flavor. Serve immediately as a topping for tacos, salads, or grain bowls. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the absolute smoothest texture, use a high-speed blender like a Vitamix or Blendtec.
- 2The crema will thicken as it chills in the refrigerator. Simply stir in a teaspoon of water before serving to loosen it up.
- 3Feel free to adjust the amount of cilantro and lime juice to match your taste preference.
- 4This crema is versatile! Use it as a salad dressing, a dip for vegetables, or a sauce for roasted potatoes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add half a jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the blender for a spicy kick.
healthyHealthy
For a lower-fat version, replace half of the cashews with an equal amount of silken tofu. You may need to reduce the water slightly.
quickQuick
If you're short on time, boil the cashews for 10 minutes instead of soaking them. This softens them quickly for blending.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Cashews are an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and support overall cardiovascular health.
Dairy-Free and Vegan
This crema is completely plant-based, making it a perfect creamy topping for those with lactose intolerance or following a vegan diet.
Rich in Antioxidants
Fresh cilantro and lime juice provide antioxidants like Vitamin C, which help protect the body against cellular damage.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a healthy choice made from whole-food ingredients. Cashews provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, plant-based protein, and essential minerals. It's a wonderful, nutrient-dense alternative to dairy-based sour cream.