Raw Cashews
Simple, creamy raw cashews with a naturally buttery flavor and satisfying crunch. A perfect nutrient-dense snack on their own, or the ideal base for making homemade cashew milk, cashew cream, or dairy-free sauces. Packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~1 min
Inspect and sort the cashews.
Spread the raw cashews on a clean surface or plate. Pick through them and discard any that are shriveled, discolored, or show signs of mold. A quick visual check ensures every bite tastes fresh and creamy.
TIPStore cashews in the fridge or freezer to extend their shelf life—their high natural oil content makes them more prone to rancidity at room temperature. - serve
Serve as-is or transfer to an airtight container.
Enjoy immediately as a snack, or store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks. For longer shelf life, keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 months, or freeze for up to 6 months.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Buy raw cashews from a high-turnover store to ensure freshness and avoid rancid nuts.
- 2Store raw cashews in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve their creamy texture and prevent oil spoilage.
- 3For a quick doneness test, snap a cashew in half—it should be uniformly pale and break cleanly without any dark spots.
- 4If using cashews for cashew cream, soak them in hot water for 30 minutes to soften and blend into a silky smooth puree.
- 5Toast raw cashews in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, shaking often, to enhance their natural buttery flavor.
Adapt it for your goals.
Salted
Toss the raw cashews with 1-2 teaspoons of fine sea salt after toasting for a classic savory snack that enhances their natural flavor.
spicedSpiced
Mix the cashews with a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder before toasting for a warm, smoky kick.
sweetSweet
Lightly coat raw cashews with maple syrup and a dash of cinnamon, then bake at 300°F for 10 minutes for a crunchy, sweet treat.
curry roastedCurry-roasted
Toss cashews with curry powder, coconut oil, and a pinch of salt, then roast at 325°F for 12 minutes for an aromatic, Indian-inspired snack.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Heart-Healthy Fats
Cashews are packed with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health when consumed in moderation.
Good Source of Magnesium
These nuts provide magnesium, a mineral that helps regulate muscle function, nerve signals, and blood pressure.
Contains Plant-Based Iron
Cashews offer non-heme iron, which contributes to oxygen transport in the body and supports energy levels.
High in Antioxidants
Raw cashews contain antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols that help protect cells from oxidative stress.
Frequently asked questions
Store raw cashews in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for up to 3 months. Freezing extends shelf life to 6 months.
