3 Ingredients Vegan Parmesan

Discover this quick and easy 3-ingredient vegan parmesan recipe! Ready in just 5 minutes, this delicious nut-based topping enhances your pasta, salads, and more. Perfect for a dairy-free lifestyle!

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Why Choose Vegan Parmesan?

Vegan parmesan is a fantastic alternative for those who are lactose intolerant, following a vegan diet, or simply looking to reduce dairy intake. Traditional parmesan cheese can be high in fat and calories, while this plant-based version is lighter and packed with nutritional benefits. Here are a few reasons to incorporate vegan parmesan into your diet:

1. Nutritional Benefits: The primary ingredient in this recipe, nutritional yeast, is a powerhouse of vitamins, particularly B vitamins, and provides a cheesy flavor without the fat of dairy cheese.

2. Allergy-Friendly: This recipe is nut-free (if using sunflower seeds instead of walnuts), gluten-free, and vegan, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary restrictions.

3. Quick and Easy: With just three ingredients and a prep time of only 5 minutes, you can whip up this vegan parmesan in no time.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make this easy vegan parmesan, you'll need just three ingredients:

1. 1/2 cup Walnuts: Rich in healthy fats, walnuts add a nutty flavor and texture to your parmesan. You can also substitute them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.

2. 1/3 cup Nutritional Yeast: This key ingredient provides a cheesy flavor while being packed with protein and essential vitamins, making it a staple in vegan cooking.

3. 1 tsp Garlic Powder: Garlic powder adds a savory depth to the flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste of the parmesan.

4. Salt to Taste: Adjust the salt according to your preference for seasoning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a blender or food processor, add the walnuts, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. It’s important to use a high-speed blender or a good-quality food processor to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 2: Blend to Perfection

Pulse the mixture until it reaches a sandy texture. Be careful not to over-blend, as the walnuts can release their oils and become clumpy. You want a crumbly texture that resembles grated cheese.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

After blending, taste your vegan parmesan and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt or garlic powder according to your preference.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Sprinkle your freshly made vegan parmesan on top of pasta, salads, roasted vegetables, or any dish that needs a savory kick. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Creative Ways to Use Vegan Parmesan

This versatile vegan parmesan can be used in numerous ways. Here are some creative ideas to incorporate it into your meals:

1. Pasta Dishes: Sprinkle vegan parmesan over your favorite pasta dishes, whether it's a simple marinara or a rich, creamy sauce. It adds a delicious umami flavor.

2. Salads: Toss vegan parmesan onto salads for an extra layer of taste. It pairs well with both leafy greens and grain-based salads.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Before roasting vegetables, sprinkle some vegan parmesan on them. It will create a delightful, cheesy crust as they cook.

4. Popcorn: For a fun snack, sprinkle vegan parmesan on popcorn for a savory twist that everyone will love.

5. Soups: Add a sprinkle of this vegan cheese on top of soups to enhance the flavor and add texture.

Storage Tips

To keep your vegan parmesan fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to a week, but you can also freeze it for longer storage. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.

Nutritional Information

While the exact nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements, here’s a general breakdown:

• Calories: Approximately 60-80 calories per tablespoon

• Protein: Around 3-4 grams per tablespoon

• Fat: About 5-6 grams (mostly healthy fats from walnuts)

• Carbohydrates: Roughly 2 grams

Benefits of Each Ingredient

Walnuts

Walnuts are not only tasty but also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They provide a good source of protein, fiber, and various essential vitamins and minerals.

Nutritional Yeast

This ingredient is a staple in vegan cooking due to its cheesy flavor and nutrient content. Nutritional yeast is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, and is often fortified with vitamin B12, making it an excellent choice for those on a plant-based diet.

Garlic Powder

Garlic powder not only enhances flavor but also comes with numerous health benefits. It has antioxidant properties and can support immune health. Plus, it’s an easy way to add garlic flavor without the need for peeling and chopping fresh garlic.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan parmesan is simple, quick, and incredibly rewarding. With just three ingredients, you can create a versatile topping that enhances the flavor of your meals while adhering to a plant-based lifestyle. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this 3-ingredient vegan parmesan recipe is a must-try.

So why not give it a go? Whip up a batch today and discover the delicious ways you can use this tasty, homemade vegan parmesan in your cooking! Enjoy your meals with this healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional cheese.

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3 Ingredients Vegan Parmesan Recipe

Prep time: 2 min Total time: 5 min

Servings: yields around 3/4 cup once blended

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup walnuts

• 1/3 cup nutritional yeast

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: Add walnuts, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and salt to a blender or food processor.

2. Blend: Pulse the mixture until it reaches a sandy texture. Be careful not to blend too long to avoid clumping from the walnuts' moisture.

3. Serve: Sprinkle on top of pasta, salads, and various bowls for a savory flavor boost.

Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Enjoy your delicious vegan parmesan!

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