There’s something about creamed spinach paired with something denser as the main course. Maybe it’s a textural contrast sort of thing, I’m not quite sure. However, this cashew take on the classic is surprisingly creamy, and a tinge more flavorful if I do say so myself! In fact, I don’t even miss its dairy counterpart!
To try for yourself, scroll below. In the meantime, here’s a fun quote:
“Popeye was right about spinach: dark green, leafy vegetables are the healthiest food on the planet. As whole foods go, they offer the most nutrition per calorie.” — Michael Greger
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Garlicky (Cashew) Creamed Spinach and Peas
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup raw cashews (with 1 cup boiling water)
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 2 tbs Nutritional yeast
- 1 Tbs freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 medium onions / 3-4 cups ish roughly diced
- 1 Tbs avocado oil or vegan butter
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 3 tbs garlic cloves, minced
- 1.25 cups peas
- 11 oz (about 9-10 cups) fresh baby spinach
- (Optional garnish) 1/4 cup fried shallots
Method:
- Soak the cashews with the boiling water and allow to soak for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge, with cold water to maintain optimal nutrients).
- When the cashews are ready, prepare the remainder by bringing a large skillet to medium heat and sautéing the onions in avocado oil for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, then add the garlic, spinach, thyme, nutmeg and sea salt. Cook for another 6-8 minutes or until the greens begin to wilt. Add the peas and give another stir.
- In the meantime, add the soaked cashews and its liquid into a high-speed blender. Add the lemon juice, nutritional yeast, sea salt and pepper, then blend until silky smooth.
- Transfer the cashew mixture into the skillet and stir with the greens until evenly combined.
- When ready, serve as is or transfer into a serving dish.
- Garnish with fried shallots and enjoy!
NOTE:
- It will thicken as it cools so don’t worry if it’s a little liquidy at first! All will make sense haha!
- For more delicious recipes to create or pair alongside, visit the Kitchen Journal.