National Cashew Day is the perfect moment to celebrate one of the most versatile plant-based ingredients in the world: the cashew nut. While many enjoy munching on roasted cashews as a snack, the real magic lies in how this creamy, mild-flavored nut can transform into plant-based dairy staples that elevate everyday cooking. From beverages to sauces to spreads, cashews prove that plant-based eating can be both wholesome and indulgent. Here are fifteen delicious and quick recipes that showcase their incredible range.

1. Cashew Milk

A creamy, dairy-free staple made by blending soaked cashews with water. Perfect for coffee, tea, smoothies, baking, cereal, and soups.

2. Cashew Butter

Blend roasted cashews until smooth. Great on toast, in smoothies, energy bites, cookies, or drizzled on pancakes.

3. Cashew Cheese

A tangy, spreadable vegan cheese created with cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon, and garlic. Use it as a dip, pizza topping, or sandwich spread.

4. Cashew White Sauce 

Blend cashews with garlic, onion powder, and nutritional yeast for a rich sauce ideal for pasta, lasagna, and baked vegetables.

5. Cashew Curd 

Ferment blended cashews with a vegan starter for a creamy, probiotic-rich yogurt perfect for parfaits, raita, or curries.

6. Cashew Cream (Sweet or Savory)

Blend cashews with water for a universal cream.
Use it for: soups, curries, mashed potatoes, desserts, and fruit bowls.

7. Cashew Sour Cream

A tangy topping made with lemon, vinegar, and cashews.
Use it for: tacos, nachos, chili, and wraps.

8. Cashew Pesto

Swap pine nuts for cashews and blend with basil, garlic, and nutritional yeast.
Use it for: pasta, sandwiches, bruschetta, or salads.

9. Cashew Mayo

A wholesome spread made by blending cashews with lemon juice, mustard, and vinegar.
Use it for: sandwiches, dressings, and coleslaw.

10. Cashew Kheer

Blend cashews into a creamy base and simmer with cardamom, saffron, and jaggery.
A luxurious, dairy-free Indian dessert.

11. Cashew Lassi

Blend cashew curd with water, cardamom, and sweetener (or mango). Refreshing and cooling.

12. Cashew Gravy 

A classic thickening base in Indian cuisine.
Use it for: koftas, masalas, and creamy curries.

13. Cashew Ice Cream

Blend cashews with coconut milk and sweetener, then freeze or churn.
Rich, smooth, and completely dairy-free.

14. Cashew Energy Balls

Pulse cashews with dates and cocoa for a quick snack.
Perfect for kids, workouts, or travel.

15. Cashew “Paneer” (Cashew-Tofu Blend)

Blend cashews with tofu and lemon juice, then press and cube.
A soft, creamy, protein-rich alternative for Indian dishes.

From sauces to sweets, yogurt to butter, the humble cashew is a powerhouse of plant-based creativity. This National Cashew Day, celebrate by experimenting with these recipes and discovering just how beautifully one simple nut can elevate your cooking.