5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe (2024)

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This homemadeplant-based parmesan cheeseis the ultimatedairy freealternativefor regular parmesan cheese. It is quick to make, savory, andcombines just a few simple ingredients, including roasted, salted cashew nutsand nutritional yeast. This grated “parmesan” recipe is Paleo, Whole30 compatibleand gluten free, and ready in 5 minutes!

5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe (1)

The best vegan parmesan cheese

This has been my go to dairy free parmesan cheese recipe for as long as I’ve been cutting back on dairy in my diet. While it’s definitely not the real deal, it does satisfy the same craving for a savory, umami rich topping on any dish that you would normally add parmesan cheese to!

If you’re interested in other dairy free “cheese” recipes, be sure to check out our recipes for Creamy Cashew Queso, Pumpkin Cashew Queso, Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe, and Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese.

Why you’ll love this dairy free parm

It is:

  • Savory
  • Super flavorful
  • Full of umami flavor
  • Easy to make
  • The perfect alternative to regular parmesan cheese
  • Made with 5 ingredients
  • Ready in less than 5 minutes
  • Great for meal prep
  • Tastes so good!
5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe (2)
5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe (3)

Ingredients and substitutions

You can make this healthy condiment with just a few simple pantry friendly ingredients that you probably already have on hand in your kitchen.

Here’s what you need

  • Roasted and salted cashews – In my opinon, roasted and salted cashews make the best vegan parmesan. The salty, nutty flavor lends itself perfectly to the savory nature of the recipe. If you don’t have any roasted cashews feel free to use raw cashews, and if you don’t have any salted cashews, simply increase the salt in the recipe to your preference.
  • Nutritional yeastNutritional yeast is a naturally occurring yeast that is the same type of yeast used to bake bread and brew beer. It’s also sometimes called Brewers yeast. A popular ingredient for many vegan recipes as it closely resembles the nutty, umami rich flavor of cheese.
  • Kosher salt – Just a small amount is needed if you’re using salted cashews. If you’re not using salted cashews, simply adjust the amount to your preference.
  • Garlic powder and onion powderGarlic powder and onion powder are added for more savory flavor.

Can you use something other than cashews for this parmesan cheese?

Yes, there are several alternatives you could use instead of cashews for this vegan parmesan cheese.

You could substitute:

  • Hemp hearts
  • Raw walnuts
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Pumpkin seeds

Use all in equal parts to the roasted and salted cashews.

5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe (4)
5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe (5)
5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe (6)
5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe (7)

How to make vegan parmesan cheese

This dairy free parmesan is actually super simple to make. All you need are the few ingredients listed above and a food processor. It can be ready in less than 5 minutes!

Here’s the step-by-step

  • Make vegan parmesan. Add all of the ingredients to your food processor and pulse together until coarse and crumbly, being careful not to over process. Taste and add a little more salt if desired.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

What can you use vegan parm for?

You can use this dairy free parmesan in any way that you would use regular parmesan cheese!

Serve it on:

  • Pizza
  • Pasta
  • Risotto
  • Salad

Is vegan parmesan cheese healthy?

Yes! This particular recipe for vegan parmesan cheese is super heathy. It’s gluten free, dairy free, and made with a combination of healthy fats and spices. Simple and good for you!

5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe (8)
5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe (9)

Did you love this vegan parmesan recipe? Try these other dairy free cheese recipes!

  • Creamy Cashew Queso
  • Pumpkin Cashew Queso
  • Vegan Cheese Sauce Recipe
  • Dairy Free Queso Fundido
  • Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese

If you enjoyed this recipe we’d love it if you would take 5 seconds to rate and review therecipe below.It’s also super helpful for other readers if you share any changes you made!Thank you for sharing your kitchen with NK! We’re so grateful you’re here.

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5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe (10)

5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe

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  • Author: Nyssa Tanner
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan
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Description

This homemade plant-based parmesan cheese is the ultimate dairy free alternative for regular parmesan cheese. It is quick to make, savory, and combines just a few simple ingredients, including roasted, salted cashew nuts and nutritional yeast. This grated “parmesan” recipe is Paleo, Whole30 compatible and gluten free, and ready in 5 minutes!

Instructions

  1. Make vegan parmesan. Add all ingredients to a food processor and pulse together until coarse and crumbly, being careful not to over process. Taste and add a little more salt if desired.
  2. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Notes

If you have a cashew allergy this recipe could easily be made with hemp heart, raw walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds instead.

Use on pizza, pasta, risotto, salad, or anywhere else you’d normally use parmesan cheese.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: condiment
  • Method: food processor
  • Cuisine: healthy

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ABOUT NYSSA

Hey there! I’m Nyssa (pronounced knee-sah) – The photographer, recipe developer, and creative behind Nyssa’s Kitchen – an online space where I share crazy delicious gluten free, paleo, Whole30, and vegan recipes for everyone at your table. I’m SO glad that you’re here! Nyssa’s Kitchen is all about easy-to-make recipes that are healthy, clean, and full of LIFE. Food bursting with character and flavor. AKA – never boring food. About Nyssa

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5-Ingredient Dairy-Free Parmesan Cheese Recipe (2024)

FAQs

What is a non-dairy substitute for parmesan? ›

Today's beautiful Cashew Nut Parmesan is another one to add to your arsenal of dairy-free deliciousness, and oh my is it a good one. This super simple dairy-free parmesan contains only 3 base ingredients, being cashews, nutritional yeast and salt.

What is dairy-free Parmesan cheese made of? ›

Filtered Water, Potato & Rice Starch, Food Starch-Modified (potato), Coconut Oil,Salt (Sea Salt), Rice Protein, Parmezan Flavor (vegan sources), Olive Extract, Beta Carotene (Color), Vitamin B12.

How to substitute nutritional yeast for parmesan cheese? ›

Sprinkle nutritional yeast on anything you'd normally top with parmesan, or add it to sauces, soups and dips. You usually need about half the amount of nutritional yeast as you would parmesan—just taste as you go.

What can be a substitute for parmesan cheese? ›

Asiago cheese, especially aged Asiago, is a great melting cheese and makes a good Parmesan substitute for classic Italian-American dishes. It's got a nice bite and toasty woodsiness, and those flavors get sharper the longer Asiago ages. This cow's milk cheese is widely available and reasonably priced.

Can you have Parmesan if you're dairy-free? ›

But here's the good news: there are some dairy foods that have very little or no lactose at all. Hard cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan, as well as matured cheeses like brie, camembert, and feta contain almost zero lactose because of how they're made.

Can you buy dairy free Parmesan cheese? ›

Indulge yourself, knowing that you've chosen a delicious, plant-based alternative that enhances every bite. Redefine your culinary adventures with our dairy-free cheese Grated Parmesan style, a versatile and wholesome addition to your favourite meal, ensuring a perfect blend of taste and texture — savour every moment.

How long does dairy Free Parmesan cheese last? ›

Vegan Parmesan cheese can usually last 1-3 months after the 'best-before' date if unopened and stored properly. Once opened, it tends to retain its quality for about 1-2 weeks if stored in the refrigerator. Homemade varieties should be consumed within 1 week for optimal freshness.

Is there Parmesan without rennet? ›

While Parmigiano Reggiano is not, it is possible to find vegetarian Parmesan cheese at the grocery store. If you want to avoid cheese made with rennet, look for cheeses labeled vegetarian or check the ingredient list for enzymes instead of rennet. You might just discover a new product to fall in love with.

Which nutritional yeast tastes most like cheese? ›

Organic Nooch Flakes
  • Rich in protein and B-vitamins, perfect for a plant-based diet.
  • Impressive cheesy flavor, ideal for vegan cooking.
  • Large 2lb pouch makes it an economical choice.
Jan 19, 2024

Can I leave nutritional yeast out of a recipe? ›

If for some reason you can't find nutritional yeast or can't use it, you can safely leave it out of recipes where it's used in small amounts as only a flavor enhancer; in some cases, miso or soy sauce can be used in a 1:3 ratio (1/3 of the amount of nooch called for), though both add sodium, so you may need to reduce ...

What is the Greek alternative to Parmesan cheese? ›

Kefalotyri. Kefalotyri, which means “head cheese,” is a salty cheese made with sheep's milk, goat's milk, or both. Resembling Pecorino Romano and Parmesan cheese, this dry cheese is sharp and spicy (and becomes more robust as it ages).

What is better than Parmesan cheese? ›

If you'd like a little more kick in flavor, you can enjoy some pecorino Romano as an alternative to Parmesan, but make sure to use pecorino carefully because the flavor is more intense and will make more of a statement.

Can you buy dairy-free parmesan cheese? ›

Indulge yourself, knowing that you've chosen a delicious, plant-based alternative that enhances every bite. Redefine your culinary adventures with our dairy-free cheese Grated Parmesan style, a versatile and wholesome addition to your favourite meal, ensuring a perfect blend of taste and texture — savour every moment.

Does grated parmesan cheese have dairy? ›

Parmesan cheese is traditionally made from cow's milk and is aged at least 12 months. Whole milk and naturally skimmed milk are combined and then distributed into copper vats for heating. During the two-step heating process, additional ingredients like whey and rennet are added to form the curd.

Is there a cheese that is non dairy? ›

Daiya is one of the early influencers of the vegan cheese movement. Founded in 2008, the brand unveiled a new, extra cheesy formula in 2023. Now made with Daiya's proprietary oat cream blend, the brand's shreds, blocks, and slices are tastier and achieve dairy-like meltability like never before.

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