Get ready to dive into the rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible world of our Cheesy Baked Olive Dip. This vegan-friendly delight blends the nutty flavours of cashews with the tangy zest of olives, all under a golden, cheesy crust that’s sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a special appetiser, or simply indulging in a cosy night in, this dip is the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Let’s walk through the simple steps to create this delectable dish.
Ingredients:
- 1¼ cup cashews, soaked until soft
- ⅓ cup Tony Ferguson Nutritional Yeast Flakes
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- 200ml coconut milk, cream, or regular plant milk
- Pinch of salt
- Harissa paste
- Olive tapenade paste
- Diced olives
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chilli oil, for serving
- Pine nuts
- Fresh dill
- Crackers, for serving
Method:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a high-speed blender, combine the softened cashews, Tony Ferguson Nutritional Yeast, cornstarch, coconut milk, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Pour the creamy cashew mixture into a baking dish. Dot the top with teaspoons of harissa paste and olive tapenade for added flavour and zest. Sprinkle the diced olives and pine nuts evenly over the surface.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling. The baking time might vary slightly based on your oven, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Drizzle with chilli oil for a slight kick and garnish with fresh dill to enhance the dip’s freshness and visual appeal. The chilli oil adds a vibrant contrast to the rich and creamy dip, while the dill provides a pop of colour and a hint of sharpness.
- Serve your Cheesy Baked Olive Dip warm, accompanied by a selection of crackers for dipping. This dip is best enjoyed freshly baked, making it the perfect centerpiece for your appetiser table.
This Cheesy Baked Olive Dip is not only a joy to make but also a delight to serve. Its combination of rich flavours and creamy texture makes it a sure hit for any occasion. Vegan or not, your guests are sure to appreciate the depth of flavour and the hearty, satisfying nature of this dip. So next time you’re in the mood for something uniquely delicious, remember this recipe – it’s a tasty way to bring everyone together!