This vegan cilantro lime dressing is deliciously creamy, made with soaked cashews for a smooth, dairy-free base. This rich and tangy dressing is perfect for salads, tacos, rice bowls, and roasted veggies!
I love having a go-to dressing like this in the fridge because it instantly upgrades even the simplest meals. Toss it with a basic salad, drizzle it over roasted vegetables, or spoon it onto tacos, and suddenly everything has a lot more flavor.
This cilantro lime dressing is completely dairy-free, but you’d never guess it. The soaked cashews blend into a silky, creamy base that gives the dressing richness without needing mayo or yogurt. The lime juice adds brightness, while the cilantro and cumin bring a fresh, slightly smoky flavor that keeps you coming back for another bite. If you enjoy this recipe, try my vegan herb dressing, too!
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Cashews: Cashews create the creamy base of this dressing. Be sure to soak them in boiling water for about 15 minutes so they blend smoothly. Raw cashews are ideal, but roasted work fine too.
- Lime juice: Fresh lime juice gives this dressing its bright, tangy flavor. You can substitute lemon juice if that’s what you have, but lime pairs especially well with the cilantro.
- Salt, onion powder, garlic powder: These simple seasonings build flavor without overpowering the fresh herbs.
- Cumin: Cumin adds a subtle warmth and depth that makes this dressing especially delicious on tacos or grain bowls.
- Maple syrup: A small amount of maple syrup balances the acidity. You can swap in honey if you’re not making this vegan.
- Fresh cilantro: Cilantro gives this dressing its bold flavor. If you’re not a cilantro fan, you could try parsley or a mix of herbs for a different twist.
How to Quickly Soak Cashews
To soften the cashews quickly, bring about 2 cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat, add the cashews, and cover. Let them sit for 15 minutes, then drain. This helps ensure a smooth, creamy texture when blended.
Tips for the Best Dressing
- Use a high-speed blender for the smoothest texture. I have a Vitamix which is quite powerful. If you don’t have a strong blender, you may want to soak the cashews overnight to make them easier to blend.
- Don’t skip soaking the cashews. This makes a huge difference in the texture of the dressing.
- Taste and adjust! Add more lime juice for brightness or salt for more flavor.
- For the best taste, let it chill for 30–60 minutes to let the flavors develop.
Storage Tips
Store this dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It may thicken slightly or separate, so just give it a stir or shake before serving.
If you’re looking for some recipes to pair with this dressing, try these sweet potato and black bean tacos, quinoa tacos, or vegetarian burritos!
PrintDescription
This vegan cilantro lime dressing comes together in minutes with simple ingredients and adds a delicious flavor to salads, tacos, and roasted veggies.
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in boiling water for 15 minutes)
- 1/2 cup water, plus more as needed
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro, large stems removed
- Soak the cashews in boiling water for 15 minutes, then drain.
- Add all ingredients to a blender.
- Blend on low speed until combined.
- Scrape down the sides, then blend on high until smooth and creamy.
- Add additional water, one tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach desired consistency.