Nut | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free

Cashew

Anacardium occidentale Allergens: Tree Nuts
cashew

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Anacardiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global, South Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round (harvested seasonally, widely available dried)
  • Source Cashew Tree

The Forktionary Angle

"The nut that does it all – from snacking to sauces."

Definition

A kidney-shaped tree nut prized for its buttery flavor, creamy texture, and versatility in sweet and savory dishes.

Sensory Profile

TasteButtery, Sweet, Mild, Creamy
TextureCrunchy (raw/roasted), Creamy (blended), Firm
AromaNutty, Earthy, Mildly Sweet
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Global Production (Top 3)

Vietnam, India, Côte d'Ivoire

Nutrient Density

Rich in copper, magnesium, zinc

Shelf Life (Airtight)

Up to 6 months (room temp), 1 year (refrigerated)

Nutrition Facts

Per 28g
Calories553 kcal
Total Fat43.8g
Saturated Fat7.8g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein18.2g
Total Carbohydrate30.2g
Dietary Fiber3.3g
Total Sugars5.9g
Calcium37mg
Iron6.7mg
Potassium660mg

Chef’s Secret

Soaking cashews overnight softens them, making them ideal for blending into creamy sauces, dips, and dairy-free alternatives.

Substitutions

Best Match

Almonds

1:1

Good all-around substitute for crunch and mild flavor, less creamy.

Macadamia Nuts

1:1

Excellent for creamy texture and rich, buttery flavor, more expensive.

Pistachios

1:1

Offers distinct color and flavor, good for baking and garnishing.

Sunflower Seeds

1:1

Nut-free alternative for crunch and a mild, earthy taste.

Buying Guide

Look for whole, unblemished cashews. Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer to prevent rancidity.

Flavor Pairings

Curries stir-fries salads desserts vegan cheeses nut butter.

Recipes Using Cashew

Vegan Mushrooms Vegetables Vegan

Cream Of Mushroom Soup

Indulge in this rich and decadent Creamy Vegan Mushroom Soup! Missing creamy soups since going vegan? This recipe delivers an unbelievably delicious, unique flavor profile that will impress even the most discerning palates. Made with cashew cream for a luxuriously smooth texture, it's the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. (Note: This recipe is not low-fat.)

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Low In Something Low In Something Salads Course

Apple Carrot Pineapple Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Apple Carrot Pineapple Salad recipe! This simple 5-minute recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy snack or side dish. Sweet apples, crunchy carrots, and juicy pineapple combine for a delicious tropical twist.

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Preparation Chicken Preparation Main Dish

Apricot Chicken With Cashews

Microwave your way to dinner with this unbelievably quick and easy Apricot Chicken with Cashews recipe! Inspired by Taste of Home, this dish is ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights. Sweet apricots and crunchy cashews complement tender chicken for a flavor explosion that's surprisingly sophisticated. Serve over fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Dietary Asian Vegetables Broccoli

Asian Chicken Broccoli Slaw

Craving vibrant, healthy takeout? This Asian Chicken Broccoli Slaw is a crowd-pleasing recipe that's ready in under 30 minutes! Inspired by a Family Fun magazine potluck recipe, this vibrant slaw boasts a medley of crunchy broccoli slaw, tender chicken, and colorful veggies tossed in a tangy peanut dressing. Perfect for satisfying your Asian food cravings and impressing even the pickiest eaters! The beautiful colors resemble a Mardi Gras parade – a feast for the eyes and the taste buds!

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Preparation Cuisine Course Vegetables

Asian Cucumber Slaw

This refreshing and light Asian Cucumber Slaw is perfect for a hot day! A vibrant mix of crisp cucumbers, carrots, red bell pepper, and onion tossed in a creamy sesame dressing and topped with crunchy cashews. This low-calorie recipe is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Inspired by a Harris Teeter grocery store recipe card.

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Asian 30 Minutes Or Less Vegetarian Preparation

Asparagus Black Bean Sauce Stir Fry

Craving that authentic Chinese restaurant taste? This Asparagus Black Bean Sauce Stir-Fry delivers! Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, this recipe recreates your favorite takeout dish in just 20 minutes. Tender asparagus spears meet a rich, savory black bean sauce, all perfectly balanced for a delightful culinary experience. Get ready for a restaurant-quality meal made right in your kitchen!

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Fruit Side Dishes Nuts Dietary

Asparagus And Cashew Stir Fry

This vibrant asparagus and cashew stir-fry is a quick and easy weeknight dinner side dish or light meal! The crunchy cashews and tender asparagus create a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Perfect alongside grilled fish, pork, chicken, or even as a standalone dish with added protein like chicken breast. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 15 minutes!

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30 Minutes Or Less Course Preparation Low Carb

Asparagus And Cashews

A family favorite passed down through generations! This quick and easy recipe transforms tender asparagus into a vibrant dish with a creamy cashew sauce. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the delightful combination of fresh asparagus, crunchy cashews, and zesty lemon.

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Dietary Occasion Main Ingredient Preparation

Asparagus Cashew Stir Fry

This vibrant Asparagus Cashew Stir-Fry is a delicious and healthy weeknight meal ready in under 15 minutes! Tender asparagus spears meet crunchy cashews in a savory sauce, all served over fluffy rice. A perfect blend of textures and flavors that will quickly become a family favorite. #asparagus #cashew #stirfry #weeknightdinner #easyrecipe #healthyrecipe #asianinspired

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Mexican Mexican North American Cuisine

Avocado Cashew Enchiladas

Creamy Avocado Cashew Enchiladas from Mollie Katzen's Enchanted Broccoli Forest! These rich and delicious enchiladas are bursting with healthy fats and protein. A vibrant, satisfying vegetarian meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to be amazed!

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Low Protein Low Fat 4 Hours Or Less Low Calorie

Baked Apples With Apricots And Cashews

A delightful autumn recipe! These baked apples are filled with a warm and comforting mixture of sweet apricots, crunchy cashews, and aromatic cinnamon. Perfectly spiced and tender, they're a delicious dessert or healthy snack. A family favorite, perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

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Vegetarian Vegetarian Course 3 Steps Or Less

Balsamic Cashew Pea Salad

This vibrant and refreshing Balsamic Cashew Pea Salad is the perfect picnic companion for summer! Light, sweet, and incredibly crunchy, this recipe (inspired by Trader Joe's!) skips the mayo for a lighter, healthier twist. Enjoy the tangy balsamic vinaigrette or substitute with your favorite balsamic vinegar for a customizable flavor experience. Get ready for a burst of summer in every bite!

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Time To Make Tropical Fruit Taste Mood Occasion

Banana Bread Mans Banana Bread

A Key West legend comes to your kitchen! This recipe, inspired by the infamous Banana Man himself, delivers the most decadent, moist, and flavorful banana bread you'll ever taste. Made with real butter, ripe bananas, and a hint of rum, this special treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up. Get ready to experience banana bread bliss!

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5 Ingredients Or Less Course Vegetarian Vegan

Banana Cashew Melt

Indulge in this ridiculously easy and delicious Banana Cashew Melt! Ready in 5 minutes, this simple treat is perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or dessert. Sweet bananas and creamy cashews combine for a naturally sweet and satisfying experience.

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Main Dish Presentation Seasonal Salmon

Barbecued Pesto Fish

Escape to the Mediterranean with this vibrant Barbecued Pesto Fish recipe! Simple, easy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual weekend gathering. Succulent fish fillets are slathered in a homemade pesto and grilled to perfection. Cooking time adjusts to your fish thickness, ensuring flaky, delicious results every time.

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Rice 15 Minutes Or Less Comfort Food Eggs Dairy

Basil Cashew Chicken Salad

A vibrant and flavorful chicken salad with a surprising twist! This recipe combines the deliciousness of basil and chicken, along with crunchy cashews, creating a creamy and satisfying sandwich filling ready in just 5 minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner!

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Dietary Preparation Free Of Something 15 Minutes Or Less

Spinach Cashew Salad

This light and flavorful Spinach Cashew Salad is the perfect low-fat meal or side dish! Packed with fresh spinach, crunchy cashews, and savory bacon, it's a delicious way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying salad without the guilt. We've carefully controlled the fat content, making it a guilt-free pleasure. The homemade poppy seed dressing adds the perfect touch of creamy deliciousness!

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Dietary 3 Steps Or Less Course Brown Bag

Vegan Vegetarian Mock Tuna

Craving a classic tuna salad sandwich but plant-based? This recipe recreates the nostalgic flavor of a beloved Connecticut-style mock tuna, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or light meal. Made with crunchy almonds and creamy cashews, this vegan delight is bursting with savory flavor and requires just 10 minutes of prep time! Enjoy it on toasted wheat bread with sweet pickles, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, or your favorite sandwich fixings.

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