This vegan avocado crema is bright and creamy with a hint of spicy, and it's super easy to make! Use it on pasta, tacos, quesadillas and veggie burgers. Plus it's suitable for vegans and nut allergy sufferers.
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Avocado Crema Vs. Guacamole
You may be wondering what the difference is between avocado crema and guacamole.
Guacamole is a much thicker dip that's made with only avocados, lime juice and a few spices. Avocado crema, on the other hand, is more like a sauce or a dressing; it's creamy, and not nearly chunky as guacamole.
Non vegan versions of avocado crema use cream as a base, typically sour cream. This vegan recipe uses sunflower seeds. You'll be surprised at how rich and creamy they make it!
Creamy, heart-healthy avocado blends with zesty lemon and spicy basil to make a vibrant, fresh sauce. I've made this recipe using sunflower seeds in place of the traditionally used pine nuts, so it's also suitable for nut allergy sufferers.
The piquant, zesty nature of avocado pesto make it the perfect dip for crudites or seeded crackers. Spread it on dark rye bread and top with radishes and pickled onions for a taste sensation. Or, use it as a topping for my Ultimate Vegan Tostadas. The possibilities are endless!
Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
✅It's dairy free.
✅It's nut free, so suitable for nut allergy sufferers.
✅It's the perfect topping for many things!
✅It's vegan.
✅It's heart healthy
Ingredients
- Avocado: Of course! Make sure your avocados are ripe for the creamiest crema possible. It should yield to gentle, but firm pressure. It will feel slightly soft, but not mushy.
- Basil: Basil is a key ingredient here. It's subtly sweet, yet peppery flavor gives vegan avocado crema its oomph. I like basil so much that I buy plants and keep them on my windowsill all year round.
- Sunflower Seeds: Soaking them beforehand will ensure that your avocado sauce is as creamy as possible (see the recipe below for instructions.)
- Lemon: Lemon is avocado's favorite sidekick - the acid keeps the its flesh from turning brown. Plus, lemon's zesty taste contribution can't be underestimated!
- Garlic: Garlic stretches all the other flavors.
- Chili Pepper Flakes: Adds a nice pop of heat. Adjust the amount depending on how much heat you like. I've written the recipe so that the heat is a nice background note, but not too overwhelming. But, if you prefer a spicy avocado crema, feel free to add more!
- Olive Oil: Use an extra-virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Salt and Pepper: Seasoning your food properly magically transforms it. Don't skip it!
Method
- The first step is to soak the sunflower seeds in a small cup of boiling water. Soak them for about 10 minutes, while you get on with chopping the rest of your ingredients.
- Now, drain and rinse the sunflower seeds and put everything into a food processor and mix until a everything is blended and creamy.
- Add water a tablespoon at a time to thin to your desired consistency. If you want a salad dressing, add a bit more water than if you want to use this avocado crema as a spread or a dip. That's it. Now tuck in and enjoy!
Ways to Use Avocado Crema
Now that you've made your new favorite sauce, here's a few suggestions for creative ways to use it:
- Use it on tacos! Check out these vegan jackfruit tacos by Liv Vegan Strong
- Use it on my popular vegan black bean enchiladas.
- Swap out the guacamole in my jackfruit burger for avocado crema.
- Use it on nachos!
- Make my easy lentil chips and use it as a delicious dip.
- Use it as the perfect dressing for pasta.
- Add it to your next Vegan Charcuterie Board.
Did You Make This Recipe?
If so, I'd love to see it! Tag me on Instagram @thisdailydish. Or, leave me a comment below. It makes my day, and your feedback helps other readers!
Frequently Asked Questions
You should try to use it immediately, but it will stay fresh in the fridge for up to four hours. However, be aware that fresh avocado starts to turn brown the longer it's exposed to air.
Yes, you can! You can freeze it in an ice cube tray and pop out a few cubes to use when you're ready.
I'd suggest pine nuts if you aren't serving it to someone with a nut allergy
I don't recommend it. It's best when eaten immediately. It will keep in the fridge for up to four hours, but the avocado starts to oxidize, which makes it turn brown.
Craving More Easy Vegan Recipes?
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Sambal Oelek Chili Paste - An Authentic Recipe
Recipe
Vegan Avocado Crema
Ingredients
- 1 avocado
- 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
- 2 clove garlic minced
- 1 cup basil
- 1 lemon zest and juice
- â…“ cup olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon chilli pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Soak the sunflower seeds in a cup of boiled water for 10 minutes. Drain and rinse.
- Combine all the ingredients except the water in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
- Add water 1 tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
Notes
- You should try to use avocado crema immediately, but it will stay fresh in the fridge for up to four hours. However, be aware that fresh avocado starts to turn brown the longer it's exposed to air.
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