If you’re craving a snack that’s irresistibly savory, creamy, and crowd-pleasing, Caramelized Onion Dip is exactly what you’re looking for. Imagine the aroma of sweet onions gently browning into golden perfection, folded into a luscious base of cashews and plant-based yogurt—the kind of dip that disappears fast at any party or family night in. This recipe is not only entirely plant-based, but also surprisingly easy to make, with a flavor that’s far richer than anything you’ll find on a supermarket shelf. Whether you’re serving a gathering or just indulging your own cravings, this Caramelized Onion Dip is bound to become your new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of everyday ingredients transform into a dip that’s rich, creamy, and endlessly scoopable. Each one brings its signature flair, blending together for maximum flavor, texture, and appeal.
- Olive oil: A rich foundation for perfectly caramelizing the onions, bringing out their natural sweetness.
- Sweet onions: The star of the show! Diced and browned, they provide the deep, complex flavor at the heart of this dip.
- Thick vegan yogurt: Creates a creamy, tangy backbone—Skyr-style oat milk yogurt works beautifully here.
- Cashews: Soaked and blended for a velvety, nutty richness that makes this dip so satisfying.
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the onions.
- Garlic: Just one clove muddles in bold flavor without overpowering the onions.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors—don’t be shy with the salt!
- Chives: For a pop of color and gentle bite, these fresh herbs finish the dip beautifully.
How to Make Caramelized Onion Dip
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced sweet onions and let them gently cook, stirring every so often. Be patient—they’ll need about 25 to 30 minutes to turn a rich, golden brown. If you see anything sticking, dial the heat back and add a splash of water. This is where the magic happens: the onions get sweeter and deeply flavorful, which is what gives Caramelized Onion Dip its signature taste. Once they’re deeply caramelized, set them aside to cool a bit.
Step 2: Blend the Creamy Base
While the onions are cooking, it’s time to build the creamy heart of this dip. Drain the soaked cashews and pop them into your blender, then add in the vegan yogurt, freshly squeezed lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and airy—you want this to be cloud-like! This luscious base is what makes Caramelized Onion Dip so addictive and perfect for dipping.
Step 3: Fold in the Onions and Chives
Transfer your creamy cashew-yogurt blend to a mixing bowl. Now, gently fold in the caramelized onions, making sure every bite is loaded with sweet, savory goodness. Sprinkle in the diced chives and give it all one last stir. At this point, your Caramelized Onion Dip is ready to taste, and the anticipation will be tough to resist!
Step 4: Chill and Serve
You can serve the dip right away, but if you have a little patience, pop it in the fridge for a few hours. Letting it chill allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together and the texture to thicken even more. Caramelized Onion Dip is delicious both ways—fresh and silky, or extra thick and cool from the fridge.
How to Serve Caramelized Onion Dip
Garnishes
The finishing touches can elevate this dip to the next level. A sprinkle of extra chives on top adds freshness and color. For a bit of crunch, try toasted pine nuts or a handful of fried shallots just before serving. A small drizzle of olive oil never hurts, either—visually stunning and delicious.
Side Dishes
Caramelized Onion Dip plays well with all sorts of sides. Think crunchy crudités like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Classic potato chips and snappy pretzels are always a hit for extra indulgence. Crackers, breadsticks, or even pita chips are fantastic for scooping up every last bit.
Creative Ways to Present
This dip doesn’t have to hide as a wallflower at parties! Try serving Caramelized Onion Dip in a rustic bread bowl for real wow-factor. Pipe dollops onto cucumber rounds as elegant appetizers, or swirl a spoonful into a baked potato. You can even use it as a spread for sandwiches or wraps—the options are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Caramelized Onion Dip keeps beautifully in the fridge. Just transfer it to an airtight container and it will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it ideal for prepping in advance or snacking throughout the week.
Freezing
While it’s possible to freeze this dip, the texture may change slightly once thawed due to the yogurt and cashew base. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container, and try to finish within one month for best flavor. Stir well after thawing to bring back creaminess.
Reheating
You’ll likely enjoy Caramelized Onion Dip cold or at room temperature, but if it thickens in the fridge or you prefer it a little warmer, just let it rest on your counter for 30 minutes or gently stir before serving. Avoid microwaving unless necessary, as it might alter the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of vegan yogurt?
Yes! If you’re not dairy-free, Greek yogurt or regular whole milk yogurt will work perfectly as a substitute for the vegan option, giving you just as much creaminess and tang.
Do I have to soak the cashews overnight?
Ideally, yes. Soaking the cashews overnight softens them for the smoothest, silkiest dip. In a pinch, you can quick-soak them in hot water for one hour, though the texture might not be quite as creamy.
Can I caramelize the onions ahead of time?
Absolutely. Save time on the day of serving by caramelizing the onions up to three days in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the dip.
How can I make the dip gluten-free?
The Caramelized Onion Dip itself is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure any chips, crackers, or dippers you serve alongside are also gluten-free to keep everything safe for sensitive guests.
What if I don’t have a high-powered blender?
You can still make this dip with a standard blender or food processor. Just be sure to soak your cashews super well, and blend longer to achieve that magically creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying this Caramelized Onion Dip enough! It’s simple, hearty, and absolutely packed with irresistible flavor—a guaranteed hit whether you’re making it for friends or just treating yourself. Give it a go, and get ready to watch even the bowl get scraped clean!
Print
Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Caramelized Onion Dip is a creamy and flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings or parties. The sweet caramelized onions combined with the tangy vegan yogurt create a delicious dip that pairs well with chips or veggies.
Ingredients
Caramelized Onions:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 sweet onions, diced
Dip Base:
- 1 cup thick vegan yogurt (Icelandic Provisions Oatmilk Skyr recommended)
- 1 cup cashews, soaked overnight
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 clove garlic
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bunch chives, diced
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add diced onions, cook until deeply caramelized, about 25–30 minutes. Set aside.
- Prepare Dip Base: Blend soaked cashews, vegan yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer base to a bowl, fold in caramelized onions, add diced chives, and mix well.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for a few hours to enhance flavors.
Notes
- For a smoother dip, blend the caramelized onions into the base
- Adjust salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing, Blending
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
