Include in Print View:

Watercress Salad With Bean Cheese Dressing

Watercress Salad With Bean Cheese Dressing recipe image
This vibrant watercress salad is elevated by a rich, homemade bean and cashew cheese dressing that adds a surprising depth of flavor. The peppery bite of fresh watercress pairs beautifully with the creamy, savory notes of the blended beans and nuts. It&# 226;ÂÂs a satisfying, plant-based dish that feels luxurious yet simple to prepare. Perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish for summer dinners, or a healthy meal prep option. The dressing can be made ahead, allowing the flavors to meld, making this an easy yet impressive dish to serve any time of year.
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6
Calories: 18.7
Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegetarian
Description
This vibrant watercress salad is elevated by a rich, homemade bean and cashew cheese dressing that adds a surprising depth of flavor. The peppery bite of fresh watercress pairs beautifully with the creamy, savory notes of the blended beans and nuts. It&# 226;€™s a satisfying, plant-based dish that feels luxurious yet simple to prepare. Perfect for a light lunch, a refreshing side dish for summer dinners, or a healthy meal prep option. The dressing can be made ahead, allowing the flavors to meld, making this an easy yet impressive dish to serve any time of year.
Ingredients
  • 1 1/2 pound Fresh watercress (OR Spinach)
Directions
  1. 1
    Rinse the watercress thoroughly in cold water and spin dry or pat dry with paper towels.
  2. 2
    Place the drained watercress in a large salad bowl.
  3. 3
    In a blender, combine the beans, cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt.
  4. 4
    Blend the dressing ingredients on high speed until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
  5. 5
    Pour the bean cheese dressing over the watercress.
  6. 6
    Toss gently with tongs until the greens are evenly coated.
  7. 7
    Serve immediately while fresh.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 18.7kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.2g1%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 66.4mg3%
Total Carbohydrate 2.2g1%
Dietary Fiber 1.2g5%
Sugars 0.7g
Protein 3.9g8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

If using spinach instead of watercress, choose young, tender leaves for the best texture.

For the "bean cheese" dressing, white beans (like cannellini or navy beans) and soaked raw cashews are typically used to create a creamy, cheesy flavor profile without dairy.

This dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before using.

For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic or omit the nutritional yeast.

Keywords: watercress, salad, vegan, bean dressing, cashew cheese, plant based, healthy lunch, green salad, creamy dressing, easy dinner, peppery greens, dairy free, whole food, nutritional yeast, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, white beans
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/watercress-salad-with-bean-cheese-dressing-3/