Dairy free dip with caramelized onions delivers all the flavors and textures you crave in a dip. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dip comes together easily. It will become your go-to appetizer, great for a party or snack. It's proof that non-dairy can be just as delicious!
Meet the most party-licious dip 🎉 💛 👆🏼
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THE BEST DAIRY-FREE CHIP DIP
We have our fair share of dip recipes on this blog; Spinach Dip, Feta Dip, and Fried Pickle Dip but this dairy-free dip recipe is one of my favorites.
Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, lactose-free, or simply looking to cut back on dairy products, you will love this high-protein dip!
Made without cashews but using dairy-free cream cheese instead, this creamy nut-free dip is a must.
Do you want to know the secret 🤫 .... it lies in the caramelizing of the onions.
🫒 A FEW SNACK RECIPES TO TRY NEXT TIME
❤️ WHY THIS RECIPES WORK
Creamy + Salty
Caramelized Onions- elevate this dip to a whole new level.
Quick and Easy Preparation: There is no need for lengthy kitchen sessions. This dip comes together effortlessly, with the sautéed onions being the most time-consuming part.
Crowd Pleasing! Everyone loves a dip. It's a hit at parties, game nights, or even as a satisfying solo, late-night snack.
So Many Serving Options: Whether you enjoy crunchy tortilla chips, crisp vegetable sticks, or soft pita bread, this dairy-free onion dip is a versatile companion.
🥨 SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Tortilla chips.
On a platter with other dips such as hummus or spinach and artichoke.
With crisps or chips.
Sliced veggies such as cucumber, carrots, or cherry tomatoes.
With pretzels.
Wraps, tacos, or on a sandwich.
🥄 INGREDIENTS NEEDED AND SUBSTITUTIONS
DAIRY-FREE CREAM CHEESE: Such as Philadelphia Plant-Based Original Non-Dairy Spread or Angel Food Dairy-Free Cream Cheese.
ONIONS: Brown, or yellow onions.
OLIVE OIL: For frying those onions.
GARLIC POWDER: Leave this out if you don't love garlic.
SPRING ONIONS: Chives or green onions.
SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE
👩🏼🍳 STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Note: Please scroll to the full printable recipe card at the bottom for ingredient quantities and the method.
Sauté the Onions:
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely diced onions and garlic powder and sauté, then turn down the heat to keep cooking the onions until they become golden brown and caramelized. This process usually takes around 15-20 minutes. You could add a few teaspoons of water to deglaze the pan and remove any pieces of onions that are sticking. Patience is key here. You want the onions to be caramelized and tender. Once the onions are caramelized, allow them to cool slightly.
Prepare the Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine room temperature, dairy-free vegan cream cheese.
Add Caramelized Onions:
Gently fold the caramelized onions into the creamy base until evenly distributed. Add the spring onions.
Season:
Season the dip with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the caramelized onions add a natural sweetness, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Chill and Let the Flavors Develop:
For the best flavors (if time allows ), cover the dip and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
Serve and Enjoy:
Give the dip a final stir and transfer it to a serving bowl.
Serve with your favorite dairy-free dippables, such as tortilla chips, vegetable sticks, or pita bread.
Optional Garnish:
For an extra touch, consider garnishing the dip with a sprinkle of fresh chives or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
📝 TIPS AND TRICKS
Caramelizing Onions to Perfection: Caramelized onions can take your dip from good to outstanding. Be patient while sautéing them, allowing them to turn a rich golden brown to bring out their natural sweetness. The slow and low method is key to achieving the perfect caramelization.
Let It Chill: Most dips benefit from some time in the refrigerator. Allowing the flavors to meld and intensify during chilling. Plan ahead and prepare your dip a few hours before serving if you can.
Seasoning: Season your onions because they are the base of the dip and will bring out so much flavor.
❓ FAQS
Yes! It is naturally gluten-free and nut-free, making it a safe and delicious option for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. Just make sure that the snacks that you serve it with are gluten-free. The best option would be freshly sliced veggies.
Certainly! Feel free to double or triple the ingredients to accommodate a larger crowd.
The main difference between French onion dip and onion dip lies in the caramelization of onions. French onion dip specifically uses caramelized onions, creating a sweet and rich flavor, while generic onion dip may use raw or cooked onions without caramelization, resulting in a milder taste.
MAKE-AHEAD AND STORAGE
MAKE-AHEAD: Making dips in advance often enhances their flavors as they have time to meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
STORAGE: Stores in the fridge for 3-4 days.
FREEZING: You can freeze for up to two months, although once defrosted, the texture may be grainy.
Did you make this recipe? Let me know what you think by leaving a ★★★★★ star rating & comment below. It genuinely helps me & I really appreciate your support! Nikki 💚
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DAIRY FREE DIP WITH CARAMELIZED ONIONS
- Total Time: 10 min Prep Time
- Yield: 1.5 cups 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Dairy free dip with caramelized onions delivers all the flavors and textures you crave in a dip. With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dip comes together easily. It will become your go-to appetizer, great for a party or snack. It's proof that non-dairy can be just as delicious!
Ingredients
1 tub dairy-free cream cheese at room temperature (7 to 8 ounces)
1 large onion diced ( 150-170g or about 6 ounces)
½ teaspoon garlic powder (or more depending on your love of garlic)
2 tablespoons olive oil
pinch of salt and pepper
2-3 tablespoons spring onions (green onions or chives)
Serving suggestion:
Potato chips
Instructions
- Sauté the Onions: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely diced onions and garlic powder and sauté, then turn down the heat to keep cooking the onions until they become golden brown and caramelized. This process usually takes around 15-20 minutes. You could add a few teaspoons of water to deglaze the pan and remove any pieces of onions that are sticking. Patience is key here.
- You want the onions to be caramelized and tender. Once the onions are caramelized, allow them to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Base:In a mixing bowl, combine room temperature, dairy-free vegan cream cheese.
- Add Caramelized Onions: Gently fold the caramelized onions into the creamy base until evenly distributed. Add the spring onions.
- Season: Season the dip with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the caramelized onions add a natural sweetness, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Chill and Let the Flavors Develop: For the best flavors (recommend if time allows), cover the dip and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Serve and Enjoy: Give the dip a final stir and transfer it to a serving bowl. Serve with your favorite dairy-free dippables, such as tortilla chips, vegetable sticks, or pita bread.
- Optional Garnish: For an extra touch, consider garnishing the dip with a sprinkle of fresh chives or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Notes
Caramelised onions can take your dip from good to outstanding. Be patient while sauteing them, allowing them to turn a rich golden brown to bring out their natural sweetness. The slow and low method is key to achieving the perfect caramelisation.
Room temperature cream cheese is easier and softer to mix.
Allow the dip to chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours, and you'll be rewarded with intensified flavors. The wait is worth it!
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nikki says
Let me know if you have any questions. Nikki