Out of Non-dairy Parmesan cheese, one case
Non-dairy Parmesan cheese substitute
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Nutritional yeast
Same amount as the non-dairy Parmesan cheese
The best non-dairy parmesan cheese substitutes are nutritional yeast, cashew parmesan, store-bought vegan parmesan, and almond parmesan. Use 1:1 ratio for most recipes.
- Verdict —
- You'll taste it
- Best for —
- pasta
One casethe full Parmesan cheese card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of non-dairy Parmesan cheese | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nutritional yeastpasta | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 2 | Cashew Parmesanpasta | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Store-bought vegan Parmesanpasta | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Almond Parmesanpasta | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 5 | Sunflower seed Parmesanpasta | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Coconut Parmesanpasta | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
Nutritional yeast
different taste and texture
Deactivated yeast flakes with cheesy, umami flavor and golden color
- Best for
- pasta, soups, salads, popcorn, grain bowls, baking
Most accessible, budget-friendly, and widely available.
Cashew Parmesan
similar taste and texture
Blend of raw cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and salt
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, salads, soups, grain bowls, baking
Homemade blend, closest to real parmesan texture.
Store-bought vegan Parmesan
similar taste and texture
Commercial vegan parmesan made from nuts, nutritional yeast, or coconut
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, salads, soups, baking, cooking
Convenient option, check ingredients for allergens.
Almond Parmesan
different taste, similar texture
Blend of blanched almonds, nutritional yeast, and seasonings
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, salads, grain bowls, baking, cooking
Nutty flavor, higher in protein than cashew version.
Sunflower seed Parmesan
different taste, similar texture
Blend of sunflower seeds, nutritional yeast, and seasonings
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, salads, grain bowls, baking, cooking
Nut-free option, great for allergies.
Coconut Parmesan
different taste and texture
Blend of coconut flakes, nutritional yeast, and seasonings
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, salads, baking, grain bowls, cooking
Slightly sweet, tropical flavor.
How it behaves in this recipe
Non-dairy parmesan substitutes work because they provide similar umami flavor and golden color while being completely free of dairy products. The key is choosing alternatives that can be grated or sprinkled and that complement the dish's flavor profile without adding any dairy ingredients.
Tips for substituting non-dairy Parmesan cheese
8 tips- For cashew parmesan: Soak cashews for 2-4 hours for creamier texture
- Nutritional yeast works best when added at the end of cooking
- Store homemade non-dairy parmesan in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
- Freeze non-dairy parmesan for up to 3 months for longer storage
- For nut-free options, use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds
- Add a pinch of miso paste to enhance umami flavor
- Toast nuts or seeds before blending for deeper, nuttier flavor
- Use a food processor for best texture - pulse, don't over-blend
Notes on non-dairy Parmesan cheese
- Use pumpkin seed parmesan for seasonal variation
- Try hemp seed parmesan for omega-3 rich option
- Consider macadamia nut parmesan for richer flavor
- Use Brazil nut parmesan for selenium-rich alternative
Questions
6 questionsWhat is the best non-dairy substitute for parmesan cheese?
Nutritional yeast is the most accessible non-dairy parmesan substitute, while cashew parmesan provides the closest texture and flavor. Store-bought vegan parmesan is the most convenient option.
Can I use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese?
Yes, nutritional yeast is an excellent non-dairy substitute for parmesan cheese. It provides umami flavor and golden color, though it has a different texture. Use a 1:1 ratio and add at the end of cooking.
How do I make cashew parmesan?
Blend 1 cup raw cashews, 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon salt in a food processor until crumbly. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Is there a store-bought non-dairy parmesan cheese?
Yes, several brands make non-dairy parmesan cheese including Follow Your Heart, Violife, and Go Veggie. Check the ingredients for allergens and choose based on your dietary needs.
What about sunflower seed parmesan for nut allergies?
Sunflower seed parmesan is good for those with nut allergies. Blend 1 cup sunflower seeds, 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon salt for a nut-free alternative.
Can I use almond parmesan instead of cashew parmesan?
Yes, almond parmesan works well as a substitute for cashew parmesan. It has a nuttier flavor and higher protein content. Use the same ratio and preparation method.