🥛 Dairy

Non - Dairy Parmesan Cheese Substitute - Complete Guide

Find the best non-dairy parmesan cheese substitutes for lactose-free and dairy-free cooking. Plant-based alternatives that work in any recipe.

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Quick Answer

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.

Best Substitutes

Nutritional Yeast

1:1

Deactivated yeast flakes with cheesy, umami flavor and golden color

Best for:

pastasoupssaladspopcorngrain bowlsbaking

Most accessible, budget-friendly, and widely available

Cashew Parmesan

1:1

Blend of raw cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and salt

Best for:

pastapizzasaladssoupsgrain bowlsbaking

Homemade blend, closest to real parmesan texture

Store-Bought Vegan Parmesan

1:1

Commercial vegan parmesan made from nuts, nutritional yeast, or coconut

Best for:

pastapizzasaladssoupsbakingcooking

Convenient option, check ingredients for allergens

Almond Parmesan

1:1

Blend of blanched almonds, nutritional yeast, and seasonings

Best for:

pastapizzasaladsgrain bowlsbakingcooking

Nutty flavor, higher in protein than cashew version

Sunflower Seed Parmesan

1:1

Blend of sunflower seeds, nutritional yeast, and seasonings

Best for:

pastapizzasaladsgrain bowlsbakingcooking

Nut-free option, great for allergies

Coconut Parmesan

1:1

Blend of coconut flakes, nutritional yeast, and seasonings

Best for:

pastapizzasaladsbakinggrain bowlscooking

Slightly sweet, tropical flavor

Cooking 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

Frequently Asked Questions

What 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 1/2 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 perfect for those with nut allergies. Blend 1 cup sunflower seeds, 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 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.

Summary

Find the best non-dairy parmesan cheese substitutes for lactose-free cooking. Nutritional yeast, cashew parmesan, and store-bought alternatives with recipes and tips.