The Best Vegan Roasted Tomato and Basil Dip

If you’re looking for a dip packed with flavour and perfect for any occasion, then you’ll want to try this recipe. It’s an amazing combination of fresh herbs, garlic, zest, and spice that wows the tastebuds. And the best part is it’s healthy and easy to make! Impress your guests with the Best Vegan Roasted Tomato and Basil Dip!

Why You’ll Love It

First of all, this dip is very easy to make and comes together in just 10 minutes. Aside from lightly roasting the tomatoes in the oven, there is no cooking. Simply add the ingredients to the food processor and blend until combined.

Second, it is bursting with flavour! The tomatoes add sweetness while the lemon juice gives the dip tartness. Brazil and macadamia nuts give a buttery richness that elevates the overall taste. The delicious herby flavours of the fresh basil and garlic tie it all together with a bit of heat from the cayenne pepper.

Third, this dip is versatile. It works well for holiday dinners, parties, and even for snacks, breakfasts, and lunches. Serve with vegetables, crackers, or as a spread on toast.

Finally, this dip is extremely healthy. From the garlic and lemon to the cayenne pepper and Brazil nuts, this dip is an immune booster. All the ingredients used in this recipe are prebiotics, meaning they feed the beneficial bacteria in our guts, which promotes a stronger immune system. Aside from this important feature, these foods support immune function through their antioxidant properties which reduce inflammation and combat free radicals. Furthermore, garlic is antiviral and stimulates the production of white blood cells, while cayenne pepper stimulates circulation, moving immune cells throughout the body more effectively. Brazil nuts are high in selenium, a mineral that boosts the activity of white blood cells and enhances immune response. Brazil nuts are one of the richest sources of selenium, an essential mineral that plays a role in thyroid, cognitive, heart, and reproductive health. Since they make up the bulk of this recipe, let’s have a more in-depth look at the health benefits of Brazil nuts.

Health Benefits of Brazil Nuts

 Brazilian nuts are not only delicious but they are also packed with health benefits.  For starters, they are high in monounsaturated fats which help lower cholesterol and blood pressure.   They also contain magnesium and potassium which support heart health. 

Rich in antioxidants such as selenium and vitamin E, Brazil nuts are anti-inflammatory.  Eating Brazil nuts as part of a healthy diet can reduce your risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis and asthma. 

As mentioned, Brazil nuts are one of the richest sources of selenium which is important for many functions.  It’s essential for a healthy thyroid which boosts mood, metabolism, and energy levels.  It reduces oxidative stress, associated with diminished cognitive function and Alzheimer’s.  Getting enough selenium is linked with increased cognitive capacity. Finally, selenium is also a factor in reproductive health.  In women, it helps balance hormone levels, while in men, it enhances sperm production and motility.  

In summary, including Brazil nuts in the diet can help improve overall health and wellness.

Tools Needed

• Baking sheet
• Food processor

Ingredients

• Brazil nuts
• Macadamia nuts – gives a richer taste
• Lemon juice – fresh
• Garlic
• Tomatoes – grape or cherry give the best flavour
• Basil – fresh
• Cayenne pepper – gives a little heat to the dip
• Salt – I use Himalayan or Celtic

How to Make the Best Vegan Roasted Tomato & Basil Dip

Start by lightly roasting the tomatoes in the oven. I usually set the oven to 400 F and roast for 5 – 8 minutes.

In the meantime, add the rest of the ingredients to the food processor. Once they are ready, add the roasted tomatoes to the food processor, blending until you have a well-combined but chunky dip. If you prefer a smoother dip, simply blend longer.

Serve as a dip with veggies and crackers, or as a spread on toast.

Notes

• If macadamia nuts are not available, the dip can be made with all Brazil nuts or vice versa.
• This dip is very versatile and is an excellent choice for holiday dinners, parties, picnics, potlucks, breakfasts, and lunches.
• Fresh basil elevates the flavour of this dip but dried can be used if fresh is not available.
• Soaking the nuts for a few hours can make them softer with a creamier texture when blended.