Step 1

Add the cashews to a bowl with boiling hot water. Allow to soak for at least 10 minutes, and up to an hour. Drain, reserving half a cup of the water to blend.

Step 2

Combine all listed ingredients in a blender until smooth. Add a clove of garlic if savory, and a teaspoon of maple syrup for sweetness.

Step 3

For an easy salad dressing, take 3 tablespoons of cashew cream, and dilute with 1 tablespoon of water, 1 tablespoon vinegar and 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley.