Spicy Macadamia Walnut Dip: A Heart-Healthy Sauce with a Kick

It’s raw; it’s real; it’s from the heart—my heart. People often ask me where I find the drive to do what I do—why I’m so relentless in creating health programs and recipes that get real results. The answer goes back to my 35th birthday, a day that changed everything for me.

That day should have been filled with celebration and joy, but instead, it brought devastating news that would forever shape my purpose. My mom, just 56 years old, died of a massive heart attack—an event I know could have been prevented.

She was open to change. Just days before, we had talked about her starting a healthier diet when I visited after graduation. But we ran out of time. She never had the chance to implement the changes we talked about. That’s the part that still hurts the most.

Her loss ignited a fire in me to make sure others don’t have to face the same tragedy. Every recipe, every program, every tool I create is driven by the belief that heart health isn’t just about living longer—it’s about living better.

Recipes like this gluten free, dairy free dish aren’t just delicious—they’re created to support your heart, balance your hormones, and energize your life. It’s my way of turning heartbreak into hope and helping others take control of their health, one meal at a time.

What Is This Macadamia Walnut Dip Made Of?

This gluten free, dairy free recipe is a creamy blend of macadamia nuts, sprouted walnuts, and hemp seeds, creating a smooth and nutrient-dense base. Fresh lemon juice adds a tangy brightness, while chipotle and sriracha (if you like it spicy) bring a smoky heat. Kelp provides a subtle umami flavor along with essential minerals, and arugula adds a peppery bite. For thickness, konjac powder is the secret ingredient, turning this sauce into a versatile gluten free, dairy free dip.

This recipe is raw, vegan, keto-friendly, gluten free, and dairy free, making it a perfect addition to a variety of diets. This plant based dip will be perfect for your next party.

How Do You Make the Macadamia Walnut Dip?

Making this gluten free, dairy free recipe is as simple as blending and tasting. Start by tossing all the ingredients (except the konjac powder and sriracha) into a high-speed blender or food processor. Watch as the nuts and seeds transform into a luscious, creamy base. Add the sriracha for an extra kick, and if you’re going for a thicker texture, mix in a little konjac powder and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Pour it up into a serving bowl, and let the dipping begin!

Enjoy this gluten free, dairy free dip with some low glycemic, fresh veggies like steamed broccoli florets, slices of jicama, sugar snap peas, bell peppers, or cucumber, or use it as a spread in a wrap like this low carb Avocado Wrap or on this Rainbow Crunch Bowl.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container, and the flavors will meld even more.

How Do You Customize This Recipe?

This gluten free, dairy free recipe is versatile and can be easily tailored to your taste.

• Adjust the spice level: Use more or less chipotle and sriracha to match your heat preference. Or add a little cayenne pepper, and sprinkle on a little smoked paprika.

• Add a little more tanginess: Add more fresh lemon juice or a little apple cider vinegar.

• Add herbs: Throw in fresh cilantro or parsley for a herbal twist. You could even mix in your favorite dried herbs and spices to adjust the flavor.

• Swap the greens: Don’t have arugula? Spinach or kale work beautifully, too.

• Boost the nutrients: Add a teaspoon of spirulina or chlorella for an extra nutritional punch. You could even add a pinch of sea salt.

• Make it nut-free: Replace the macadamia nuts and walnuts with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or avocado.

• Out of fresh garlic: Use a teaspoon of garlic powder or add some fermented garlic. You could also use some onion powder. Sprinkle some fresh chives on top.

No matter how you tweak it, eat this tasty, gluten free, dairy free dip with veggies and as a delicious spread on your favorite wrap. It is vegan friendly and fits a keto lifestyle. You'll love its creamy texture and delicious flavor.

You can watch me make a Spicy Chipotle Dip here.

How Do These Ingredients Help with Blood Sugar Balancing, Heart Health, and Hormones?

This low carb, spicy, gluten free, dairy free dip is packed with ingredients that nourish the heart and hormones. Macadamia nuts and sprouted walnuts provide heart-healthy fats and omega-3s, promoting hormonal balance and reducing inflammation. Hemp seeds have a perfect omega-3 to omega-6 ratio which supports cardiovascular health and hormone production. Kelp adds iodine for thyroid support, while arugula boosts nitric oxide for better circulation and nutrient delivery. Chipotle and sriracha bring a fiery kick while supporting metabolism and heart health, and konjac powder promotes gut health, blood sugar stability, and satiety. 

Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts contain monounsaturated fats, primarily oleic acid, which are important in supporting heart health and hormonal balance. Hormones rely on fats for their synthesis and are essential for producing sex hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. These fats also help stabilize blood sugar and reduce insulin resistance.

The low carbohydrate content and healthy fats work synergistically to stabilize blood sugar levels. They reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome which can disrupt hormone production and increase stress on the endocrine system.

Macadamia nuts contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system by lowering LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and markers of inflammation like leukotriene B4. A strong cardiovascular system ensures optimal blood flow, which is critical for transporting hormones. Improved circulation also supports the health of endocrine glands, including the thyroid and adrenal glands.

Macadamia nuts are a source of important micronutrients like magnesium and manganese, which are essential for hormone production and metabolism. Magnesium helps regulate the stress response by calming the nervous system and supporting adrenal health, while manganese is crucial for thyroid hormone synthesis and reproductive health.

Sprouted Walnuts 

Sprouted walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and other vital nutrients that support hormonal health, brain function, and cardiovascular health. The sprouting process enhances their nutrient availability.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for hormone production and reducing inflammation. Sprouted walnuts provide a concentrated source of these fats, supporting the synthesis of sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone while also calming inflammation in hormone-producing glands.

Sprouting enhances the bioavailability of nutrients so that the body can efficiently absorb their hormone-supportive properties. This process also reduces compounds like phytic acid, which can interfere with mineral absorption. This allows key nutrients like magnesium and zinc to nourish the endocrine system.

The omega-3 fatty acids in sprouted walnuts are known to support brain health by reducing oxidative stress and promoting healthy neuronal function. A well-functioning brain is essential for regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the control center for hormonal balance.

Sprouted walnuts are rich in antioxidants and vitamin E, both of which protect cells from oxidative damage. Vitamin E is particularly important for reproductive health, supporting egg and sperm quality while reducing inflammation that can interfere with fertility.

Sprouted walnuts promote better heart health by improving cholesterol balance and reducing LDL cholesterol . A healthy cardiovascular system ensures optimal blood flow to endocrine glands to support efficient hormone production and distribution.

Hemp Seeds

Hemp seeds are packed with essential fatty acids, plant-based protein, and many micronutrients. They are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, with an ideal 3:1 ratio that supports hormone production and regulation. These fats are vital building blocks for sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone.

Hemp seeds contain arginine, an amino acid that produces nitric oxide, which helps relax blood vessels and improve circulation. Better blood flow ensures that hormones are effectively transported and support efficient endocrine function and reproductive health.

Chronic inflammation can wreak havoc on the endocrine system, but the omega-3 fatty acids help counteract this. By reducing inflammatory markers, these seeds support a healthier hormonal environment and mitigate the effects of stress on hormone production.

Hemp seeds are an excellent source of magnesium, a mineral that plays a key role in reducing cortisol (the stress hormone) and supporting adrenal health. Magnesium also regulates heartbeat, benefiting cardiovascular health and reducing strain on the endocrine system.The linoleic acid and fiber content in hemp seeds help reduce total cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure.

Hemp seeds provide complete plant-based protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. These amino acids are the building blocks of enzymes and hormone.

Kelp

Kelp, a nutrient-dense sea vegetable, supports hormonal balance and cardiovascular health. Kelp contains antioxidants and essential minerals that provide a range of benefits.Kelp is one of nature’s richest sources of iodine, a critical mineral for thyroid hormone production. The thyroid gland relies on iodine to produce hormones like T3 and T4, which regulate metabolism, energy levels, and hormonal balance.

Kelp contains fucoxanthin, a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects. Chronic inflammation can disrupt hormone production and signaling. Kelp provides EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid that supports balanced hormones and improves cholesterol levels. Omega-3s also aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healthy cell membranes.

Kelp contains prebiotics from the sulfated polysaccharides which nourish beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome supports the production of hormones like serotonin and plays a role in regulating inflammation, blood sugar, and overall endocrine health.

Kelp is rich in potassium which helps lower blood pressure by balancing sodium levels and flavonoids that have been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol and improve the total cholesterol profile. Kelp also contains fucoidan, a compound with anticoagulant effects that can help prevent blood clots.

Kelp is a rich source of vitamins K and folate, as well as minerals like magnesium and calcium, all of which contribute to cardiovascular and hormonal health.

Arugula

Arugula has a unique combination of nitrates, antioxidants, and essential vitamins like vitamin C which make it a standout ingredient for promoting health.

Arugula is rich in antioxidants like lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin C, which help reduce oxidative stress. These compounds ensure that hormone-producing glands like the thyroid and adrenal glands function optimally.

The natural nitrates in arugula promote the production of nitric oxide, a compound that dilates blood vessels and improves circulation. This enhanced blood flow supports the transport of hormones to ensure efficient communication between the endocrine glands and target tissues.

Arugula is a good source of potassium, a mineral that supports adrenal health by regulating fluid balance and stress response. Proper potassium levels also help lower blood pressure by reducing strain on the cardiovascular system.

Vitamin K in arugula plays a dual role: preventing arterial calcification and supporting bone health. It’s also essential for proper blood clotting, ensuring smooth circulation, which is critical for hormone delivery and heart health.

Chipotle and Sriracha 

Chipotle and Sriracha offer some surprising health benefits, particularly for heart and hormone health.

Chipotle
Chipotle, made from smoked and dried jalapeños, contains capsaicin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce cholesterol and support better circulation. Capsaicin reduces inflammation, which is beneficial for overall hormone and heart health.

Sriracha
Sriracha is made from chili peppers, garlic, and vinegar. The chilis contain capsaicin, which can help lower cholesterol, improve blood pressure, and enhance circulation. The fiery kick of capsaicin also releases endorphins, the body’s feel-good hormones, which can reduce stress and improve mood. The garlic contributes to lowering cholesterol and blood pressure supporting vascular health.

Konjac Powder

Konjac powder, also known as glucomannan, is a dietary fiber derived from the root of the konjac plant (Amorphophallus konjac). Traditionally used in Asian cuisine and medicine, this ingredient supports hormonal balance, gut health, and cardiovascular function.

Konjac’s soluble fiber slows the absorption of sugars, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels. This reduces stress on the pancreas and promotes balanced insulin levels.

As a prebiotic, konjac powder nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthy microbiome. A balanced gut microbiome is essential for hormonal regulation, as it influences estrogen metabolism, stress response, and even mood-related hormones like serotonin.

Konjac powder has been shown to lower total and LDL cholesterol levels. Its fiber content also supports healthy blood pressure by improving blood vessel function and reducing arterial stiffness. A strong cardiovascular system is vital for delivering hormones efficiently.

By absorbing water and expanding in the stomach, konjac fiber creates a feeling of fullness, reducing appetite and aiding in weight management. Maintaining a healthy weight supports balanced hormones in reducing estrogen dominance and preventing metabolic disruptions. *Only use a small amount and stay very well hydrated when using konjac powder.

This delicious, creamy gluten free, dairy free dip is a way to show your body some love while supporting your heart. After losing my mom to a preventable heart attack, I became passionate about creating recipes that taste amazing while also nourishing and protecting. This dairy free dip is packed with ingredients to boost circulation. They all work together to balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and fuel energy. It’s quick, it’s delicious, and it’s a simple step toward taking control of your health.

Where Can You Find This and Other Nutritious and Delicious Recipes Like It?

This recipe is featured in the eBook Heart Healthy and Delicious Recipes That Boost Nitric Oxide and Protect Your Cardiovascular System by Dr. Ritamarie Loscalzo from our Genes Diet Heart Summit. If you want to learn more about how to protect your heart, get the replay and more here.

You can also find a whole digital library in the Body Freedom Nutrition Lab. Here, you’ll learn how to master the art of using delicious foods to shed belly fat, reduce inflammation, clear brain fog, and finally have the energy to live the vibrant life you deserve. Join us and discover how food can transform your

You can also find a whole digital library in the Body Freedom Nutrition Lab. Here, you’ll learn how to master the art of using delicious foods to shed belly fat, reduce inflammation, clear brain fog, and finally have the energy to live the vibrant life you deserve. Join us and discover how food can transform your health!