This refreshing Broccoli Cashew Salad blends crisp broccoli, sweet apples and pears, and crunchy cashews with a creamy, sweet, and tangy dressing. It’s a delightful mix of textures and flavors that makes a great side dish for any meal or a light lunch on its own. Here’s how to whip up this nutritious and tasty salad:
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 5 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small bites
- 1 apple, cored and diced
- 1 pear (firm, not soft), cored and diced
- ¼ cup red onion, diced
- 1 cup cashews, toasted or roasted
- 1 cup dried cranberries
For the Creamy Salad Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream, kefir, or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ cup honey, softened or warmed up
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Salad Components:
- Begin by washing the broccoli florets and chopping them into small, bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large salad bowl.
- Core and dice the apple and pear, making sure to cut them into similar sized pieces for uniformity in the salad. Add to the bowl with the broccoli.
- Dice the red onion finely to avoid overpowering the salad and add to the bowl.
- Add the toasted cashews and dried cranberries to the bowl.
- Mix the Creamy Dressing:
- In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or kefir or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, honey, and salt. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more honey or lemon juice if needed.
- Combine the Salad and Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve:
- For best flavor, cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Give the salad a quick mix before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors.
Tips:
- Toasting Cashews: If you have raw cashews, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they are golden and fragrant. This enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch.
- Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like shredded carrots, chopped celery, or sunflower seeds for additional texture and flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs well with grilled meats or can be a standout dish at a potluck or picnic.
Conclusion:
Broccoli Cashew Salad with Apples and Pears is a delightful combination of crunchy, creamy, sweet, and tangy elements. It’s not only pleasing to the palate but also offers a variety of nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any occasion. Enjoy this easy-to-make, colorful salad that’s sure to brighten up your meal and impress your guests with its appealing mix of flavors and textures!