Crunchy Broccoli Cashew Salad with Apples, Pears, and Cranberries

A Fresh and Flavorful Salad You’ll Love

There’s something special about a salad that’s both nutritious and delicious. When you take a bite of Crunchy Broccoli Cashew Salad with Apples, Pears, and Cranberries, you experience a perfect balance of flavors and textures—the crispness of broccoli, the sweetness of apples and pears, the crunch of toasted cashews, and the chewiness of dried cranberries.

This salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a refreshing meal prep option, a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, or a flavorful addition to your holiday spread, this salad is sure to impress.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this delicious and wholesome broccoli salad

Ingredients for Crunchy Broccoli Cashew Salad with Apples, Pears, and Cranberries

Before you start, gather all your ingredients.

Salad Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Broccoli florets (chopped)	5 cups
Apple (diced)	1
Firm pear (diced)	1
Red onion (diced)	¼ cup
Cashews (toasted or roasted)	1 cup
Dried cranberries	1 cup

Creamy Salad Dressing Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Mayonnaise	½ cup
Sour cream (or kefir/Greek yogurt)	½ cup
Lemon juice	2 tablespoons
Honey (softened)	¼ cup
Salt	¼ teaspoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Chop the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces.
• Core and dice both the apple and the pear into small chunks.
• Dice the red onion finely to avoid overpowering the dish.
• If your cashews aren’t toasted, lightly roast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant.

2. Mix the Salad

• In a large salad bowl, combine broccoli, diced apple, diced pear, red onion, toasted cashews, and dried cranberries.
• Toss everything together gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.

3. Make the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or kefir/Greek yogurt), lemon juice, honey, and salt.
• Ensure the honey is well blended for a smooth, creamy dressing.

4. Dress the Salad

• Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad.
• Toss everything until the ingredients are well-coated with the creamy dressing.

5. Chill and Serve

• For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• This allows the flavors to blend beautifully and enhances the taste.

6. Garnish and Enjoy

• For an extra touch, garnish with more toasted cashews or fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
• Serve and enjoy this vibrant, crunchy, and creamy salad!

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cashew Salad

✔️ Packed with Nutrients

• Broccoli is high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Cashews provide healthy fats and plant-based protein.
• Apples and pears add natural sweetness and fiber.
• Cranberries bring a boost of antioxidants.

✔️ A Perfect Balance of Textures and Flavors

• Crunchy broccoli and cashews contrast beautifully with the soft apples and pears.
• The tangy dressing ties everything together with a creamy and slightly sweet finish.

✔️ Ideal for Meal Prep

• This salad stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prepping.
• It’s perfect for lunches, potlucks, or quick weeknight meals.

✔️ Customizable and Diet-Friendly

• Make it dairy-free by using a plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream.
• For a vegan version, swap the mayonnaise for a vegan alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Boost the protein by adding grilled chicken or chickpeas.

Pro Tips for the Best Broccoli Cashew Salad

1. Use Fresh and Crisp Broccoli

• Fresh broccoli gives the salad a great crunch. If you prefer a softer texture, lightly blanch the broccoli for 1 minute, then cool it before mixing.

2. Adjust the Sweetness

• If you like a tangier salad, use less honey or increase the lemon juice.
• If you prefer it sweeter, add more dried cranberries or a drizzle of maple syrup.

3. Toast the Cashews

• Toasting the cashews enhances their flavor and crunch. A few minutes in a dry skillet over medium heat will do the trick!

4. Let the Salad Rest

• Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes every bite more delicious.

5. Serve It Cold

• This salad tastes best when served cold, making it refreshing and perfect for warm weather.

How to Store and Make Ahead

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Stir well before serving, as the dressing may settle.

Can You Make It Ahead of Time?

Yes! Prepare the salad up to a day in advance, but add the dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients crisp and fresh.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

It’s best to use fresh broccoli for crunch, but if using frozen, thaw and drain well before mixing.

2. Can I substitute cashews with another nut?

Yes! Almonds, walnuts, or pecans work great as substitutes.

3. What can I serve this salad with?

• Grilled chicken, steak, or salmon
• A side for holiday dinners
• Stuffed into wraps or sandwiches

4. Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free mayo and yogurt to make it completely dairy-free.

5. How do I keep apples and pears from browning?

Toss them in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad to keep them fresh and crisp.

6. Can I make this salad without mayo?

Yes! Substitute with Greek yogurt or an avocado-based dressing for a lighter version.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Crunchy Broccoli Cashew Salad!

This Crunchy Broccoli Cashew Salad with Apples, Pears, and Cranberries is a must-try if you love fresh, vibrant flavors with a satisfying crunch. It’s nutrient-dense, full of color, and incredibly delicious—perfect for any meal or occasion.

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