Broccoli Cashew Salad with Apples and Cranberries

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fresh broccoli, apples, and pears, this salad is a great source of vitamins and fiber.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweetness of the fruits complements the savory crunch of broccoli and cashews, while dried cranberries add a pleasant tartness.
• Versatile Dressing: The creamy dressing, made with mayonnaise, sour cream (or kefir or Greek yogurt), honey, and lemon juice, ties all the ingredients together beautifully.

Ingredients

• 5 cups broccoli florets, chopped into small bites
• 1 apple, cored and diced
• 1 firm pear, cored and diced
• ¼ cup red onion, diced
• 1 cup cashews, toasted or roasted
• 1 cup dried cranberries

Creamy Salad Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream, kefir, or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ¼ cup honey, softened or warmed
• ¼ teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, diced apple, diced pear, diced red onion, toasted cashews, and dried cranberries.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or kefir or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, softened honey, and salt until smooth.
3. Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Nuts: Substitute cashews with pecans, walnuts, or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Dried Fruit: Replace cranberries with raisins, dried cherries, or dried blueberries to suit your preference.
• Dressing: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or sour cream.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Note that the salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the fruits may release moisture over time, making the salad less crisp. This salad is typically served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

What type of apple works best in this salad?

Crisp and sweet varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp are ideal for this salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. However, for the best texture, consider adding the dressing just before serving.

How do I toast cashews?

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread raw cashews on a rimmed baking sheet and roast for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Is there a substitute for red onion?

If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use green onions or shallots instead.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture and crunch. Frozen broccoli may become too soft and watery for this salad.

How can I make the dressing sweeter?

Increase the amount of honey to your taste preference if you prefer a sweeter dressing.

What can I use instead of honey in the dressing?

Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives to honey.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes, adding crumbled feta or shredded sharp cheddar can enhance the flavor profile.

How do I prevent the apple and pear from browning?

Toss the diced apple and pear in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad to slow down the browning process.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any packaged items, like mayonnaise or dried cranberries, are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.

Conclusion

Broccoli Cashew Salad with Apples, Pears, and Cranberries is a refreshing and nutritious dish that brings together a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s easy to prepare and versatile enough to complement a variety of meals. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, potluck, or picnic, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

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