Description
A refreshing and crunchy Broccoli Cashew Salad with sweet apples, pears, and dried cranberries, tossed in a creamy honey-lemon dressing. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack, this salad combines fresh produce, nuts, and a tangy dressing for a well-balanced flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 5 cups broccoli florets (chopped into small bites)
- 1 large apple (cored and diced)
- 1 large pear (firm, cored and diced)
- 1/4 cup red onion (diced)
- 1 cup cashews (toasted or roasted)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or kefir or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup honey (softened or warmed up)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the chopped broccoli florets, diced apple, diced pear, diced red onion, toasted or roasted cashews, and dried cranberries until evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or kefir or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, honey, and salt. Ensure the honey is soft and runny; warm it slightly if needed to blend smoothly. Adjust salt to taste.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the broccoli mixture and stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients with the dressing evenly. Serve immediately or refrigerate to chill before serving.
Notes
- Use firm apples and pears to maintain crunchiness in the salad.
- To toast cashews, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- You can substitute sour cream with kefir or Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and lighter texture.
- If you prefer a sweeter salad, increase honey to 1/3 cup.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours ahead; just keep it refrigerated and stir before serving.
