Broccoli Cashew Salad with Apples, Pears, and Cranberries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with a variety of textures and flavors, this salad combines the crispness of fresh broccoli with the sweetness of apples and pears, complemented by the richness of cashews and the tartness of cranberries. The homemade creamy dressing brings it all together, making each bite a delightful experience. This salad is also versatile, allowing you to customize it with different fruits and nuts, making it a great choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

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

For the salad:

• 5 cups chopped broccoli florets
• 1 apple, cored and diced
• 1 pear, cored and diced (firm, not soft)
• ¼ cup diced red onion
• 1 cup roasted or toasted cashews
• 1 cup dried cranberries

For the creamy salad dressing:

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

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine chopped broccoli, diced apple, diced pear, diced red onion, roasted cashews, and dried cranberries.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or kefir or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, honey, and salt. Ensure the honey is softened to make it easier to mix.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything together until evenly coated.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Cauliflower: Replace half the broccoli with cauliflower for a change of flavor.
• Nuts: Swap cashews for pecans, walnuts, peanuts, or pistachios.
• Dried Fruit: Use dried cherries, raisins, or blueberries instead of cranberries.
• Fresh Fruit: Feel free to mix only apples or pears instead of both.
• Salad Dressing: For a lighter version, use kefir or Greek yogurt to replace some of the mayonnaise or sour cream.

Storage/Reheating

This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld and get even better after chilling. It’s not ideal for reheating, as the fresh ingredients and crunchiness of the salad are best enjoyed cold.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge, and the flavors will blend nicely.

2. Can I substitute other fruits for the apples and pears?

Absolutely! You can try using grapes, peaches, or even citrus fruits like oranges for a different twist.

3. What other nuts can I use in this salad?

Pecans, walnuts, peanuts, and pistachios all work wonderfully as alternatives to cashews.

4. Is there a way to make the dressing healthier?

You can reduce the amount of mayonnaise and use Greek yogurt or kefir to make the dressing lighter and healthier.

5. Can I make this salad without the dressing?

While the dressing is an essential part of this recipe, you can serve the salad without it or use a vinaigrette if you prefer a lighter option.

6. How do I roast cashews?

To roast raw cashews, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake them for 10-15 minutes, stirring once or twice until golden brown.

7. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries are quite tart, but if you want to use them, consider lightly sweetening them or cooking them down before adding.

8. How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It lasts up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

9. Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?

Yes, you can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or stevia as alternatives to honey.

10. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this broccoli cashew salad is naturally gluten-free, but always check your dressing ingredients for hidden gluten if you're sensitive.

Conclusion

This Broccoli Cashew Salad with Apples, Pears, and Cranberries is an easy-to-make dish that combines a wonderful variety of textures and flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a party, this salad will surely impress with its freshness and satisfying taste. Plus, it’s customizable and can be made ahead for ultimate convenience!

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