cashew and swiss cheese salad with poppy seed dressing
Aleen Leggans
Ingredients
- Cashews (main ingredient)
- Swiss Cheese Slices or Shreds (key ingredient)
- Mixed Greens (base)
- Cherry Tomatoes (optional, adds color and freshness)
- Red Onion, thinly sliced (for flavor contrast)
- Poppy Seeds (important for dressing)
- Olive Oil (essential for dressing)
- Lemon Juice (helps with emulsification in the dressing)
- Dijon Mustard (adds a tangy kick to the dressing)
- Honey (sweetens the dressing and complements flavors)
- Salt (to taste, enhances flavor)
- Black Pepper (freshly ground, adds depth of flavor)
Use these keywords and SEO-friendly terms for better search visibility:
- Cashew
- Swiss cheese
- Salad ingredients
- Poppy seed dressing
- Mixed greens
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red onion
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Dijon mustard
- Honey
- Salt
- Black pepper
Steps
### Cashew and Swiss Cheese Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
#### Introduction
Discover how to create a delightful cashew and swiss cheese salad that's perfect for any meal or event! This recipe combines the creamy texture of Swiss cheese with crunchy cashews, all tied together by a poppy seed dressing. The combination of flavors is sure to impress your guests.
#### Ingredients
- 1 cup cashews, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes and drained
- 2 cups shredded swiss cheese
- 1 large apple, cored and sliced into thin strips
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
#### Poppy Seed Dressing Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- Zest of one lemon
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
#### Steps for the Poppy Seed Dressing
1. **Combine Mayonnaise and Mustard**: In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until well blended.
2. **Add Honey and Lemon Zest**: Stir in honey and lemon zest to enhance the flavor profile.
3. **Incorporate Remaining Ingredients**: Mix in poppy seeds, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. **Taste and Adjust**: Taste your dressing; adjust seasoning as needed.
#### Instructions for the Salad
1. **Prepare Cashews**: Soak cashews in water for at least 30 minutes to soften them. Drain and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. **Assemble Salad**:
- In a large bowl, combine shredded Swiss cheese, sliced apple, chopped red onion, dried cranberries (if using), and the drained cashews.
- Toss lightly to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
3. **Add Poppy Seed Dressing**: Pour your prepared poppy seed dressing over the salad. Gently toss until every piece of the salad is coated with the dressing.
4. **Season**: Add a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor, then taste test and adjust as necessary.
#### Tips
- For a creamier texture, use full-fat mayonnaise in your dressing.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
- Garnish with additional poppy seeds just before serving for an extra touch of elegance.
#### Conclusion
Enjoy this versatile cashew and Swiss cheese salad dressed up with a poppy seed dressing. Perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or even part of a potluck menu. This recipe is simple to make and can be customized according to your taste preferences!
By following these detailed steps and using the right keywords, you'll optimize this recipe for search engines while providing clear instructions for your readers.