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Cashew Crunch Salad

This Cashew Crunch Salad features toasted cashews combined with fresh salad greens, citrus segments, red onion, and herbs, all tossed in a tangy honey vinaigrette. The dish offers a crisp texture from the toasted nuts and fresh produce, with vibrant flavors and a bright appearance that makes it perfect for a light meal or side dish.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Fusion
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup raw cashews
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
  • 1 orange or grapefruit citrus fruit, segmented
  • 1 small red onion thinly sliced
  • a handful fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley, basil) chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Small bowl
  • Large salad bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the raw cashews evenly on a baking sheet and toast for about 8-10 minutes, until they turn golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, then remove and let cool slightly.
  2. While the cashews are cooling, whisk together olive oil, honey or maple syrup, vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create the tangy dressing. Adjust seasoning to taste, balancing sweetness and acidity.
  3. In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh greens, citrus segments, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped herbs. Toss gently to distribute all the ingredients evenly and coat the greens lightly with any residual dressing.
  4. Roughly chop the toasted cashews once cooled, then sprinkle them over the salad just before serving to keep their crunch intact.
  5. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. The nuts should remain crunchy, and the greens should be well-coated with the tangy dressing.
  6. Serve immediately to enjoy the vibrant flavors and contrasting textures of crunchy cashews, fresh greens, and juicy citrus.

Notes

Feel free to add extra crunch with toasted seeds or protein with grilled chicken or feta. Adjust the dressing to suit your taste—more sweetness or acidity as preferred.