Swiss Cashew Tossed Salad
A creamy, crunchy salad featuring crisp romaine, salted cashews, and Swiss cheese tossed in a tangy homemade vinaigrette, perfect for light lunches or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard, grated onion, and salt. Cover and process until well blended.
- While processing, gradually add the vegetable oil in a steady stream.
- Stir in the poppy seeds.
- In a salad bowl, combine the torn romaine, salted cashew halves, and julienned Swiss cheese.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter dressing, substitute half of the vegetable oil with Greek yogurt or a low-fat mayonnaise. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can replace the cashews with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the flavor of the dressing. Always use fresh romaine for the best texture and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Swiss Cashew Tossed Salad is perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Creamed Brussels Sprouts or as part of a buffet spread. For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or tofu. Serve with crusty bread to soak up any leftover dressing.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the salad may become soggy as the dressing continues to absorb into the greens. For best results, keep the dressing separate and toss only what you plan to eat. Refrain from reheating, as salads are best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Swiss Cashew Tossed Salad contains roughly 174 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1084mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or stir before use, as it may separate over time. This makes it convenient for meal prep or last-minute salads.
What can I substitute for Swiss cheese?
If you can't find Swiss cheese, Gruyère or Emmental can be excellent substitutes due to their similar flavor profiles and textures. For a non-dairy option, consider using a vegan cheese that melts well or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. The ingredients are wholesome and nutritious, making it a great choice for anyone following a vegetarian diet. You can also explore more vegetarian recipes to complement this dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).