Monday, April 25, 2011

Festive Tossed Salad


I got this yummy salad recipe from my mom. I took it to our friends' house for Easter Dinner and everyone really liked it. It's simple but also perfect for special occasions. Enjoy!

10 cups torn romaine
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or mozzarella)
3 medium apples, cored and cubed (soak them in Sprite to keep them from turning brown)
1 medium pear, cored and cubed
1/4 to 1/2 cup cranberries
1/2 cup to 1 cup chopped cashews

Dressing

1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup cider or red wine vinegar
2 Tablespoons lemon juice
2 Tablespoons finely chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup vegetable oil (I use olive oil)*
2 to 3 Tablespoons poppy seeds**

In a blender or food processor, combine the sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, onion, and salt. Cover and process until blended. With blender running, gradually add oil. Add poppy seeds and blend. In a salad bowl, combine the romaine, cheese,e apple, pear, and cranberries. Drizzle with desired amount of dressing. Add cashews and toss to coat. Serve immediately. Yield: 8-10 servings.

*I only use 1/3 cup of oil and I think it is plenty.
**I think 3 Tbsp. of poppy seeds is too many.