Creamy Cauliflower Cashew Salad
Looking for a Fresh Take on Summer Salads?
Seeking a delightful twist on traditional summer salads? This Creamy Cauliflower Cashew Salad is not just a refreshing alternative to your usual BBQ side dishes like potato or pasta salad, but it’s also healthy, delicious, and wonderfully unique. Even if you’re not a fan of broccoli, this cauliflower-based dish promises to win you over!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
At first glance, the combination of cauliflower florets, peas, cashews, and Swiss cheese might sound unusual, but trust us, it’s a match made in salad heaven. The creamy texture comes from Greek yogurt and sour cream, enhanced with ranch seasoning, dried dill, and dried basil for a herby, earthy flavor. This dish strikes a perfect balance, making it a crowd-pleaser every time!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl
- Large serving bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 3 cups cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cups frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup cashews
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely sliced, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup Swiss cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 (1 oz.) package dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and sour cream. Season with ranch seasoning, dill, basil, salt, and pepper.
- In a large serving bowl, toss together the cauliflower florets, peas, and cashews. Mix in the Swiss cheese and green onions.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Tips for Success
For a crunchier texture, lightly toast the cashews before adding them to the salad. If you prefer a sharper cheese flavor, try substituting Swiss cheese with cheddar.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to add more veggies like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. You can also swap the ranch seasoning with your favorite herb mix for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This salad is rich in vitamins C and K from cauliflower, protein from Greek yogurt, and healthy fats from cashews, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Just give it a good toss before serving.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
To make it vegan, use dairy-free yogurt and cheese alternatives.
Conclusion
We hope you’ll give this Creamy Cauliflower Cashew Salad a try and let it become a staple at your gatherings. It’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh ingredients in a creative and tasty dish. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to share your experiences!
