Fresh Pear and Apple Salad with Irresistible Poppy Seed Dressing

This Pear and Apple Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.

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Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings: 4 servings

Course: salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Salad

4 cups Romaine Lettuce Substitution: Any leafy green like kale or spinach can be used.
1 whole Green Pear Substitution: Bartlett or Anjou pears can also work, but choose firm varieties.
1 whole Honeycrisp Apple Substitution: Granny Smith apples will add a more tart flavor profile.
½ cup Swiss Cheese Substitution: Use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
½ cup Roasted Cashews Preparation Note: Roughly chop for better mixing and texture.
½ cup Dried Cranberries Substitution: Raisins or other dried fruits can be used.

For the Poppy Seed Dressing

½ cup Mayonnaise Substitution: Vegan mayo for a plant-based option.
¼ cup Half-and-Half Substitution: Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
2 tablespoons Sugar Substitution: Honey or maple syrup can also work.
2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Note: White vinegar can be an alternative, though it may alter flavor slightly.
1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Note: Can be omitted for a milder flavor.
1 pinch Salt Use kosher salt for better texture.
2 tablespoons Poppy Seeds Essential for the dressing to achieve that classic creamy poppy seed profile.

Equipment

Small bowl
large salad bowl
whisk
spoon
salad tongs

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Poppy Seed Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, half-and-half, sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
Chop the Salad Ingredients: Chop the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large salad bowl. Core and slice the green pear and cube the Honeycrisp apple, adding them to the bowl. Shred the Swiss cheese and roughly chop the roasted cashews, mixing all ingredients.
Add Dried Cranberries: Pour in the dried cranberries and gently toss the ingredients together to meld the flavors without losing the texture.
Combine with the Dressing: Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently to coat all ingredients.
Serve Immediately: Present the salad in a large bowl or in individual servings and enjoy the fresh flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 6gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain the salad's freshness. Customize with seasonal fruits as desired.

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