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Cashew Crunch Salad

This Cashew Crunch Salad features a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables topped with a toasted cashew nut crunch that adds a delightful texture. The salad is tossed with a bright, tangy dressing and finished with a generous sprinkle of toasted nuts, creating a satisfying balance of crunch and freshness. Its appealing appearance and layered textures make it a perfect quick side or snack.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Modern
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup raw cashews for toasting
  • 2 large bell peppers preferably red or yellow, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for vegan option
  • to taste salt adjust as needed

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Place a dry skillet over medium heat. Add raw cashews and toast, stirring frequently, for about 3-5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, then coarsely chop.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, olive oil, and a pinch of salt until well combined—this forms your tangy dressing.
  3. Thinly slice the bell peppers, carrots, and red onion. Add the sliced vegetables to the bowl with the dressing and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
  4. Add the toasted, chopped cashews to the salad. Gently fold them in to distribute the crunch without breaking the nuts apart.
  5. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if desired. Let the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the cashews to settle into the vegetables.
  6. Serve the salad chilled on a platter, topped with extra toasted cashews if you like an extra crunch, and enjoy the fresh, textured bites.