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Crisp Vegetable and Toasted Cashew Salad

This vibrant salad combines crunchy, fresh vegetables with toasted cashews for added richness and texture. Tossed in a tangy, honey-sweetened lemon dressing, it offers a light yet satisfying bite with a beautiful mix of colors and textures. Perfect as a quick lunch, side dish, or potluck addition, it’s endlessly customizable and bursting with fresh flavors.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: fusion
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup cashews roughly chopped after toasting
  • 2 cups cucumbers sliced into thin rounds
  • 1 cup bell peppers any color, sliced into strips
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots fresh and crisp
  • 1 whole lemon for freshly squeezed juice
  • 2 tablespoons honey adjust to taste
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 1/4 cup vinegar apple cider or white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup fresh herbs parsley, cilantro, or basil, chopped

Equipment

  • Toaster or skillet for toasting nuts
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Serving bowl

Method
 

  1. Heat a skillet or toaster to medium and toast the cashews until golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and let cool before roughly chopping them.
  2. Wash and slice the cucumbers into thin rounds. Prepare the bell peppers by slicing into thin strips. Shred the carrots if not pre-shredded.
  3. Juice the lemon into a small bowl or jar, removing any seeds. Whisk in honey, olive oil, and vinegar until the dressing is smooth and slightly emulsified.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, and shredded carrots. Toss gently to mix the vibrant colors and textures.
  5. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly. The vegetables should be bright and slightly glossy from the dressing.
  6. Add the toasted cashews and chopped herbs to the salad. Toss again gently to incorporate all the crunchy and fresh elements.
  7. Garnish with additional herbs if desired and serve immediately. The salad should look colorful, with a pleasing mix of textures and a fresh, inviting aroma.

Notes

For extra protein, add grilled chicken or shrimp. Feel free to customize with additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes or radishes for more color and crunch.