Festive Tossed Salad

An especially lovely salad for the holidays. Always a crowd favorite!

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
2 to 3 teaspoons poppy seeds

10 cups torn romaine lettuce (about 1 head lettuce)
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded (or finely chopped) Swiss Cheese
1 medium apple, cored and cubed (I like Gala apples for this salad)
1 medium pear, cored and cubed
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1 /2 to 1 cup chopped cashews (I like lots!)


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, Swiss cheese, apple, pear and cranberries. Drizzle with desired amount of dressing. Add cashews: toss to coat. Serve immediately.

Yield: 8-10 servings.