Festive Tossed Salad

We made this for our Christmas brunch, and Hallie and Mike like it enough that they will definitely make it again. 

Festive Tossed Salad 

From Taste of Home 

With its unique medley of fruits and festive look, this salad is a holiday tradition at our house. Our three grown daughters have come to expect it. One forkful reminds us of all the things we can be thankful for. -Jauneen Hosking, Greenfield, Wisconsin

SERVINGS  8-10

CATEGORY Salads 

PREP 15 min. 

TOTAL 15 min. 

INGREDIENTS 

• 1/2 cup sugar
  
• 1/3 cup 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 
  
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Swiss cheese 
  
• 1 medium apple, chopped 
  
• 1 medium pear, chopped 
  
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries 
  
• 1/2 to 1 cup chopped cashews 
  

DIRECTIONS      

    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.