Cranberry Swiss Salad with Cashews and Sweet Poppyseed Dressing

I’ve never brought this salad to any gathering where I don’t get asked for the recipe. My mom began making this recipe years ago, and it has become a true family favorite. It’s one of those dishes that feels a little special but is incredibly simple to throw together — the perfect mix of fresh, sweet, and savory. The creamy Swiss cheese, tart cranberries, and crunchy cashews paired with that smooth, slightly sweet poppyseed dressing make every bite so good. It’s always the first bowl empty at holidays, showers, and get-togethers, and one I know I’ll be making for years to come.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Salad:

2–3 heads romaine lettuce, chopped
1 lb Swiss cheese, cubed
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup cashews

For the Dressing (Blender Method):

¾ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup white wine vinegar
¼ cup Splenda (or to taste)
1–2 tbsp poppy seeds
2–3 tbsp green onion, chopped
½ tsp salt

🥣 Instructions

1. Make the Dressing

Add to a blender:
- white wine vinegar
- Splenda
- salt
- green onion
Blend until smooth
With the blender running, slowly stream in the vegetable oil until the dressing is silky and combined
Stir in or lightly pulse the poppy seeds
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor

2. Prepare the Salad

Chop romaine into bite-sized pieces
Cube Swiss cheese
Add cranberries and cashews

3. Assemble

Toss with dressing just before serving
Start with a small amount, then add more as needed

💡 Tips

Blending the onion gives the dressing a smooth, restaurant-style texture
Add dressing right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp
Chill the dressing first for the best flavor