Quick Cashew Slaw

This weekend, the weather was so pleasant that Christian and I spent the day cleaning up the backyard and planting a plethora of herbs, flowers and other greenery.  By the end of it, we wanted to enjoy our sprucing, but couldn't handle grilling a feast.  So, we kept it simple with good old wieners, green beans and coleslaw.  Stupidly, we forgot to buy coleslaw dressing.  So, we pivoted and got creative in the kitchen with on-hand ingredients.  And what do you know - the coleslaw turned out better than most of the ones I buy in the store anyway.  Below is our concoction for Quick Cashew Slaw.  It's bright and tangy, with a hint of sweet heat and a satisfying crunch.

Quick Cashew Slaw

1 Bag of Shredded Veggies (cabbage, carrots, etc.)
1 Green Onion, thinly sliced
2 T. Cilantro, chopped
Handful of Salted Cashews

1/3 C. Mayonnaise
Juice of 1 Lime
2 T. Brown Sugar
2 T. Asian Sauce such as Szechwan (or, pinch of red pepper flakes)
Extra cilantro and cashews, to garnish

Toss the shredded veggies, onion, cilantro and cashews.  Set aside

In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, lime juice, brown sugar and heat.  Taste and season accordingly.  If you like more heat, add more spice.

Spoon half of the sauce over the veggies.  It's better to toss as you go so you don't end up with a slaw that's too wet.  Use as much sauce as you want.

To garnish, sprinkle with extra cilantro and cashews.

Savory Nuts

The next time you’re feeling peckish, give these savory nuts a crack.  This recipe takes a plain, ordinary handful of nuts to a trendy new level.  Light, flavorful and healthy, they are a flawless snack any time of the day.  For a more complete nosh, pair them with dried fruit, cheese and a sparkling aperitif for an impressive, delicious course.  

Savory Nuts

1 egg white

1 t. Smoked paprika

1/8 t. Cayenne Pepper

1/4 t. onion powder

¼ t. chili powder

½ t. garlic

Salt

Dash of Pepper

2-3 C. Mixed Nuts

Preheat oven to 350. 

In a medium bowl, beat the egg white until stiff peaks form.  Gently fold in the spices and combine well.  Fold in the nuts and make sure they are evenly coated.  Spread the nuts onto a lined baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, or until the coating has hardened and browned lightly.   

*TIP:  This method of using an egg white is also how you would make the cinnamon-sugar pecans you find around the holidays.  Experiment with your own special blend of spices to make it personal.