Festive Tossed Salad

1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
2 Tbs lemon juice
2 Tbs finely chopped onion
1/2 tsp salt
2/3 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp poppy seed
 
10 cups torn romaine (I use 1 bag of romaine hearts)
1 cup (4 oz) shredded Swiss cheese
1 apple, cored and cubed
1 pear, cored and cubed
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/2 to 1 cup chopped cashews
 
In a blender combine the sugar, vinegar, lemon juice, onion and salt.  Cover and process until blended.  With blender running gradually add oil.  Add poppy seed and blend. 

In a salad bowl combine other ingredients, except nuts.  Drizzle with dressing, add cashews, toss to coat.  Serve immediately.  8 to 10 servings..