Easy Fruit Salad

There’s something wonderfully refreshing about a bowl of Easy Fruit Salad on a hot summer day. I remember the first time I made it; it was for a family picnic, and I wanted something light and flavorful that everyone could enjoy. As I tossed together a vibrant mix of fresh fruits, I could almost hear the excitement of my loved ones as they gathered around the table. The bright colors of the strawberries, blueberries, and grapes brought a smile to my face, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. This dish is more than just a salad; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty and a reminder of joyful moments spent with family and friends.

Recipe Ingredients for Easy Fruit Salad

When it comes to creating the perfect Easy Fruit Salad, the ingredients play a crucial role. Each fruit brings its own unique taste and texture, creating a harmonious blend that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Key players like strawberries and blueberries add sweetness, while grapes offer a satisfying crunch. Together, they form a vibrant display that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.

• 1 pound strawberries, hulled and sliced – Juicy and sweet, strawberries bring a lovely pop of color and flavor to the salad.
• 11 ounces blueberries – These tiny bursts of sweetness add a delightful tang that balances the other fruits.
• 3 cups red grapes – Crisp and refreshing, red grapes are perfect for adding texture and natural sweetness.
• 1 whole pineapple, sliced – Pineapple lends a tropical flair and a juicy bite that elevates the entire dish.
• 15 ounces mandarin oranges (1 can) – Their sweetness and easy-to-eat segments are a favorite among kids and adults alike.
• 2 Tablespoons instant vanilla pudding powder, not prepared – This adds a subtle creaminess and helps to bind the flavors together, creating a glaze.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of pure vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract – This optional ingredient adds a lovely nutty aroma that complements the fruit beautifully.

How to Prepare Easy Fruit Salad

Making Easy Fruit Salad is a breeze, and the best part is watching the colors and flavors come together. It’s an enjoyable process that can even involve the whole family. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dish!

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. You’ll need your freshly prepared strawberries, blueberries, grapes, pineapple, and mandarin oranges. Make sure everything is washed and ready to go.
2. In a large bowl, combine the strawberries, blueberries, grapes, pineapple, and mandarin oranges. Gently stir them together to mix well, being careful not to mash the fruit.
3. Next, sprinkle the instant vanilla pudding powder evenly over the fruit mixture. This step is key as it will later create that delicious glaze.
4. Now, add your vanilla extract and almond extract if you’re using it. These extracts will enhance the fruit flavors and add depth.
5. Using a spatula or a large spoon, gently fold the pudding powder and extracts into the fruit. Mix until everything is coated evenly, ensuring that the pudding powder starts to absorb the juices.
6. Once well combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate the salad for at least two hours, or better yet, overnight. This allows the juices to mingle with the pudding mix, creating a wonderful glaze.
7. When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir. You’ll notice how the juices have developed a light coating over the fruit, making it look even more enticing.
8. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual cups. For an added touch, you can garnish with fresh mint leaves or extra slices of strawberries on top.
9. Enjoy your Easy Fruit Salad as a refreshing snack, dessert, or side dish at your next gathering!

Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Easy Fruit Salad, you might want to mix things up a bit. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Try Exotic Fruits: Switch things up by adding tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, or passion fruit for a twist.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like mint or basil for a surprising flavor contrast that will elevate your salad.
• Add Crunch: Throw in some chopped nuts or granola to give the salad an interesting crunch and added nutrition.
• Yogurt Swirl: Serve the salad with a dollop of yogurt on top for a creamy enhancement.
• Dress It Up: Drizzle with honey or a citrus vinaigrette to add a new dimension to the flavor.
• Parfait Style: Layer the fruit salad with yogurt and granola in a glass for a beautiful breakfast parfait.

Perfect Pairings for Easy Fruit Salad

Serving Easy Fruit Salad is a delightful experience, and the possibilities are endless. Here are some perfect pairings and occasions to enjoy this refreshing dish:

• Barbecues and Picnics: This salad is a hit at outdoor gatherings, offering a refreshing contrast to grilled meats and savory dishes.
• Brunch Buffets: It’s a lovely addition to any brunch table, pairing wonderfully with pastries or pancakes.
• Light Luncheons: Serve it alongside sandwiches or wraps for a light and satisfying meal.
• Summer Parties: The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a fantastic centerpiece for summer celebrations.
• Breakfast Treat: Enjoy it as a quick breakfast option, served over yogurt and topped with granola.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.
• Seasonal Pairings: This salad shines in the summer but can be enjoyed year-round with the right fruits.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Easy Fruit Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, colors, and good times. With its vibrant mix of fruits, it’s a refreshing treat that appeals to everyone at any gathering. I encourage you to try making this salad—it’s simple, delicious, and a perfect way to enjoy the bounty of summer fruits. You won’t be disappointed!

Easy Fruit Salad

Craving something refreshing? This Easy Fruit Salad is bursting with vibrant flavors and delightful colors. Perfect for summer gatherings, it's an easy way to enjoy a healthy treat. Make it tonight for a refreshing twist!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 16 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound strawberries hulled and sliced
• 11 ounces blueberries
• 3 cups red grapes
• 1 whole pineapple sliced
• 15 ounces mandarin oranges (1 can)
• 2 Tablespoons instant vanilla pudding powder not prepared
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. You'll need your freshly prepared strawberries, blueberries, grapes, pineapple, and mandarin oranges. Make sure everything is washed and ready to go.
2. In a large bowl, combine the strawberries, blueberries, grapes, pineapple, and mandarin oranges. Gently stir them together to mix well, being careful not to mash the fruit.
3. Next, sprinkle the instant vanilla pudding powder evenly over the fruit mixture. This step is key as it will later create that delicious glaze.
4. Now, add your vanilla extract and almond extract if you’re using it. These extracts will enhance the fruit flavors and add depth.
5. Using a spatula or a large spoon, gently fold the pudding powder and extracts into the fruit. Mix until everything is coated evenly, ensuring that the pudding powder starts to absorb the juices.
6. Once well combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate the salad for at least two hours, or better yet, overnight. This allows the juices to mingle with the pudding mix, creating a wonderful glaze.
7. When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir. You’ll notice how the juices have developed a light coating over the fruit, making it look even more enticing.
8. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual cups. For an added touch, you can garnish with fresh mint leaves or extra slices of strawberries on top.
9. Enjoy your Easy Fruit Salad as a refreshing snack, dessert, or side dish at your next gathering!

Notes

• Tip 1: You can skip the vanilla pudding mix and extracts if you prefer to have a simple fruit salad that’s just tossed together. It will not have a glaze on it if you leave that off.
• Tip 2: The almond extract can be skipped, just replace it with more vanilla extract if you don’t like almond or someone has an allergy.
• Tip 3: This is great served with yogurt. A fun option is to make breakfast parfaits with it.
• Tip 4: If you use bananas or apples toss them with a splash of lemon juice before mixing them in the salad to prevent browning.
• Tip 5: Use fruit with contrasting colors for the best presentation.
• Tip 6: Chop fruit roughly the same size. It’s easier to eat this way and prettier in the bowl.
• Tip 7: Make sure you make it at least a few hours ahead of time because the juices from the fruit mix with the vanilla pudding mix and create a delicious glaze on the fruit.
• Tip 8: I would not recommend using frozen fruit in this recipe. Once the frozen fruit is thawed it is mushy and watery.
• Tip 9: Pop leftovers in the refrigerator and enjoy it the next day or pile it on top of some vanilla yogurt and add a little granola to it for breakfast!
• Tip 10: You’ll want to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days depending on how ripe your fruit was when you made it!

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Meet Rose Kelley

I’m happiest when I have dirt under my fingernails and fresh herbs in my hand. I bring a garden-to-table philosophy to our group. I’m always tossing handfuls of fresh basil or mint into our pots, looking for that pop of freshness. I love cooking alongside Maya to ensure our meals feel vibrant and alive. I participate in every step, from the initial chopping to the final taste test!