This Fresh Fruit Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines a variety of seasonal fruits with a light citrus dressing. Perfect for breakfast, a healthy snack, or a side dish at gatherings, this salad bursts with natural sweetness and tangy flavors. The combination of juicy berries, tropical fruits, and a hint of mint makes it both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful fruit salad:
Fruit Selection
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 cup mango, diced
- 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
- 1 banana, sliced (optional)
- 1 orange, segmented
- 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
Citrus Dressing
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruits
- Wash all fruits thoroughly under cold water.
- Hull and slice the strawberries.
- Halve the grapes and dice the pineapple and mango.
- Peel and slice the kiwis and banana.
- Segment the orange and remove seeds from the pomegranate.
- Place all prepared fruits in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, honey, lime zest, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in the chopped mint leaves for a refreshing touch.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Pour the citrus dressing over the mixed fruits.
- Gently toss everything together to coat the fruits evenly.
- Let the salad sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the fruit salad to a serving dish or individual bowls.
- Garnish with extra mint leaves or a sprinkle of lime zest.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Tips for the Best Fruit Salad
- Choose ripe fruits for the best flavor and texture.
- Avoid overly juicy fruits that may make the salad watery.
- Add bananas last to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Chill before serving for a refreshing experience.
- Experiment with flavors by adding coconut flakes or chopped nuts.
This Fresh Fruit Salad is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the natural sweetness of fresh fruits. Whether enjoyed as a light dessert or a nutritious snack, it’s a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of the season! 🍓🥭🍊