This creamy fruit salad is a dreamy blend of juicy fruits enveloped in a luscious vanilla-kissed dressing. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug from grandma’s kitchen—simple, comforting, and always a hit. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic, brunch, potluck, or just want something sweet and light after dinner, this salad delivers.
The magic lies in the balance: tart berries, sweet bananas, citrusy mandarins, and tropical pineapple chunks all come together in a velvety dressing made from sour cream (or Greek yogurt), honey, and vanilla. It’s creamy without being heavy, sweet without being cloying, and endlessly customizable.
📝 Ingredients:
For the Fruit Salad:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1 cup green grapes, halved
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments (canned, drained or fresh)
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 medium apple, chopped (tossed in lemon juice to prevent browning)
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange (optional but adds a citrusy lift)
👩🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Fruit
Wash all the fruit thoroughly. Hull and slice the strawberries, halve the grapes, and chop the apple. Slice the bananas just before mixing to keep them fresh. If using canned fruit, make sure it’s well-drained to avoid watering down the dressing.
Pro tip: Toss the chopped apple and banana slices in a teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent browning and preserve their fresh look.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, honey, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed—some fruits may be sweeter than others, so feel free to add a touch more honey if desired.
This dressing should be silky and slightly tangy, with a hint of vanilla warmth and citrus brightness.
Step 3: Combine the Fruit and Dressing
Place all the prepared fruit in a large mixing bowl. Pour the creamy dressing over the top and gently fold everything together using a spatula. Be careful not to mash the fruit—especially the bananas and berries. You want everything evenly coated but still intact.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to slightly thicken. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or a few mint leaves if you’re feeling fancy.
💡 Tips & Variations:
- Make it tropical: Add mango chunks, papaya, or shredded coconut.
- Add crunch: Toss in chopped pecans, walnuts, or granola just before serving.
- Go sugar-free: Use unsweetened Greek yogurt and skip the honey for a lighter version.
- Make ahead: Prep the fruit and dressing separately, then combine 1–2 hours before serving to keep everything fresh.
❤️ Why It Works:
This salad is a celebration of texture and flavor. The creamy dressing wraps around each piece of fruit like a velvet ribbon, enhancing their natural sweetness while adding a luxurious mouthfeel. It’s versatile, forgiving, and always a hit—whether you’re serving kids, adults, or anyone in between.
So go ahead, My—whip up a bowl of this creamy classic and let it be your edible invitation to joy. Want to pair it with a tropical drink or a light savory dish next? I’ve got ideas waiting in the wings.