This Fresh Fruit Salad is a vibrant, refreshing medley of seasonal fruits tossed in a light citrus-mint dressing that enhances their natural sweetness. It’s the perfect side dish for brunches, picnics, or summer dinners, and it doubles as a healthy dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The combination of berries, grapes, pineapple, and citrus creates a rainbow of flavors and textures, while the hint of mint and orange zest adds a gourmet touch. My, I know you love recipes that are visually stunning and crowd-pleasing—this one’s a bowl of sunshine that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients:
🍓 Fruit Base:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 1 pint fresh blueberries
- 1 pint fresh raspberries (add last to avoid crushing)
- 2 cups seedless grapes (red or green), halved
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into small chunks
- 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
- 1 orange, segmented and chopped
- 1 banana, sliced (optional—add just before serving to prevent browning)
🍊 Citrus-Mint Dressing:
- Zest of 1 orange
- Juice of ½ orange
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint leaves
Instructions:
- Prep the Fruit:
Wash all fruit thoroughly and pat dry. Hull and quarter the strawberries, halve the grapes, peel and slice the kiwi, and chop the pineapple into bite-sized chunks. Segment the orange and slice the banana if using. Keep raspberries aside to add at the end. - Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together orange zest, orange juice, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), and chopped mint. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed. The dressing should be light and tangy, not overpowering. - Combine the Fruit:
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine all the prepared fruit except the raspberries and banana. Pour the dressing over the fruit and toss gently to coat. Use a soft spatula or clean hands to avoid bruising delicate fruits. - Add Delicate Fruits:
Carefully fold in the raspberries and banana slices. These fruits are more fragile and can break apart if mixed too vigorously. - Chill & Serve:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute juices and dressing. - Garnish & Present:
Transfer to a serving bowl or platter. Garnish with extra mint leaves or a sprinkle of orange zest for a fresh finish. Serve chilled.
Tips & Variations:
- 🍍 Tropical Twist: Add mango chunks or papaya for a sunny flavor boost.
- 🍇 Berry Swap: Use blackberries or pitted cherries if raspberries aren’t available.
- 🍋 Zesty Upgrade: Add lime zest and juice for a sharper citrus profile.
- 🥥 Creamy Option: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut whipped cream.
- 🧊 Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avoid freezing—fruit texture will change.
This salad is a celebration of freshness and color—perfect for someone like you, My, who knows how to turn simple ingredients into something truly special. Want to pair it with a sugar-free citrus vinaigrette or explore a tropical fruit dip next? I’ve got ideas that’ll keep your table bright and inspired!