This colorful apple fruit salad is packed with crunchy apple chunks, refreshing citrus, and a touch of sweetness. It’s a perfect treat for any season, brightening up your plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: The mix of red and green apples gives this salad a great flavor contrast. If you’re in a pinch, any variety will work. I often use Honeycrisp for sweetness and Fuji for crunch!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a tropical twist, but you can use canned pineapple in juice if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to drain it well. If you prefer other fruits, mango or berries work nicely too.
Cranberries: Cranberries add a tartness that balances the sweetness. If you can’t find fresh cranberries, dried ones can be a good substitute, just be mindful of their extra sweetness!
Walnuts: Crunchy walnuts give texture, but feel free to swap in pecans or almonds. For nut-free, pumpkin seeds are a great alternative.
Greek Yogurt: I love using Greek yogurt for creaminess, but if you’re looking for a vegan option, try coconut yogurt or a dairy-free creamy dressing!
How Do I Make Sure My Apples Stay Fresh and Crisp?
To keep your apples from browning, add lemon juice as mentioned in the recipe. It not only adds flavor but helps maintain their lovely color. Here are some extra tips:
- Wash and cut apples just before mixing them into the salad.
- Store your salad in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve to keep the apples crisp.
Also, ensure to toss the apples with the dressing right before serving if you’re preparing it ahead of time!
Delicious Apple Fruit Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fruits:
- 2 large red apples, cored and diced (keep the skin on)
- 2 large green apples, cored and diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (optional)
Nuts & Dressing:
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or your favorite creamy dressing
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Garnish:
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious apple fruit salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. It’s quick to make, and the chilling time allows the flavors to blend perfectly. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
Start by washing the apples to remove any dirt. Core and dice the apples into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on for added color and texture. This also makes it easier to prepare the salad quickly!
2. Combine the Fruits:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the diced red apples, green apples, pineapple chunks, and optionally, the cranberries. This mixture is already looking colorful and delicious!
3. Add the Crunch:
Next, sprinkle the chopped walnuts into the fruit mixture. They’ll add a delightful crunch and flavor contrast to the sweet fruit. Gently stir to combine.
4. Mix Up the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and lemon juice until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing will add a nice flavor while keeping the salad moist.
5. Dress the Salad:
Pour the yogurt dressing over the fruit and nuts. Gently toss everything together, making sure every piece of fruit is coated in that yummy dressing. Be careful not to mush the apples!
6. Garnish and Chill:
Transfer the salad to your serving bowl and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a lovely touch. Place the salad in the refrigerator and chill for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld and stay crisp.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, serve the salad cold as a refreshing snack or side dish. Enjoy your fresh, crisp, and colorful apple fruit salad!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the fruit based on your preferences or what’s in season. Berries, grapes, or even peach chunks can be excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
How Do I Keep My Apples from Browning?
To prevent browning, toss the diced apples in lemon juice as mentioned in the recipe. This not only keeps them looking fresh but also adds a nice tangy flavor!
Is This Salad Vegan-Friendly?
Yes! To make the salad vegan, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the apples crisp, it’s best to consume the salad sooner rather than later!
