Bright, refreshing, and bursting with natural sweetness, this Honey Lime Rainbow Fruit Salad is a must-have for any summer gathering. It’s a versatile side dish that takes full advantage of seasonal fruits, making it both delicious and visually stunning. You can easily substitute fruits based on what’s available or your personal preference.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 10
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: No cooking required, ready in just 15 minutes.
- Customizable: Swap out fruits with what’s in season or on hand.
- Healthy and Delicious: Naturally sweetened with honey, packed with vitamins.
- Perfect for Gatherings: A colorful and crowd-pleasing dish for cookouts or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, (chopped): Adds sweetness and color. Use raspberries as an alternative.
- 1 lb chopped fresh pineapple: Provides a juicy, tropical flavor. Canned pineapple can be used if fresh is unavailable.
- 12 oz fresh blueberries: Offers a burst of tartness and antioxidants. Use blackberries as a substitute.
- 12 oz red grapes, (sliced into halves): Brings sweetness and texture. Green grapes can replace red ones.
- 4 kiwis, (peeled and chopped): Adds a tangy kick. Swap with another citrus fruit if needed.
- 3 mandarin oranges*: Adds a sweet citrus note, or substitute with regular oranges.
- 2 bananas, (sliced (optional)): Provides creaminess and balance. Omit if not desired.
- 1/4 cup honey: Natural sweetener that enhances the fruit flavors. Agave syrup can be an alternative.
- 2 tsp lime zest ((zest of 2 medium limes)): Infuses a fresh citrus aroma and flavor.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lime juice: Balances the sweetness with tartness.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Gather all the fruit and begin by chopping the strawberries, pineapple, and kiwis into bite-sized pieces. Halve the grapes and peel the mandarin oranges. If using, slice the bananas last to prevent browning. Place all prepared fruit into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, lime zest, and lime juice. This dressing enhances the fruit’s natural flavors with a sweet-tart balance. Make sure the honey fully incorporates with the lime to evenly coat the fruit.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Pour the honey-lime dressing over the mixed fruits in the bowl. Gently toss the salad using large spoons to ensure each piece of fruit is lightly coated. Serve immediately for the best flavor and freshness. Refrigerate any leftovers promptly, although this salad is best enjoyed fresh.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this fruit salad ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the fruit fresh and vibrant. If necessary, you can prepare the dressing and chop the fruits (except bananas) a few hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator.
What other fruits can I add?
This salad is highly adaptable. Consider adding mango, pomegranate seeds, or even pears for variety. Adjust the amount based on what you remove or add.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The bananas may brown slightly, but the salad will still taste great.
