The Perfect Summer Fruit Salad is your answer to a refreshing and vibrant dish that requires minimal effort but yields maximum flavor. This recipe is a symphony of fresh fruits brought together by a zesty dressing, perfect for hot days when you need something cool and light.

• Cuisine: American
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 6

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Healthy and Refreshing: Loaded with vitamins and natural sweetness, courtesy of fresh fruits.
• Customizable: Easy to adjust according to available fruits or personal preference.
• Perfect for Summer: Offers a cool and fresh taste, ideal for warm weather.

Ingredients

• ⅔ cup fresh orange juice: Acts as a sweet and tangy base for your dressing. If unavailable, use store-bought 100% orange juice.
• ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice: Adds acidity and contrast; fresh bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
• ⅓ cup packed brown sugar: Balances the acidity of the citrus juices with a touch of sweetness and depth.
• ½ teaspoon grated orange zest: Infuses the salad with intense citrus flavor. Substitute with a small pinch of dried zest if fresh is unavailable.
• ½ teaspoon grated lemon zest: Enhances the lemony notes naturally. Dried zest or lemon extract can be a substitute.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity to the dressing.
• 2 cups cubed fresh pineapple: Provides juiciness and tropical flair. Canned pineapple can be used, though fresh is preferable.
• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced: Contributes natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 3 kiwi fruit, peeled and sliced: Offers a tart contrast and beautiful green color.
• 3 bananas, sliced: Adds creaminess and a soft texture.
• 2 oranges, peeled and sectioned: Boosts the citrus theme and adds bursts of juiciness.
• 1 cup seedless grapes: Delivers a sweet crunch. Any variety you like will work.
• 2 cups blueberries: Enhance the salad with a burst of sweetness and color.

How to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, brown sugar, orange zest, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved. This dressing is the heart of your salad, bringing together the flavors of the fruits with a sweet-tangy balance.

Step 2: Mix the Fruits

In a large mixing bowl, add the pineapple, strawberries, kiwi, bananas, oranges, grapes, and blueberries. Toss them gently to distribute evenly. You’ll want to coat the fruits lightly so their individual flavors still shine.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Pour the prepared dressing over the mixed fruits and gently toss everything together until the fruits are well-coated. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or chill it for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and slice some of the sturdier fruits (like pineapple and grapes) a day ahead. Store them separately and combine them closer to serving time to keep the softer fruits, like bananas, looking fresh.

What other fruits can I add?

You can add whatever fruits are in season or available, such as mangoes, peaches, or raspberries. Just ensure you keep the portion balanced to avoid overpowering the salad’s flavor harmony.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be aware that some fruits, like bananas, may soften over time.