This delicious apple fruit salad is packed with crunchy apples and a splash of citrus. It’s fresh, colorful, and perfect as a side dish or a light snack!
Whenever I make this salad, my family can’t resist munching on it. It’s like a party in a bowl! Plus, it takes just minutes to whip up, making it super easy to enjoy anytime.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I love using a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Fuji and Granny Smith. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced apples are also a good choice. Just keep in mind that some varieties brown faster than others, so add them to the dressing quickly.
Grapes: Red and green grapes add great color and sweetness. You can switch to other fruits like diced strawberries or blueberries if you like. Just make sure to use fresh fruit that’s in season for the best flavor.
Mandarin Oranges: Canned mandarin oranges are super convenient, but fresh oranges work well too. Simply segment them and toss them in. If oranges aren’t available, consider using canned pineapple chunks for a different twist.
Nuts: I usually go for pecans for their rich flavor but walnuts are a great alternative. If nut allergies are a concern, you can skip them or replace them with toasted pumpkin seeds for a crunch.
How Do You Keep Apples from Browning?
To keep your apple slices looking fresh and appealing, it’s important to treat them right. First, make sure to add lemon juice to your apples right after cutting them. This acidity helps prevent browning. Here’s how:
- Wash, core, and dice your apples into a large mixing bowl.
- Immediately drizzle lemon juice over the diced apples, tossing gently to coat all surfaces.
- Proceed with your salad, and your apples will stay crisp and bright!
Another option is to soak the sliced apples in a solution of water and lemon juice for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
Delicious Apple Fruit Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large apples (mixed varieties), cored and diced
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup green seedless grapes, halved
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted optional)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fruit salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to chill. In no time, you’ll have a refreshing, colorful dish that’s ready to delight your taste buds!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
Start by washing the apples thoroughly. Once clean, core and dice them into bite-sized pieces. Place the diced apples in a large mixing bowl so they’re ready for the rest of the ingredients.
2. Add the Grapes and Oranges:
Next, take your halved red and green grapes and add those to the bowl with the diced apples. Don’t forget the drained mandarin orange segments! Toss them all together gently to mix.
3. Mix in the Extras:
Now it’s time to add some fun texture and color! Sprinkle in the pomegranate seeds and your choice of chopped nuts. The nuts can be toasted for extra flavor, but it’s totally optional.
4. Create the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, fresh lemon juice, and optional orange zest. This dressing will add sweetness and a nice zing to your salad!
5. Combine and Chill:
Pour the honey-lemon dressing over the fruit mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the fruits are well coated. Now, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and put it in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the fruit salad out of the fridge. You can garnish it with a few extra pomegranate seeds or nuts on top for added crunch and a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your crisp, sweet, and citrusy fruit salad!
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits such as diced strawberries, sliced bananas, or even cubed pineapple. Just ensure your chosen fruits are fresh and complement the flavors of the salad.
How Long Does This Fruit Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your apple fruit salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it will last in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The apples may brown slightly, so it’s best to eat it within a day for optimal freshness.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. If you’re concerned about browning, add the lemon juice to the apples right after cutting them to help preserve their color.
What Can I Substitute for Honey if I Want it Vegan?
If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Both will add a lovely sweetness to the salad without compromising flavor!