Aunt Mary Lee'S Fruit Salad
A vibrant and refreshing fruit salad featuring strawberries, bananas, pineapple, mandarin oranges, and peach pie filling, perfect for gatherings and light desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges, saving the juice.
- Slice bananas and marinate in the reserved juice for about 5 to 10 minutes, then drain.
- Mix the drained fruits and peach pie filling in a bowl together.
- Chill the fruit salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, you can substitute fresh strawberries for frozen ones for added texture. If peaches aren't in season, consider using canned peaches instead. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or zest. This makes a great accompaniment to dishes like Baked Bluefish or pairs beautifully with Butter Shortbread Cookies as a refreshing dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fruit salad as a light dessert or a vibrant side dish at barbecues and potlucks. It complements savory dishes well and can be a refreshing addition to breakfast alongside yogurt or oatmeal. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with mint leaves or serving in individual cups for parties.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fruit may release some juice, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing as the texture of the fruits will change. Enjoy it cold, as the flavors meld together after chilling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mary Lee'S Fruit Salad contains roughly 383 calories, with 1g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh fruit can add a wonderful texture and flavor to the salad. Just make sure to choose ripe bananas, strawberries, and peaches. If using fresh pineapple, you may want to add a little sugar to balance the tartness, similar to the sweetness found in canned fruit.
How long can I keep this fruit salad?
The fruit salad can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh to maintain the vibrant flavors and textures. If you're making it ahead of time, consider adding bananas just before serving to prevent browning.
What can I add to this recipe to make it more colorful?
You can add a variety of colorful fruits such as kiwi, blueberries, or raspberries for a pop of color. Additionally, incorporating chopped apples or grapes can enhance both the visual appeal and flavor profile. Browse more American recipes for inspiration on seasonal fruit combinations!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).