Black Cherry Fruit Salad
A vibrant and refreshing fruit salad featuring sweet black cherries, pineapple, bananas, coconut, and crunchy walnuts, perfect for a light dessert or summer gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain juice from cherries and save.
- Mix the drained cherries, pineapple tidbits, coconut, and chopped walnuts in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the dressing with softened cream cheese.
- Add bananas to the salad just before serving and toss gently.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier dressing, consider blending the softened cream cheese with a bit of the reserved cherry juice. If fresh fruit is preferred, swap out canned cherries and pineapple for fresh versions. You can also use shredded unsweetened coconut for a more natural flavor. For added crunch, try substituting pecans or almonds for walnuts. This salad is versatile and can easily complement dishes like Spinach Quiche.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant fruit salad as a refreshing side dish at picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light dessert after a hearty meal. For a complete brunch spread, consider serving alongside items like 30 Minute Beef Stroganoff or Creamy Cheese Sauce for a delightful balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bananas may brown, so it's best to add them fresh just before serving. If the salad becomes too watery from the juices, simply drain excess liquid before serving again. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fruit will change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Black Cherry Fruit Salad contains roughly 739 calories, with 16g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cherries instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh black cherries would add a delicious twist. Just pit and chop them before adding to the salad. Keep in mind that the overall flavor might differ slightly, and you'll need to adjust the sweetness to taste.
How do I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Ensure that the canned fruit is packed in juice instead of syrup for a healthier option. You can also enhance the salad with additional fruits like strawberries or blueberries.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the fruit mixture a few hours ahead, but it's best to add the bananas just before serving to prevent browning. If making a day ahead, keep the salad covered in the refrigerator, but expect some liquid from the fruit to accumulate.
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).