Easy Fruit Salad
A colorful and refreshing fruit salad that combines sweet canned fruit, fresh oranges and apples, crunchy pecans, and marshmallows for a delightful treat. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or casual gatherings, it offers a creamy, fruity flavor with a crunchy texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain juice from the fruit cocktail.
- Mix all the fruit, pecans, and marshmallows in a large bowl.
- Add mayonnaise gradually and stir until moistened and well combined.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding fresh berries or a splash of citrus juice to enhance the flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan alternative. Chopped nuts can be swapped with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. This fruit salad pairs beautifully with Apple Blossom Punch for a delightful summer gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fruit salad chilled as a side dish for barbecues or brunches. It complements savory dishes like Sweet And Sour Kielbasa perfectly. For an added touch, garnish with mint leaves or serve in individual cups for a festive presentation. This dish is also great for potlucks or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fruit may release juices, so it's best to keep it separate from the dressing if possible. If the salad appears dry after storage, you can add a bit more mayonnaise or yogurt before serving to revive its creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Fruit Salad contains roughly 638 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 70g fat.
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 fruit cocktail?
Absolutely! Fresh fruit can be a great alternative, but make sure to choose fruits that are in season for the best flavor. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and mix them in the same way as the canned fruit. Keep in mind that fresh fruit may not have the same sweetness, so you might want to adjust your mayonnaise or add a drizzle of honey.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this fruit salad vegan, simply replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based yogurt or vegan mayo. This will provide a similar creaminess without any animal products. Additionally, ensure that the fruit cocktail does not contain any non-vegan ingredients.
What can I do if I don't have pecans?
If you don't have pecans, feel free to substitute with any other nuts you have on hand, such as walnuts or almonds. For a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well too, adding a nice crunch to the salad without compromising on flavor.
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).