Fruit And Nut Salad
A vibrant and refreshing fruit and nut salad featuring sweet pineapple, crunchy almonds and filberts, and colorful maraschino cherries. Perfect for light lunches or festive gatherings, this dish combines tropical flavors with a delightful crunch, appealing to those seeking a healthy, eye-catching, and tasty treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the rind and the eyes from the pineapple, then cut the flesh into small pieces, rejecting the hard core.
- Blanch the almonds and filberts by pouring boiling water over them and allowing them to stand for a few minutes, then remove the skins.
- Chop the blanched nuts finely and add to the pineapple pieces.
- Pile the mixture in little heaps on lettuce leaves, cover with dressing, and decorate with maraschino cherries.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding other nuts like walnuts or pecans if you prefer. You can also replace maraschino cherries with fresh berries for a healthier option. Make sure to choose a ripe pineapple for maximum sweetness; it should yield slightly to pressure. If you're short on time, canned pineapple can be used but drain it well before mixing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad on a platter lined with crisp lettuce leaves for an attractive presentation. It pairs beautifully with a light vinaigrette or yogurt dressing. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken or fish. This dish also makes a refreshing side for summer barbecues or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the nuts from becoming soggy, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, you can combine the ingredients and chill them before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit And Nut Salad contains roughly 105 calories, with 1g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 3g 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 other fruits in this salad?
Absolutely! You can add other fruits like mango, strawberries, or grapes for added flavor and variety. Just ensure that the fruits are ripe and complement the pineapple well. This flexibility allows you to customize the salad to your taste and seasonal availability.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, consider adding quinoa or couscous as a base. This will provide additional texture and nutrients. You could also incorporate some diced chicken or tofu for protein, making it a more complete meal while still keeping it fresh and vibrant.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this Fruit And Nut Salad is suitable for a vegan diet as it contains no animal products. Ensure that any dressing you choose is also vegan-friendly. This salad is a great option for gatherings and can be enjoyed by guests with various dietary preferences.
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).