Honey-Lemon Fruit Salad
A refreshing honey-lemon fruit salad featuring pineapple, pears, and oranges, lightly dressed with honey, lemon juice, and poppy seeds. Perfect for a light, sweet, and tangy treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine pineapple chunks, pears, and oranges in a bowl; toss gently and set aside.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of the pineapple juice and the remaining ingredients in a jar.
- Cover tightly and shake vigorously.
- Pour the dressing over the fruit and toss gently.
- Cover and chill up to 24 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher flavor, choose ripe pears and juicy oranges. If you don’t have poppy seeds, chia seeds can be a great substitute. For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. You can also add nuts like Orange Glazed Pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Honey-Lemon Fruit Salad as a refreshing side at summer barbecues or as a light dessert. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. For a festive touch, consider adding mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be a delightful contrast to heavier meals.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fruit may become slightly softer over time, but the flavors will continue to meld. Avoid freezing the salad, as the texture of the fruit will be affected upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Honey-Lemon Fruit Salad contains roughly 374 calories, with 7g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 7g 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 canned fruit instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned fruit, but be sure to choose options without added sugar for a healthier choice. Drain them well before mixing to avoid excess liquid in the salad.
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the fruit and dressing separately up to 24 hours in advance. Combine them just before serving to keep the fruit fresh and prevent it from becoming mushy.
What other fruits work well in this salad?
You can add a variety of fruits like berries, apples, or grapes for more color and flavor. Just ensure that the fruits are ripe and complement the honey-lemon dressing for a cohesive taste.
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).