Italian Fruit Salad
A refreshing Italian fruit salad with sweet pineapple, mandarin oranges, cherries, and a creamy, citrus-flavored sauce, perfect for summer gatherings and light desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook soupettes according to directions, then rinse and cool.
- In a pan, bring to a boil the juice from pineapple and mandarin oranges, sugar, flour, eggs, salt, and lemon juice, making a gravy-like mixture.
- Mix in the cooked soupettes and let the salad refrigerate overnight to meld flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries alongside the canned fruits. If you want a lighter version, swap Cool Whip for Greek yogurt. For added crunch, toss in some chopped nuts. Ensure the soupettes are well-rinsed and cooled to prevent them from becoming mushy in the salad. This dish is a delightful addition to summer gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Fruit Salad is perfect for brunch or as a refreshing dessert. Pair it with grilled meats or serve it alongside a light pasta dish like May To September Pasta for a complete meal. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves. It also makes a delightful side for picnics or potlucks, bringing a touch of color to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fruits and soupettes may change. Serve chilled, and give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Fruit Salad contains roughly 719 calories, with 12g protein, 153g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), iron (24% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 549mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
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 fruits instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh fruits like strawberries, peaches, or kiwi can be used for a more vibrant flavor. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness as needed, since fresh fruits can vary in ripeness. Incorporating fresh fruits will also enhance the texture of the salad.
Is this salad suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Italian Fruit Salad is vegetarian-friendly. All the ingredients used, including soupettes and fruits, are plant-based. If you want to make it vegan, substitute the Cool Whip with a plant-based whipped topping and omit the eggs from the gravy mixture.
How can I make this salad more festive for a party?
To make your fruit salad more festive, consider adding a splash of liqueur like Amaretto or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost. You can also serve it in a hollowed-out watermelon or pineapple for a stunning presentation. Adding edible flowers can also elevate its visual appeal.
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).