Layered Fruit-Cheddar Salad
A refreshing layered fruit and cheese salad featuring a creamy honey-cheddar mixture paired with fresh strawberries, peaches, and shredded lettuce, perfect for brunch or light gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the softened cream cheese and honey, mixing until well blended. Stir in the sour cream.
- Chill the cream cheese mixture.
- Combine shredded lettuce with shredded mild Cheddar cheese.
- In a large bowl, layer the lettuce mixture, peach slices, strawberry slices, grapes, and the cream cheese mixture.
- Chill several hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also substitute the strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to add some crunch, try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. Make sure to let the cream cheese mixture chill thoroughly for better flavor integration.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect for picnics or potlucks and pairs beautifully with the Blueberry Bran Muffins. Serve it as a light lunch or alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for added color and flavor, or serve with a side of crusty bread to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some of its crispness over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you need to reassemble, simply layer the ingredients again for serving, as the components can separate during storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Fruit-Cheddar Salad contains roughly 457 calories, with 19g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 540mg per serving (23% 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture and the salad layers a few hours in advance. Just be sure to keep the layers separate until you're ready to serve to maintain freshness and texture.
What fruits can I use besides peaches and strawberries?
You can easily customize this salad with your favorite fruits. Consider using bananas, kiwi, or even pineapple for a tropical twist. Just ensure the fruits are ripe and not overly juicy to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Is this salad suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Layered Fruit-Cheddar Salad is completely vegetarian. With its combination of fruits, cheese, and creamy dressing, it makes for a healthy and satisfying meal option for vegetarians.
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).