Lemony Fruit Dressing
A tangy, sweet lemon-flavored fruit dressing with marshmallows and mayonnaise, perfect for fruit salads or as a dip, offering a creamy, citrusy taste that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1-quart saucepan, combine sugar and flour.
- Stir in lemon peel, lemon juice, beaten egg, and marshmallows.
- Cook and stir over low heat until mixture thickens slightly and marshmallows melt.
- Allow the mixture to cool.
- Fold in mayonnaise.
- Cover and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter dressing, consider using Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can increase the sugar slightly or add honey. Ensure that you thoroughly beat the egg to avoid any lumps. For a vibrant twist, try adding a splash of orange juice or zest along with the lemon for a more complex flavor profile. This dressing pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dressing over a fresh fruit salad for a delightful and tangy complement. It also works wonderfully as a dip for fruit skewers or as a drizzle over a light dessert, like sponge cake or vanilla ice cream. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light dish like Cheese Straw Cookies for added crunch and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dressing may thicken as it chills; if this happens, whisk in a little water or additional lemon juice to reach your desired consistency. Never freeze this dressing, as the mayonnaise will separate upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemony Fruit Dressing contains roughly 206 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dressing up to a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it covered and refrigerated. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when served. Just give it a good stir before using to ensure a smooth consistency.
What fruits pair well with this dressing?
This lemony fruit dressing pairs well with a variety of fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, and kiwi. You can also use it with melons, like cantaloupe and honeydew, to enhance their sweetness. Experiment with seasonal fruits for the best results.
Is this dressing suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dressing is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. However, it does include an egg, so it is not vegan. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, you can try using a plant-based mayonnaise and a flaxseed meal egg substitute.
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).