Lo-Cal Fruit Salad
A refreshing, low-calorie fruit salad blending tropical and garden fruits with a light pudding dressing, perfect for a healthy snack or summer gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the canned fruits and mix them together in a large bowl.
- In a separate container, mix the juice from the cans with the pudding mix until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add some of the reserved fruit juice or water to thin it out.
- Pour the juice and pudding mixture over the mixed fruit and gently toss to combine.
- Refrigerate the fruit salad for at least 3 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness. You can substitute any canned fruit with your favorites or seasonal fresh fruit like kiwi or pineapple. If you want to reduce sugar, opt for unsweetened canned fruit or use fresh fruit instead. To enhance flavor, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can be a delightful addition.
Serving Suggestions
This Lo-Cal Fruit Salad is perfect as a light dessert or a refreshing side dish at picnics and barbecues. It pairs beautifully with Hawaiian Ribs(6 Servings) or a simple grilled chicken dish. Consider serving it in individual cups for a fun presentation at gatherings or brunches.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fruit may release more juice as it sits, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid freezing the salad, as the texture of the fruit will suffer when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Cal Fruit Salad contains roughly 92 calories, with 1g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh fruit can be a great substitute for canned options. Just make sure to use fruits that have a similar texture and sweetness, like diced apples, berries, or bananas. You may want to add a bit of sweetener or citrus juice to replicate the flavor of the reserved juices.
How can I make this fruit salad more filling?
To make this fruit salad more filling, consider adding some protein-rich ingredients. Chopped nuts or a scoop of yogurt can enhance the salad's nutrition and keep you satisfied longer. For a fun twist, you could also mix in some granola for added crunch.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this Lo-Cal Fruit Salad is naturally vegan, as it contains only fruits and pudding mix. Just ensure the pudding mix you use is dairy-free, as some brands may contain milk products. This makes for a light, healthy option that fits perfectly into vegan recipes.
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).