Low-Fat Salad
A light and refreshing fruit salad with tropical flavors, combining pineapple, mandarin oranges, banana, and grapes. Accented with mini marshmallows, coconut, and almonds, then folded with creamy vanilla yogurt. Perfect as a healthy dessert or snack, suitable for casual gatherings or family treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the pineapple and mandarin oranges.
- Combine all the fruit, marshmallows, coconut, and almonds in a large bowl.
- Fold in the vanilla yogurt until evenly mixed.
- Chill the salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries as substitutes for the canned varieties. If you're looking to reduce sugar further, opt for unsweetened yogurt. To enhance the texture, try toasting the almonds lightly before adding them to the salad. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Lo-Calorie Dip for a complete healthy meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light dessert. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be a delightful addition to a brunch spread alongside a Fresh Fruit Tray. For a fun twist, consider serving it in individual cups for a potluck or picnic.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fruits may release some juice, but the salad will still taste great. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fruits and yogurt may change. To refresh the salad before serving, give it a gentle stir.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Salad contains roughly 834 calories, with 17g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (105% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (70% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 648mg per serving (28% 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 this salad a few hours in advance. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until serving to maintain freshness. However, it’s best to add the yogurt just before serving to prevent the fruits from becoming too soggy.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make this salad vegan, simply substitute the vanilla yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative. There are many delicious options available made from almond, coconut, or soy that will work well with the flavors of the fruit.
What can I use instead of coconut?
If you're not a fan of coconut or have an allergy, you can use chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. Alternatively, some shredded carrot can add sweetness and texture while keeping the salad light and refreshing.
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).