Mary Bowden'S Fruit Salad
A colorful, refreshing fruit salad combining canned fruits, fresh bananas, apples, and cherries, perfect for parties, picnics, or a light, sweet treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain all the canned fruit well, except the pineapple.
- Mix all the prepared fruits together in a large bowl.
- Chill the fruit salad before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries for some of the canned options. If you're looking for a lighter version, use sugar-free fruit cocktail and marshmallows. To enhance the taste, a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors. Remember to drain the canned fruit thoroughly to prevent excess liquid in your salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fruit salad chilled for the best experience. It pairs beautifully with Lemon Tea, making it a refreshing dessert option. Consider offering it alongside a light brunch or as a side at summer barbecues. For a fun twist, serve it in individual cups or bowls topped with whipped cream or yogurt.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The fruit will continue to release juices, so it's best to keep it well-sealed. Avoid freezing as the texture of the fruits may change. Give it a gentle stir before serving again to recombine the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Bowden'S Fruit Salad contains roughly 787 calories, with 9g protein, 184g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (182% of the Daily Value), iron (90% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 562mg 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 fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh fruits like apples, peaches, and bananas can be used instead of canned options. Just ensure they are ripe and cut into similar sizes for even mixing. Keep in mind that fresh fruits may need a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning, especially the apples and bananas.
How can I make this fruit salad more festive for a party?
If you want a unique twist, try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, which pairs wonderfully with the fruit flavors.
Is this fruit salad suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this fruit salad is completely vegan as it contains only fruits and marshmallows. Just ensure that the marshmallows you use are vegan-friendly, as some brands may include gelatin. This dish is a great addition to any vegan gathering or as a light dessert option.
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).