Mary'S Fresh Fruit Salad
A vibrant, refreshing fruit salad combining sweet grapes, melons, berries, and peaches, perfect for summer gatherings and health-conscious snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make sure that all fruit is completely ripe but not overripe.
- Remove grapes from stems, wash well, dry with paper towels, put into baggies and refrigerate.
- Cut honeydew melon in half, remove seeds, cut into 1 1/2 inch slices, remove rind, then cut into bite-sized pieces, and refrigerate in baggies.
- Do the same with cantaloupe.
- Squeeze lemon juice into a small bowl of water.
- Peel, core, and cut apples into large bite-sized pieces, dip into lemon water to prevent browning.
- Dry apples on paper towels, put into baggies, and refrigerate.
- Repeat the process with peaches or nectarines.
- Cut watermelon into large bite-sized pieces, removing the seed-filled core, and refrigerate in a baggie.
- Wash and dry strawberries carefully, ensuring they are completely dry, then put into baggies with a paper towel and refrigerate.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure all fruits are ripe but not overripe for the best flavor and texture. Substitute any seasonal fruits like berries or melons based on availability. For a twist, consider adding a drizzle of Low Calorie Salad Dressing to enhance the flavor profile. When preparing, wear gloves to keep your hands clean while handling the juicy fruits.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant fruit salad is perfect for warm weather gatherings and pairs beautifully with Cream Potatoes or a refreshing beverage. Consider serving it as a light dessert or a side dish at brunch. For a more filling option, add granola or yogurt to create a delightful parfait.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, consider layering the fruits with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Avoid freezing as it can change the texture of the fruit. Serve chilled for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Fresh Fruit Salad contains roughly 2026 calories, with 3g protein, 517g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (38% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A.
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 canned or frozen fruits instead of fresh?
While fresh fruits provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned or frozen fruits in a pinch. Just ensure they are unsweetened and drained well. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly, so it's best to serve them chilled and consumed quickly.
How can I prevent the apples from browning?
To prevent browning, dip the cut apples in lemon juice mixed with water, as outlined in the instructions. The acidity of the lemon helps slow down the oxidation process. Alternatively, use a citrus-based fruit preservative for longer-lasting results.
What variations can I make to this fruit salad?
You can customize this fruit salad by adding other fruits like blueberries, mango, or pineapple. For a unique twist, try incorporating herbs like mint for freshness. If you're looking for a vegan treat, this salad is naturally vegan-friendly and can be paired with other vegan recipes for a wholesome meal.
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).