Ruth'S Frozen Fruit Salad
A refreshing frozen fruit salad combining sweetened condensed milk, cherry pie filling, mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, and nuts. Creamy, fruity, and crunchy, it’s perfect for parties, picnics, or family gatherings. Serve chilled for a cool treat that appeals to all ages and tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and cherry pie filling.
- Add drained mandarin oranges and crushed pineapple, then fold in nuts.
- Gently stir in Cool Whip until well blended.
- Spread the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Cover and freeze until firm.
- Remove from freezer 15 minutes before serving.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider folding in a little extra whipped topping or using a flavored whipped cream. You can substitute the nuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. For added flavor, try incorporating diced bananas or maraschino cherries. Ensure the fruit is well-drained to avoid excess liquid, which can make the salad icy when frozen.
Serving Suggestions
This frozen fruit salad is perfect as a refreshing dessert on a hot day. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a colorful addition to a potluck spread. It pairs beautifully with Sweet And Sour Meat Loaf, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Garnish with additional chopped nuts or a sprig of mint for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two months. To serve, let the salad thaw in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cutting, as it will be too hard to slice when frozen. Avoid refreezing once it has been thawed to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruth'S Frozen Fruit Salad contains roughly 391 calories, with 6g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). 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 use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, fresh fruit can be used, but you'll need to ensure that it is well-drained and chopped into small pieces. Keep in mind that fresh fruit may affect the texture and freezing time of the salad. For best results, consider using fruits that freeze well, like berries or diced peaches.
How long does this fruit salad take to freeze?
The fruit salad typically takes about 4 to 6 hours to freeze completely, depending on your freezer settings. It's best to prepare it the night before serving to ensure it's firm and ready to cut. If you're short on time, you can freeze it in smaller containers for quicker freezing.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this frozen fruit salad is suitable for vegetarian diets as it contains no meat products. It's a delightful vegetarian dessert option that can be enjoyed by all. Just ensure that the sweetened condensed milk used is vegetarian-friendly, as some brands may include gelatin.
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).