Sacramento Fruit Bowl
A vibrant and refreshing fruit salad featuring a variety of seasonal fruits and a delicate citrus syrup, perfect for summer gatherings and light, healthy snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart saucepan, combine water, sugar, lemon juice, anise seed, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat for 15 minutes or until the mixture becomes a light syrup.
- Refrigerate the syrup until it is cool.
- Peel all fruits and cut into bite-sized chunks.
- In a large bowl, combine all the cut-up fruits.
- Pour the chilled syrup through a strainer over the fruit.
- Cover and refrigerate until well chilled before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance sweetness, consider using agave syrup or honey as a substitute for sugar. When cutting fruits, try to use a sharp knife to ensure clean cuts. For a bit of zest, add a pinch of grated ginger to the syrup. Ensure the syrup is completely cooled before pouring it over the fruit to prevent wilting.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sacramento Fruit Bowl as a refreshing dessert or alongside a light brunch. It pairs beautifully with Good Ole Lemonade for a perfect summer meal. Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped mint for freshness or serving it with a dollop of yogurt for a nutritious breakfast option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruit bowl in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The syrup can also be refrigerated separately. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture of the fruits. When ready to serve, mix the fruits gently to redistribute the syrup.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sacramento Fruit Bowl contains roughly 219 calories, with 3g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1181mg per serving (51% 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 other fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. The key is to use fruits that are ripe and flavorful for the best results.
How long can I keep the fruit bowl in the fridge?
The fruit bowl is best enjoyed within 48 hours of preparation. After that, the fruits may start to lose their texture and freshness. If stored properly, the syrup can last longer.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this recipe is 100% vegan as it contains no animal products. It’s a delightful option for anyone looking for vegan recipes that are refreshing and fulfilling.
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).