Soupette Salad(Pasta Fruit Salad)
A colorful, sweet pasta fruit salad combining cherries, pineapple, and mandarin oranges with a creamy topping, perfect for gatherings and family desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta as directed on the package.
- Drain the pasta and let it cool.
- Drain and cut up the maraschino cherries.
- Drain and save the juice from the pineapple and mandarin oranges.
- Mix the pineapple juice, orange juice, sugar, eggs, flour, and salt together and cook until thickened.
- Cool the mixture and then add it to the cooked pasta.
- The next day, add the fruits and Cool Whip to the salad.
- Serve and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for Cool Whip. You can also use fresh fruits like diced strawberries or blueberries instead of canned ones for a fresher taste. If you prefer, swap acini de pepe pasta with couscous for a unique texture. Make sure to cool the pasta completely to prevent the salad from becoming mushy.
Serving Suggestions
This Pasta Fruit Salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or shrimp for a light meal. Serve it as a side dish at barbecues or picnics, or enjoy it as a refreshing lunch option on a warm day. Garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta salad may thicken as it sits; you can add a splash of fruit juice or a dollop of yogurt when serving to refresh its consistency. Avoid freezing, as the texture will change significantly after thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soupette Salad(Pasta Fruit Salad) contains roughly 602 calories, with 9g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1079mg per serving (47% 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, this salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the point of adding the fruits and Cool Whip. Store it in the refrigerator overnight and add the fruits just before serving to maintain their texture.
What can I substitute for acini de pepe pasta?
If acini de pepe pasta is unavailable, you can use orzo or small shell pasta as alternatives. Both options will provide a similar texture and work well with the fruit and creamy dressing.
Can I use sugar substitutes in this recipe?
Yes, you can use sugar substitutes like Stevia or erythritol. However, be sure to check the conversion ratios, as some sugar substitutes are sweeter than regular sugar, and adjust the quantity accordingly to taste.
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).