Sugar And Fat-Free Fruit Salad
A refreshing, fat-free fruit salad combining canned fruits with sugar-free gelatin and pudding, perfect for a light, health-conscious dessert suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the mandarin oranges.
- Heat a cup of juice from the canned fruits to boiling.
- Add the hot juice to a bowl with the sugar-free Jell-O.
- Cool by adding the rest of the fruit juice.
- Add the canned fruits to the mixture.
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar-free vanilla pudding with orange juice to make a paste.
- Combine the pudding mixture with the fruit.
- Slice 2 bananas and add them to the salad.
- Refrigerate the salad for several hours or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more colorful fruit salad, consider adding fresh berries or chopped apples. If you want to substitute any canned fruit, opt for fresh fruits like peaches or strawberries, adjusting the sweetness to taste. To enhance flavor, a splash of lemon or lime juice can brighten the dish. This salad pairs beautifully with Cabbage Medley for a refreshing meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fruit salad as a light dessert or a side dish at potlucks and family gatherings. It’s particularly refreshing alongside grilled meats or with a brunch spread. For a festive touch, consider serving it in individual cups or bowls. It also pairs well with M & M Holiday Party Cookies for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The fruit may release some juice, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fruits will change when thawed. Serve chilled for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sugar And Fat-Free Fruit Salad contains roughly 86 calories, with 1g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% 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 add fresh fruit to this salad?
Yes, adding fresh fruit like bananas, strawberries, or kiwi can enhance the flavor and texture of the salad. Just ensure any fresh fruit is added just before serving to prevent browning, especially bananas.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This fruit salad is vegan-friendly as it uses only fruit and plant-based ingredients. Just ensure that the specific brands of Jell-O and pudding used are vegan, as some may contain gelatin.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the salad?
If you prefer a sweeter salad, consider adding a splash of agave syrup or honey (if not vegan). Alternatively, you can use ripe bananas or sweeter fruits to naturally enhance the sweetness without added sugars.
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).