Tang Fruit Salad
A vibrant, fruity salad featuring pineapple, oranges, cherries, bananas, and grapes, combined with tangy flavored pudding, perfect for parties, picnics, or refreshing summer treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook vanilla pudding in 2 cups of the drained fruit juice, adding a little water if necessary to make 2 cups.
- Add the Tang to the cooking pudding and stir well.
- Allow the pudding to cool completely.
- Add drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, maraschino cherries, sliced bananas, grapes, and apples to the cooled pudding.
- Mix gently to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider using fresh fruit instead of canned options. If you want a healthier twist, substitute regular vanilla pudding with a sugar-free version. You can also mix in some shredded coconut or chopped nuts for added texture. Remember to slice the bananas just before serving to prevent browning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tang Fruit Salad as a refreshing side at barbecues or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a light protein dish like grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it as a dessert alongside Vanilla No-Bake Cookies for a delightful finish to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fruits may release some juices, so give it a gentle stir before serving. This salad does not freeze well due to the fruit's texture, so it's best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tang Fruit Salad contains roughly 484 calories, with 2g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It also contributes 10g 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 make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fruit salad a few hours in advance. Just make sure to keep it covered in the refrigerator so the fruits stay fresh and crisp until serving time.
What other fruits can I add to this salad?
You can customize this salad with fruits like strawberries, kiwi, or peaches. Just ensure that any added fruits are well-drained to maintain the salad's texture. Explore different combinations based on seasonal availability.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
The recipe can be adapted for vegan diets by using plant-based pudding mixes and ensuring all fruit juices are free from animal products. This makes it a delightful option for everyone at your gathering.
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).