Tossed Fruit Salad
A refreshing tossed fruit salad featuring citrus segments, banana slices, and crisp greens, all coated in a tangy tarragon vinaigrette. Perfect for light lunches or outdoor gatherings, it combines vibrant flavors and textures to delight the palate and add a healthy touch to any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, tarragon vinegar, and water in a saucepan.
- Heat and stir until the sugar dissolves, then cool.
- Stir in celery salt, paprika, and dry mustard.
- Add salad oil slowly in a stream, beating with an electric mixer until thick.
- Cover and chill the dressing.
- Peel and section the oranges and grapefruit, reserving the juices.
- Peel and slice the banana.
- Brush the banana slices with the reserved citrus juices.
- Set aside.
- In a large salad bowl, combine torn iceberg lettuce and escarole.
- Arrange orange, grapefruit, banana, and other fruit in a circle atop the greens.
- Pour the chilled dressing over the salad.
- Toss gently to coat the fruit and vegetables.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Tossed Fruit Salad, consider using fresh herbs like mint or basil as a garnish. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute the sugar with honey or agave nectar. For a twist, try adding other fruits such as berries or apples. This recipe can also be adapted for vegan recipes by ensuring the dressing ingredients are plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Tossed Fruit Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or picnics. It pairs beautifully with dishes like grilled chicken or fish. For a delightful dessert, consider serving it alongside Quick Microwaved Streuseled Apples for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the fruits fresh, avoid mixing them with the dressing until ready to serve. If the salad becomes soggy, you can add more fresh greens or nuts for extra crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tossed Fruit Salad contains roughly 205 calories, with 4g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. It also contributes 12g 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 other types of vinegar in the dressing?
Yes, you can substitute tarragon vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly, so adjust other ingredients accordingly to balance the flavors.
What other fruits can I add to this salad?
Feel free to experiment with a variety of fruits! Berries, kiwi, pineapple, or even peaches can add different textures and flavors. Just ensure that the fruits you choose complement each other and are in season for the best taste.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make your Tossed Fruit Salad more filling, consider adding protein-rich ingredients like nuts, seeds, or even yogurt. Chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds can provide a nice crunch, while a dollop of yogurt can add creaminess and extra flavor.
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).