Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

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Thanksgiving Fruit Salad: A Fresh and Festive Dish

Introduction:

Add a refreshing and colorful touch to your Thanksgiving table with this Thanksgiving Fruit Salad. Bursting with seasonal fruits, crunchy nuts, and a creamy honey-citrus dressing, this dish balances the richness of traditional Thanksgiving fare. It’s a simple yet elegant side dish that doubles as a light dessert, perfect for celebrating the flavors of fall.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh apples, diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
  • 1 cup fresh pears, diced
  • 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries, halved (optional for a tart touch)
  • 1 cup mandarin orange segments (fresh or canned)
  • 1/2 cup pomegranate arils
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, toasted
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of cinnamon

Preparation Tips:

  1. Prevent Browning: Toss apples and pears in a little lemon juice before mixing to keep them fresh and vibrant.
  2. Customize Fruits: Swap in seasonal favorites like persimmons or figs for a unique twist.
  3. Toast Nuts: Lightly toast the nuts for added flavor and crunch.
  4. Dressing Consistency: Thin the dressing with more orange juice if you prefer a lighter coating.
  5. Make Ahead: Prepare the fruits and dressing separately and combine just before serving.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Fruits

  • Wash and chop all fruits into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cranberries and grapes. Combine apples, pears, grapes, cranberries, mandarin oranges, and pomegranate arils in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

  • In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, orange juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Salad

  • Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and toss gently to coat.

Step 4: Add Toppings

  • Sprinkle chopped nuts and dried cranberries over the salad. Gently mix to incorporate or leave as a decorative topping.

Step 5: Serve

  • Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving for a chilled option.

Description:

This Thanksgiving Fruit Salad is a vibrant medley of fresh, seasonal fruits with a creamy honey-citrus dressing that enhances their natural sweetness. The crunch of toasted nuts and the tartness of fresh cranberries add texture and balance, making it a delightful addition to your holiday spread.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 160
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 20g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and ingredient brands.

Recommendations:

  1. Pairing: Serve alongside savory dishes like turkey or stuffing to complement their rich flavors.
  2. Make It Vegan: Use a plant-based yogurt alternative and maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.
  3. Extra Sweetness: Drizzle with caramel or add mini marshmallows for a dessert-like twist.
  4. Serving Ideas: Serve in individual cups for a more elegant presentation.
  5. Holiday Adaptations: Add festive touches like a sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of spiced cider for Christmas.

Conclusion:

This Thanksgiving Fruit Salad is a light, refreshing addition to your holiday menu that celebrates the bounty of the season. With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser for family and friends. Try it this Thanksgiving and enjoy the perfect balance of healthiness and indulgence!

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