Fall Fruit Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that celebrates the flavors of the season. Packed with seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and pomegranates, this salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing. It’s perfect for gatherings, holiday meals, or as a healthy snack!

Ingredients List

For the Salad:

• 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), diced
• 2 medium pears (such as Bartlett or Bosc), diced
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds (from about 1 pomegranate)
• 1 cup grapes (red or green), halved
• 1 cup mandarin oranges (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Timing

Preparing Fall Fruit Salad takes about 15 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruits

1. Dice the Apples and Pears: Wash and dice the apples and pears into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Halve the Grapes: Wash and halve the grapes.
3. Prepare Pomegranate Seeds: If using a whole pomegranate, cut it open and carefully remove the seeds. Alternatively, you can buy pre-packaged pomegranate seeds.

Step 2: Combine the Fruits

1. Mix Fruits Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, pears, pomegranate seeds, halved grapes, and mandarin oranges. If using nuts, add them to the bowl as well.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. Whisk Together Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), fresh orange juice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

1. Add Dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss until all the fruits are evenly coated.
2. Chill (Optional): For best flavor, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
3. Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Fall Fruit Salad!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Fall Fruit Salad (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	150
Protein	2g
Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	4g

Tips for Customization

• Add More Fruits: Feel free to include other seasonal fruits like figs, persimmons, or kiwi for extra variety.
• Use Different Nuts: Swap out walnuts or pecans for almonds or hazelnuts based on your preference.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for additional warmth and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Fall Fruit Salad pairs well with:

• Yogurt for a wholesome breakfast.
• Grilled chicken or pork for a refreshing side dish.
• Cheese platters for a delightful appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Overripe Fruit: Choose firm, fresh fruits to ensure the salad has a good texture and flavor.
2. Not Tossing Gently: Be gentle when mixing the fruits to avoid bruising them.
3. Skipping the Dressing: The dressing enhances the flavors; don’t skip it!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Fall Fruit Salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored 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.

Conclusion

In just 15 minutes, you can create a delightful Fall Fruit Salad that’s perfect for showcasing the best flavors of the season. This refreshing salad is not only healthy but also a beautiful addition to any table!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the fruit and dressing separately and combine them just before serving to maintain freshness.

What if I want to make it healthier?

You can reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup in the dressing or use yogurt as a base instead.

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the ingredients and quantities based on your preferences and what’s in season.

What’s the best way to cut a pomegranate?

To easily remove the seeds, cut the pomegranate in half and gently tap the back with a wooden spoon to release the seeds, or submerge it in water while removing the seeds to catch any that fall.