Healthy Brunch Fruit Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Healthy Brunch Fruit Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for any morning gathering or light snack. It combines a variety of fresh fruits with a sweet, tangy sauce that brings out their natural flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 can pineapple chunks
- 1 medium red apple
- 1 medium green apple
- 1 can mandarin oranges
- 2 large bananas (firm, not overripe)
- 1 cup green grapes (halved if large)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/3 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
- 2 tbsp cornflour (or cornstarch for thickening)
- 1/2 cup sugar (granulated white sugar works best)
Instructions
- Step 1: Begin by draining the can of pineapple, reserving the juice for the sauce. In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple with sliced bananas, halved grapes, segmented mandarins, and chopped red and green apples. Mix gently and set aside.
- Step 2: In a small saucepan, mix sugar and cornstarch thoroughly. Gradually add the orange juice, lemon juice, and reserved pineapple juice, stirring continuously until smooth.
- Step 3: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce to a gentle simmer, cooking and stirring constantly for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes slightly translucent with a smooth texture.
- Step 4: Pour the warm sauce over the prepared fruit. Gently mix to coat all the fruit without mashing. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Step 5: Before serving, give the fruit salad a gentle toss to redistribute the sauce and refresh the flavors.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh fruit whenever possible for a more vibrant taste and texture.
- Try adding other fruits like blueberries or kiwi for extra color and nutrition.
- Substitute honey for sugar if you prefer a natural sweetener, adjusting quantity to taste.
- For a dairy twist, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt on top.
Storage
Store the fruit salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce may slightly soften the fruit over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a day. When serving leftovers, give the salad a gentle stir and serve chilled.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, fresh fruit can be used. Just substitute canned pineapple and mandarins with fresh ones and adjust the juice quantities as needed.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, prepare it up to a day ahead. Keep it refrigerated and toss gently before serving to refresh the flavors.
PrintHealthy Brunch Fruit Salad Recipe
A vibrant and healthy fruit salad perfect for brunch, combining a variety of fresh fruits with a lightly sweetened citrus sauce that adds a refreshing and tangy flavor. This recipe is easy to prepare, nutritious, and ideal for gatherings or a wholesome everyday treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Fruit
- 1 can pineapple chunks (drained, juice reserved)
- 1 medium red apple (chopped)
- 1 medium green apple (chopped)
- 1 can mandarin oranges (segmented)
- 2 large bananas (firm, sliced)
- 1 cup green grapes (halved if large)
Sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/3 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 2 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch for thickening)
- 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: Drain the can of pineapple and reserve the juice. In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple chunks with the sliced bananas, halved grapes, segmented mandarin oranges, and chopped apples. Gently mix the fruit together and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, mix together the sugar and cornflour until blended. Gradually add the orange juice, lemon juice, and the reserved pineapple juice to the saucepan, stirring continuously until smooth. Place over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Thicken the Sauce: Once boiling, reduce heat to a gentle simmer and cook while stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. The sauce should thicken and become slightly translucent with a smooth texture, indicating it’s ready.
- Combine and Chill: Pour the warm sauce over the prepared fruit in the large bowl. Gently toss to coat all the fruit evenly, taking care not to mash the fruit. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the fruit salad until ready to serve.
- Serve: Before serving, give the fruit salad a gentle toss to redistribute the sauce and flavors. Serve chilled for a refreshing and healthy brunch option.
Notes
- Use firm bananas to prevent them from turning mushy in the salad.
- Freshly squeezed orange juice enhances the flavor but store-bought juice can be used as a substitute.
- The sauce should be thick enough to coat the fruit without being too gloopy.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor and texture.
- This salad is best enjoyed the same day to maintain the freshness of the fruits.
Keywords: fruit salad, healthy brunch, pineapple, bananas, citrus sauce, easy salad, fresh fruit, low fat
