In the annals of holiday traditions, few desserts evoke the spirit of festive cheer like a classic fruit salad. This timeless dish, often served as a refreshing finale to a hearty holiday meal, offers a delightful symphony of vibrant colors, sweet-tart flavors, and nostalgic aromas. With its medley of fresh and dried fruits, each bite promises a burst of natural goodness, making it a perennial favorite among dessert enthusiasts of all ages. From the crisp crunch of apples and pears to the chewy sweetness of raisins and cranberries, and the tangy zest of citrus fruits, this classic dish embodies the essence of the holiday season. And with various recipes ranging from the traditional to the delightfully unique, there's a fruit salad variation to suit every palate and preference, ensuring that this beloved dessert continues to grace holiday tables for generations to come.
Let's cook with our recipes!
CHRISTMAS FRUIT SALAD
It was at the very first Thanksgiving I spent with my husband's family that I tasted this for the first time. My mother-in-law shared the recipe. I serve it for special occasions, plus it's a main-stay at the potlucks we have at work. After 41 years of marriage, my husband and I still enjoy the salad - along with our four children and their spouses and our nine grandchildren. -Ina Vickers, Dumas, Arkansas
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Dinner Lunch Side Dishes
Time 20m
Yield 14 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- In a large saucepan, combine egg yolks, water, vinegar and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and reaches 160°. Remove from the heat and cool; fold in whipped cream. , In a large bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Add dressing; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 293 calories, Fat 20g fat (9g saturated fat), Cholesterol 92mg cholesterol, Sodium 107mg sodium, Carbohydrate 30g carbohydrate (26g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 3g protein.
GRANDMA'S FRUIT SALAD
"I can't believe how easy this pretty salad is to make," says Carolyn Tomatz of Jackson, Wisconsin. The colorful blend of bananas, pineapple, pears and peaches and grapes is tossed with a creamy pudding sauce. "People of all ages enjoy this dish," Carolyn notes.
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Lunch
Time 25m
Yield 12 servings, 1/2 cup per serving.
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Drain pineapple, reserving juice in a 1-cup measuring cup. In a large bowl, combine the pineapple, pears, peaches and grapes. Cover and refrigerate. , Add enough water to pineapple juice to measure 1 cup. Pour into a small saucepan. Whisk in pudding mix. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; set aside to cool to room temperature., Slice bananas into a small bowl. Drizzle with lemon juice; gently toss to coast. Let stand for 5 minutes; drain. Add bananas and cherries to chilled fruit. Add cooled pudding; toss gently to combine. Refrigerate until serving. Refrigerate leftovers.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 140 calories, Fat 0 fat (0 saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 53mg sodium, Carbohydrate 37g carbohydrate (33g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges
OVERNIGHT FRUIT SALAD
I first tasted this rich, old-fashioned fruit salad at my wedding reception many years ago. The ladies who did the cooking wouldn't share the recipe at the time, but I eventually got it. I've made it for many meals, and our daughters copied the recipe when they married. -Eileen Duffeck, Lena, Wisconsin
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Side Dishes
Time 30m
Yield 16 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- In a double boiler over medium heat, cook and stir eggs, sugar and vinegar until mixture is thickened and reaches 160°. Remove from the heat; stir in butter. Cool. , In a large serving bowl, combine grapes, marshmallows, pineapple, oranges and bananas; add cooled dressing and stir to coat. Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight. Just before serving, fold in whipped cream and pecans.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 244 calories, Fat 16g fat (8g saturated fat), Cholesterol 84mg cholesterol, Sodium 44mg sodium, Carbohydrate 24g carbohydrate (21g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 3g protein.
OLD-FASHIONED HOLIDAY FRUIT SALAD
I remember my Mamma making this every Thanksgiving or Christmas. It was a tradition that went on for many years. I found a handwritten version of this recipe folded and put in one of my old cookbooks.
Provided by Jeanne Benavidez
Categories Fruit Desserts
Time 30m
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- 1. Beat the cream cheese and sugar together in a large bowl.
- 2. Using a hand mixer on high speed, beat in the whipped topping.
- 3. Gently fold in the bananas, pineapple, fruit cocktail, apple, cherries, pecan pieces and raisins.
- 4. Pour into a serving dish and chill at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips:
- To save time, use pre-cut fruit or canned fruit.
- If you're using fresh fruit, be sure to wash and dry it thoroughly.
- Use a variety of fruits to create a colorful and flavorful salad.
- Add nuts, seeds, or whipped cream for extra flavor and texture.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Conclusion:
This old-fashioned holiday fruit salad is a delicious and festive side dish that is perfect for any holiday gathering. It is easy to make and can be tailored to your own personal preferences. With its bright colors and variety of flavors, this salad is sure to be a hit with everyone at your table.
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