Description
A refreshing and colorful Winter Fruit Salad featuring pears, apples, pomegranate seeds, grapes, kiwis, banana, walnuts, and dried cranberries, all tossed in a fragrant Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing. This no-cook, vibrant salad is chilled to blend flavors perfectly, making it a perfect healthy snack or side dish during the colder months.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Salad
- 2 ripe pears, cored and diced
- 2 red apples, cored and diced
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced
- 1 banana, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- Juice of half a lemon
Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the pears and apples: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced pears, diced apples, and the juice of half a lemon. Mix well to coat the fruit, which helps prevent browning and keeps the salad looking fresh.
- Add remaining fruits and nuts: Add pomegranate seeds, halved grapes, sliced kiwis, sliced banana, chopped walnuts (if using), and dried cranberries to the bowl with the pears and apples. Gently stir to combine all the fruits evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the honey is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Toss salad with dressing: Pour the Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing over the fruit mixture in the large bowl and gently toss everything together to thoroughly coat all the fruit pieces with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld and enhances the taste of the salad.
- Serve: Before serving, give the fruit salad a gentle toss once more, then transfer it to a serving dish or bowl. Serve chilled and enjoy this refreshing winter treat.
Notes
- Walnuts are optional but add a pleasant crunch and extra nutrition.
- To keep the apples and pears from browning longer, you can add a little extra lemon juice if desired.
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- This salad is best served within 24 hours of preparation for optimal freshness.
- Make sure to chill the salad well to let the flavors fully develop before serving.
