Get Creative with Fresh Fruit Salads

A sweet twist for National Salad Month

Are you looking for a fun and creative way to add flavor to your family's meals? With warmer temperatures rolling in, one food item is quickly jumping up on everyone’s must-have list: fresh fruit! Why not toss together some tasty fruit salads to serve at picnics, potlucks, or just as part of a healthy summer dinner. Read on for tips to dress up your favorite fruit salads.  They are sure to inspire creativity in your kitchen! So, grab the grocery bags and let's get ready for some serious refreshing fruity goodness. 

1. Incorporate a Variety of Fruits:  When it comes to fruit salads, don't limit yourself to just one or two types of fruit. Mix things up by including a variety of fruits that have different colors, textures, and tastes. Try cutting up some juicy watermelon, tart kiwi, and sweet strawberries. Or, mix together some oranges and grapes with bananas and pineapple. The options are endless!

2. Add Some Greens:  While it's called a fruit salad, don’t be afraid to add greens! Including some greens, such as spinach or arugula, can add some extra nutritional value and flavor. Plus, they can help balance out the sweetness of the fruit if used in moderation.

3. Get Creative with Your Dressing:  While you could simply use a store-bought variety like a raspberry vinaigrette or poppyseed dressing, getting creative with your dressing can help take your fruit salad to the next level. Try mixing together some honey and lime juice for a sweet and tangy option. Or, mix together some balsamic vinegar and olive oil for something more traditional.

4. Add Some Crunch:  By including some ingredients with a bit of crunch, such as nuts, seeds even granola, you'll add another layer of texture and flavor to your fruit salad. Try tossing in some salted almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds for a punch of flavor.

5. Make it a Meal:  While fruit salads can be a dessert on their own, they can also make a great side dish for a meal – really! Try adding some pineapple and mango tossed with cilantro to cooked shrimp and rice, and you've got yourself a complete and balanced meal.

Fresh fruit salads are a versatile, healthy, and delicious that should be a staple in your kitchen, especially during National Salad Month! They can be sweet, savory, or somewhere in between, making them a great option for any meal of the day. So, why not experiment with our Thai Fruit Salad or Five Spice Fruit & Avocado Salad. Your taste buds will thank you!

Pro Tip:  When using bananas in fruit salad, be sure to coat with lemon or orange juice.  This will help slow the oxidation process which makes your bananas turn brown!

Published May 1, 2023