Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

If you’re looking for a bright and cheerful addition to your holiday table, this Thanksgiving Fruit Salad is just what you need. Full of crisp apples and refreshing citrus, it’s a delightful mix of flavors that brings a burst of color to any gathering. I love making this salad because it’s not only delicious but also super easy to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family feast, this dish fits right in and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

What makes this Thanksgiving Fruit Salad so special is its homemade dressing, which adds the perfect touch of sweetness and warmth from fall spices. It’s like a hug in a bowl! Plus, it can be made ahead of time, giving you one less thing to worry about when you’re entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip this up in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors in every bite.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together for extra deliciousness.
• Healthy option: Packed with fruits and nuts, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile dish: Great as a side salad or even as a light dessert; it fits any occasion perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this delightful Thanksgiving Fruit Salad!

For the Salad

• 2 medium green apples
• 2 medium red apples
• ¾ cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup pecans
• 1 cup grapes
• 3 medium navel oranges

For the Dressing

• 1 medium lemon (juiced)
• ½ cup orange juice
• ¼ cup white sugar
• ¼ tsp apple pie spice
• zest of 1 lemon
• zest of 1 orange

Variations

One of the best things about this Thanksgiving Fruit Salad is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you love or have on hand.

• Add seasonal fruits: Toss in some diced pears or pomegranate seeds for added flavor and texture.
• Nuts galore: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some mint leaves over the top for an unexpected fresh twist.
• Dairy twist: Add dollops of dairy-free yogurt for creaminess if you’re looking for something richer.

How to Make Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and pop them into the oven while it heats up. Toasting nuts enhances their flavor and gives them a delightful crunch. Keep an eye (and nose!) on them; they’re ready when they start smelling amazing—usually around the same time your oven reaches temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, apple pie spice, zest of one lemon, and zest of one orange. Over medium heat, whisk these ingredients together until combined. Bringing this mixture to a low boil allows the flavors to meld beautifully. After simmering for 3-4 minutes, strain the dressing through a fine mesh strainer and let it cool completely.

Step 3: Chop Your Fruits

Core and slice your apples into bite-sized pieces. To keep them looking fresh and vibrant, toss them with juice from half a lemon—this prevents browning as they sit. Next, peel your oranges and cut them into bite-sized pieces as well.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, mix together the chopped apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, grapes, and orange pieces. This colorful combination creates an eye-catching salad that tastes as good as it looks!

Step 5: Dress Your Salad

Drizzle your cooled dressing over the fruit mixture and toss gently to combine everything evenly. This step is where all those lovely flavors come together! Serve immediately for maximum freshness or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving for even more flavor infusion.

And there you have it! A beautiful Thanksgiving Fruit Salad that will brighten up any meal! Enjoy sharing this delightful recipe with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Making the perfect Thanksgiving fruit salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some handy tips to ensure your salad shines on the holiday table!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh fruits not only taste better but also contribute to a vibrant presentation. Look for firm apples and juicy oranges for the best flavor.
• Toast your nuts: Toasting pecans brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor. Plus, it adds a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft fruits.
• Mix fruits wisely: Choose a variety of textures and flavors—crunchy apples, sweet grapes, and tart cranberries create a delightful medley that keeps every bite interesting.
• Make ahead: Prepare the dressing and chop the fruit a few hours in advance. Just toss everything together right before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant!
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar in the dressing based on your taste preferences or the natural sweetness of your fruits. This way, you can customize it to your liking!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Presenting your Thanksgiving fruit salad beautifully will make it an eye-catching centerpiece on your holiday table. Here are some creative ideas for serving this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing aroma that complements the fruity flavors.
• Cinnamon dust: A light dusting of cinnamon over the top gives a warm, cozy feel and enhances the festive vibe of fall.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the fruit salad, making for a balanced meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and citrus dressing offers protein while keeping things light and fresh alongside your fruit salad.
• Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds add crunch and a savory contrast to the sweetness of the fruit.

With these serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving feast is sure to be both beautiful and delicious! Enjoy creating memorable moments around this festive salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Fruit Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the big day.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain the crispness of the fruit.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as the texture of fresh fruits can change.
• If you have leftover pecans or dried cranberries, those can be frozen separately.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this salad; it’s best served chilled!
• Simply toss it gently before serving if it has been stored in the fridge to redistribute flavors.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Thanksgiving Fruit Salad.

Can I use different fruits in my Thanksgiving Fruit Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out or add your favorite seasonal fruits, such as pears or pomegranates, for a personal touch.

How long does Thanksgiving Fruit Salad last in the fridge?

Thanksgiving Fruit Salad can last in the fridge for about 3-5 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Enjoy it fresh!

Is this Thanksgiving Fruit Salad vegan-friendly?

Yes! This recipe is completely vegan as it contains no animal products. It’s a great option for everyone at your holiday table!

What spices can I add to my Thanksgiving Fruit Salad?

In addition to apple pie spice, you could experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the fall flavors even further.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant and flavorful Thanksgiving Fruit Salad as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of autumn’s bounty that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking, and may your holiday be filled with love, laughter, and delicious food!