Name: Fresh and Festive Fall Fruit Salad for Thanksgiving and Christmas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 medium Green Apples (Can substitute with Granny Smith); 2 medium Red Apples (Fuji or Honeycrisp are good alternatives); 1 cup Dried Cranberries (Can swap with raisins or chopped dates); 1 cup Pecans (Substitute with walnuts or almonds); 2 cups Grapes (Any variety of seedless grapes); 2 medium Navel Oranges (Mandarins or tangerines work well); 1 each Lemon (Juiced) (Lime juice can be used if lemon is unavailable); 1/2 cup Orange Juice (Freshly squeezed is ideal); 1 tablespoon White Sugar (Honey or agave syrup can be substituted); 1 teaspoon Apple Pie Spice (Cinnamon and nutmeg mix can be used); 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (Use fresh for best results); 1 teaspoon Orange Zest (Fresh zest recommended for intense flavor)

As I was sorting through my favorite seasonal recipes, I stumbled upon a vibrant blend of colors that instantly transported me to beautiful family gatherings—this Colorful Thanksgiving Fruit Salad with Spiced Citrus Dressing. It’s amazing how a mix of crunchy apples, sweet grapes, and tangy oranges can create such a refreshing experience, especially when drizzled with a homemade dressing that dances with warm spices. Not only is this fall fruit salad perfect for Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts, but it also takes just 10 minutes to prepare! Imagine impressing your guests with a light, healthy side dish that doubles as a delicious dessert when paired with a scoop of ice cream. Intrigued? Let’s dive into how you can create this festive delight in no time!

Why is This Fruit Salad a Must-Try?

Simplicity Meets Elegance: With just a quick 10-minute prep time, this fruit salad is perfect for busy holiday schedules.

Bursting with Flavor: The spiced citrus dressing elevates the fresh fruits, creating a delightful balance that’s truly irresistible.

Versatile Delight: Great as a side dish for holiday dinners or a light dessert, it easily adapts to any occasion.

Colorful Presentation: Vibrant hues of red apples, green apples, and oranges make it a visually stunning centerpiece for your table.

Healthy Indulgence: Packed with vitamins and fiber, you can enjoy this guilt-free treat while impressing your health-conscious guests.

Looking for another refreshing side? Check out my easy Broccoli Cauliflower Salad for a perfect pairing!

Fall Fruit Salad Ingredients

• Let’s gather what you need for this Fall Fruit Salad for Thanksgiving and Christmas!

For the Fruit

Green Apples – Provides crunch and tartness; substitute with Granny Smith or other tart varieties for extra zing.
Red Apples – Adds sweetness and color; alternatives like Fuji or Honeycrisp offer similar results.
Dried Cranberries – Offers sweetness and a chewy texture; feel free to swap with raisins or chopped dates if desired.
Pecans – Adds a nutty crunch; can be replaced with walnuts or almonds to suit your taste.
Grapes – Contributes juiciness and sweetness; any type of seedless grapes will work perfectly.
Navel Oranges – Provides tanginess and juiciness; mandarins or tangerines are great substitutes.

For the Dressing

Lemon (Juiced) – Prevents browning of apples and adds acidity; use lime juice if lemon is unavailable.
Orange Juice – Acts as a sweet base for the dressing; freshly squeezed is ideal, but bottled can do in a pinch.
White Sugar – Sweetens the dressing; opt for honey or agave syrup for a less refined choice.
Apple Pie Spice – Adds warmth and flavor; a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg can be used as a replacement.
Lemon Zest – Enhances the citrus flavor; always use fresh zest for the best results.
Orange Zest – Complements the orange juice for a more intense flavor; fresh zest is highly recommended.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fall Fruit Salad For Thanksgiving And Christmas

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread out the pecans on a baking sheet in an even layer. Toast them in the oven for about 5 to 10 minutes, until they become fragrant and slightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small saucepan, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, white sugar, apple pie spice, lemon zest, and orange zest. Heat the mixture over medium heat, whisking continuously until it reaches a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened. Afterward, strain the mixture to remove any zest pieces and set it aside to cool.

Step 3: Cut the Fruit
While the dressing is cooling, take the green and red apples and core them. Slice the apples into bite-sized pieces and toss them immediately with lemon juice to keep them from browning. Then, peel the navel oranges and segment them into small, juicy pieces. This combination of fruits will add a colorful and refreshing element to your Fall Fruit Salad for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Step 4: Mix the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped apples, your choice of grapes, orange segments, dried cranberries, and the toasted pecans. Stir gently to ensure everything mixes evenly without bruising the fruits. This balanced combination creates a delightful array of textures and flavors that make this salad truly seasonal.

Step 5: Serve the Salad
Once the dressing has cooled completely, drizzle it over the fruit mixture in the bowl. Toss everything together gently until the fruits are well coated, enhancing the natural sweetness in your Fall Fruit Salad for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, and enjoy the vibrant and festive look of your dish!

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Make Ahead Options

These Colorful Thanksgiving Fruit Salad and Spiced Citrus Dressing are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can make the dressing up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, toast your pecans up to 1 week ahead to ensure they maintain their crunch. For the fruit, it’s best to prep the apples and toss them with lemon juice before storing in the fridge for up to 1-2 days, but keep in mind they may brown slightly. When ready to serve, combine everything in a bowl, drizzle with the dressing, and toss gently for fresh, festive results that are just as delicious!

Expert Tips for Fall Fruit Salad

Choose Fresh Fruits: Select ripe, seasonal fruits for the best flavor. Fresh apples, oranges, and grapes make your Fall Fruit Salad extra delightful.
Prevent Browning: Toss cut apples with lemon juice immediately to keep them vibrant and appealing. This simple step enhances your salad’s appearance.
Adjust the Sweetness: Taste the dressing before serving, and adjust with more sugar or honey if desired. Personalizing the sweetness will enhance every bite.
Toast Nuts Properly: Make sure the pecans are cooled completely after toasting. Warm nuts can lose their crunch when mixed with fresh fruit in the Fall Fruit Salad.
Serve Fresh: For optimal taste and texture, serve the salad right after preparation. Storing it for too long may cause browning and a soggy salad.

What to Serve with Colorful Thanksgiving Fruit Salad with Spiced Citrus Dressing

This delightful medley of flavors creates a colorful sidekick to elevate your holiday meal.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture of mashed potatoes complements the crunchiness of the fruit salad, providing a perfect contrast on your plate.
Roasted Turkey: A classic choice, the savory, juicy turkey balances with the sweet, fresh fruit, making every bite a joyful burst of flavors.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are ideal for soaking up the spicy citrus dressing, enhancing your meal’s overall warmth and comfort.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of caramelized carrots pairs beautifully with the fruity warmth of the salad, adding another layer of flavor.
Sparkling Cider: This effervescent drink adds a festive flair to your table, effortlessly matching the fruit salad’s lively character.
Pumpkin Pie: A nostalgic dessert that introduces rich spices and creaminess, creating an indulgent end to your meal while harmonizing with the fruit salad’s fresh notes.

Fall Fruit Salad Variations

Feel free to customize your fall fruit salad and make it your own, adding delightful twists as you go!

Pear Swap: Replace green apples with ripe pears for a softer, sweeter bite. They blend beautifully with the citrus flavors.
Pomegranate Perks: Toss in some juicy pomegranate seeds for a burst of tart sweetness, adding both crunch and color to your dish.
Kiwi Kick: Add sliced kiwi for an exotic touch. Their bright green color and tangy taste will brighten your salad even more.
Tropical Twist: Incorporate fresh pineapple chunks for a tropical vibe. This sweet and juicy addition will transport your taste buds to sunshine-filled days.
Mixed Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a nutty crunch that complements the fresh fruits. Each nut brings its own unique flavor and texture!
Spicy Surprise: For a heat kick, sprinkle in some finely chopped jalapeños. The spice levels will counterbalance the sweetness of the fruits beautifully.

This refreshing fruit salad is versatile and can be served alongside other dishes. Don’t forget to check out my easy Cucumber Chicken Salad for light, tasty pairings!

Sweetener Options: Swap out white sugar for honey or agave syrup in the dressing for a natural, less refined sweetness. It’s a lovely alternative that enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Fridge: Keep any leftover Fall Fruit Salad for Thanksgiving and Christmas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. Note that the apples may brown slightly over time.

Dressing: You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; this makes assembly quick on the day of serving.

Pecans: Toasted pecans can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature, ensuring they stay crunchy while you prepare your salad.

Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no reheating necessary. Simply store and serve straight from the fridge to keep it refreshing!

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Fall Fruit Salad for Thanksgiving and Christmas Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe fruit for my salad?
Absolutely! Look for apples that are firm to the touch and free from dark spots. Choose oranges that feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. When selecting grapes, go for plump, firm berries without wrinkles or blemishes for the best taste.

How do I store leftover fruit salad?
To keep your leftover Fall Fruit Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. However, keep in mind that the apples may brown slightly over time. To minimize browning, you can toss the cut apples with a little extra lemon juice before serving.

Can I freeze the fruit salad?
I don’t recommend freezing the Fall Fruit Salad, as the texture of the fresh fruits may not hold up well after thawing. If you must prepare in advance, consider freezing the dressing only. Just pour the dressing into an ice cube tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Use it within 3 months!

What can I do if my apples brown too quickly?
To effectively prevent browning, toss the fresh apple slices in lemon juice immediately after cutting. You can also prepare the fruit just before serving. If you notice some slight browning after storage, it’s still safe to eat, but the salad might lose its vibrant look.

Is there any allergen information I should know?
Definitely! Make sure to check if anyone is allergic to nuts before serving as the pecans can be a common allergen. If necessary, you can easily substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds to keep the crunch without the allergy risk. The rest of this colorful Fall Fruit Salad for Thanksgiving and Christmas is naturally vegan and vegetarian-friendly!