Name: Fall Fruit Salad That's a Refreshing Family Favorite
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Green Apples (Cored and sliced); 2 cups Red Apples (Cored and sliced, consider Honeycrisp); 1 cup Dried Cranberries (Can swap for raisins); 1 cup Pecans (Can substitute with walnuts or omit); 2 cups Grapes (Any seedless variety); 2 Navel Oranges Navel Oranges (Peeled and segmented); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Fresh juice preferred); 1/4 cup Orange Juice (Freshly squeezed preferred); 1 tablespoon White Sugar (Can substitute with honey or agave syrup); 1 teaspoon Apple Pie Spice (Cinnamon and nutmeg mix works); 1 teaspoon Zest of Lemon/Orange (Avoid the white pith)

Stepping into autumn feels like being wrapped in a cozy, colorful blanket of apples, oranges, and spices. As the leaves turn and Thanksgiving approaches, nothing enhances the holiday spirit quite like a delightful Thanksgiving Fruit Salad. This vibrant medley, featuring crunchy apples, juicy grapes, and tangy oranges, can be whipped up in just 10 minutes—making it a fantastic, hassle-free addition to your holiday feast. With a homemade spiced dressing that elevates each bite, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a perfect way to incorporate fresh fruits into a meal filled with indulgence. Ready to impress your guests with a beautiful and refreshing side? Let’s dive into the recipe!

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Why is this Fall Fruit Salad a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its Best: With just 10 minutes needed to prepare, this fruit salad is perfect for busy hosts wanting a fresh option.

Vibrant Flavors: The mix of crunchy apples, sweet grapes, and tangy oranges brings a burst of autumnal flavors that brighten up any table.

Homemade Dressing Magic: The addition of a homemade spiced dressing adds depth, making this salad truly stand out among typical holiday dishes.

Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to toss in diced pears or pomegranate seeds for a unique twist, just as you can with your favorite salads like Cucumber Chicken Salad or Broccoli Cauliflower Salad.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a casual family gathering, this refreshing salad will impress guests of all ages and dietary preferences.

Fall Fruit Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Green Apples – Gives a lovely crunch and tartness, perfect for a fall fruit salad.
• Red Apples – Adds a touch of sweetness and rich color; consider using Honeycrisp for extra flavor.
• Dried Cranberries – Offers a tangy chewiness; you can swap these for raisins if you prefer.
• Pecans – Adds a delightful nutty crunch; feel free to use walnuts or omit for a nut-free version.
• Grapes – Provide sweet bursts of flavor; any seedless variety works beautifully.
• Navel Oranges – Contributes juicy sweetness; mandarins make a tasty alternative.

For the Dressing
• Lemon Juice – Helps prevent browning of apples and adds brightness; fresh juice is always best.
• Orange Juice – Forms the sweet base for the dressing; freshly squeezed vibes are preferred but bottled will do.
• White Sugar – Sweetens the dressing perfectly; for a natural twist, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup.
• Apple Pie Spice – Infuses warmth into every bite; a cinnamon and nutmeg mix works if you don’t have it on hand.
• Zest of Lemon/Orange – Enhances the aroma with citrus notes; remember to avoid the white pith while zesting.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fall Fruit Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will set the stage for perfectly toasted pecans that add a delightful crunch to your Thanksgiving fruit salad.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans
Place the pecans on the prepared baking sheet and transfer them to the preheating oven. Toast the pecans for 5-7 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, as the nuts can go from golden to scorched quickly. Let them cool after roasting.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, white sugar, apple pie spice, and the zest of both lemon and orange. Heat the mixture over medium heat and bring it to a gentle simmer for about 3-4 minutes. This will dissolve the sugar and blend the flavors beautifully. Once done, strain the dressing into a bowl to remove any spice residue and allow it to cool.

Step 4: Core and Slice the Apples
While the dressing cools, take your green and red apples. Core them and slice them into bite-sized pieces, ensuring you maintain a mix of tart and sweet flavors. To prevent the apples from browning, toss them in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice as you work.

Step 5: Prepare the Oranges and Grapes
Next, peel the navel oranges and segment them, removing any seeds if present. Rinse your seedless grapes under cold water and pat them dry. The vibrant colors of the grapes and oranges will add visual appeal to your Fall Fruit Salad.

Step 6: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the sliced apples, segmented oranges, rinsed grapes, dried cranberries, and the toasted pecans. This vibrant medley will create a colorful and enticing salad that celebrates the flavors of autumn.

Step 7: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the cooled dressing over the combined fruit salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring that every bite of your Fall Fruit Salad is deliciously dressed.

Step 8: Serve or Store
You can serve the salad immediately for maximum freshness, or store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the fruit may brown slightly over time, but the taste remains delightful. Enjoy this refreshing Fall Fruit Salad as a perfect complement to your holiday feast.

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Fall Fruit Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize this vibrant fruit salad to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Pears: Add diced pears for a sweet, juicy twist that complements the apples beautifully. This addition introduces a lovely softness to the salad.
Pomegranate Seeds: Toss in some pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and an extra crunch. Their tartness offers a delightful contrast to the sweet fruits.
Creamy Addition: For a creamier texture, mix in whipped cream or yogurt. This variation transforms the salad into a luscious dessert treat that everyone will love.
Dried Fruits: Replace cranberries with chopped dried apricots or figs for a different flavor. Each dried fruit adds a unique sweetness and chewy texture to your salad.
Nut-Free: If you have nut allergies, simply omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds. This maintains the crunch factor without any risk.
Spiced Variations: Experiment with spices! A dash of ginger or allspice in the dressing can lend an exotic flair that compliments fall flavors beautifully.
Citrus Mix: Add segments of grapefruit or blood oranges for a refreshing zing. This gives the salad an unexpected citrusy boost, perfect for adventurous palates.
Tropical Twist: For a summery effect, incorporate chunks of pineapple or mango. This will create a delightful fusion of flavors that transports you to warmer climates.

By mixing and matching these delicious variations, you can easily craft your perfect Thanksgiving Fruit Salad! For more inspiration, try adding some flair with your favorite salads like Shortcake Fluff Salad or Cucumber Chicken Salad.

Storage Tips for Fall Fruit Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover Fall Fruit Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps maintain freshness, though some browning may occur.

Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature; the flavors are brighter when fresh. Simply serve directly from the fridge for a refreshing bite.

Dressing: You can prepare the dressing up to three days in advance. Store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for easy access and added convenience!

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the fruit will change. Enjoy your vibrant Fall Fruit Salad fresh for the best taste and texture.

What to Serve with Delicious Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Elevate your holiday feast with delightful pairings that enhance the flavors of this vibrant fruit medley.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery, smooth texture beautifully contrasts the crunch of the fruit salad, creating a comforting balance.
Honey-glazed Roasted Carrots: The natural sweetness of the carrots echoes the fruit’s flavors, while their caramelization offers a lovely depth.
Maple-Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: These add a savory and tangy note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the fruit, creating a well-rounded plate.
Crispy Roasted Turkey: The juicy, savory richness of turkey pairs harmoniously with the refreshing notes of the fruit salad, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Sparkling Cider: This bubbly drink brings a festive touch and its crispness refreshes the palate between bites of sweet and savory dishes.
Pumpkin Pie: A classic dessert that pairs well with any Thanksgiving spread. The warm spices in the pie echo the flavors found in the fruit salad’s dressing, creating a delightful finish.

Tips for the Best Fall Fruit Salad

Choose Fresh Fruit: Use the freshest apples, oranges, and grapes for vibrancy and better flavor in your Fall Fruit Salad.

Prevent Browning: Toss apple slices in lemon juice immediately after cutting to keep them crisp and prevent browning.

Customizable Options: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fruits like pears or pomegranate seeds to create your unique version of this salad.

Use Fine Mesh Strainer: Straining the dressing is essential to achieve a smooth consistency and remove spice residue for a more pleasant texture.

Serve Fresh: For the best appearance and taste, enjoy the salad shortly after preparation, as leftovers may brown but remain tasty.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Thanksgiving Fruit Salad components are perfect for meal prep! To save time on the big day, you can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance. Simply combine orange juice, sugar, apple pie spice, and zests, simmer, and cool it in the fridge. For the fruit, core and slice the apples (toss with lemon juice to prevent browning), segment the oranges, and rinse the grapes up to 24 hours ahead. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepared ingredients, drizzle with the dressing, and toss gently for a refreshing treat that’s just as delicious as when freshly made. Enjoy the ease of having your Thanksgiving Fruit Salad prepped and ready to shine at your holiday table!

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Fall Fruit Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right apples for this salad?
Absolutely! For a well-balanced flavor, I recommend using a mix of green and red apples. Green apples like Granny Smith provide a lovely tartness, while varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji add sweetness. When selecting, look for firm apples without dark spots or blemishes for the best crunch and taste.

How should I store leftover Fall Fruit Salad?
To keep your salad fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just remember, while the salad may brown slightly over time, the flavor will still be delightful. Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for the best experience!

Can I freeze this fruit salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this refreshingly vibrant Fall Fruit Salad. The textures of the fruits, especially apples and grapes, will change upon thawing, making them mushy and less appealing. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh for the tastiest results!

What are some common issues preventable when making this salad?
Very! One common issue is browning apples. To prevent this, toss the apple slices in lemon juice immediately after cutting. Additionally, be mindful not to over-toast your pecans; keep an eye on them in the oven to avoid burning—just 5-7 minutes is enough for a delightful crunch!

Is this salad suitable for people with allergies?
This recipe is quite versatile! It’s vegetarian and vegan-friendly; however, it does contain nuts. If you have nut allergies, feel free to omit the pecans or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for some crunch. Always double-check your ingredients to cater to any specific allergy needs while keeping the salad delicious!