Are you ready to ditch the boring fruit salad and embrace a surprisingly delightful twist? This Fruit Salad with Mayo recipe might sound unconventional, but trust us, the creamy richness of mayonnaise perfectly complements the sweetness of fresh fruit, creating a unique and addictive flavor profile. It's a simple recipe, perfect for a quick and healthy dessert or a light lunch. This easy recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to elevate your fruit salad game!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed fruits (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, grapes, kiwi, mango – choose your favorites!)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (preferably a good quality, plain mayonnaise)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth
- Optional: Chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, pecans) for added crunch
Instructions:
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Prep the Fruit: Wash and thoroughly dry all your chosen fruits. Cut larger fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and mango into bite-sized pieces. If using grapes, simply halve them.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the prepared fruits, mayonnaise, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. If using cinnamon or nutmeg, add a pinch now.
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Mix Gently: Toss everything together carefully, ensuring the mayonnaise is evenly distributed throughout the fruit. Be gentle to avoid bruising the fruit.
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Chill (Optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is especially recommended if using firmer fruits.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled (or immediately if you’re impatient!), transfer the fruit salad to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped nuts, if desired. This delicious and healthy meal is perfect as a light lunch or a unique dessert.
Cooking Tips for the Best Fruit Salad:
- Fruit Selection: Use a variety of fruits with different textures and sweetness levels for a more interesting and flavorful salad.
- Ripeness Matters: Choose ripe but firm fruits for the best texture and flavor. Overripe fruits can become mushy.
- Don't Overmix: Gently toss the ingredients to avoid mashing the fruit.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the honey or maple syrup accordingly.
- Storage: Store leftover fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations:
- Tropical Twist: Use pineapple, papaya, and coconut flakes for a tropical fruit salad with mayo.
- Citrus Zing: Add segments of orange or mandarin for a refreshing citrusy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of chili powder for a unique spicy-sweet combination.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on a 4-serving recipe):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific fruits used.
- Calories: Around 200-250
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 20-25g
- Protein: Around 2-3g
This fruit salad with mayo is a testament to how simple ingredients can combine to create something truly special. It's a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for those looking for healthy meals or quick dinner ideas. The homemade cooking experience is elevated with this unique and delicious dish. Try it, and prepare to be surprised!