Fruit Cocktail Salad Recipe For A Burst of Sunshine in Every Bite!

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fruit-cocktail-salad-in-a-white-bowl-with-chopped-apples-oranges-and-cranberries

Desserts

Bright, refreshing, and bursting with tropical flair, this fruit cocktail salad is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Inspired by street markets from Thailand to Mexico, it combines juicy fruits with a citrusy dressing that enhances every bite. It’s a no-fuss dish that brings a little sunshine to any table.

This salad pairs beautifully with crispy Panko Breaded Chicken and fiery Mango Habanero Wings, making it a vibrant side for your next cookout. The contrast of cool, juicy fruits with crunchy, golden-brown breading or smoky heat elevates every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer feast or a casual dinner, this duo delivers bold flavors with ease.

A quick toss of fruits, a drizzle of zesty syrup, and you’ve got a dish worthy of both backyard barbecues and elegant brunches. Pro tip: Let it chill for an hour before serving—the flavors meld into something truly extraordinary. Experiment with seasonal fruits and discover your own signature twist!

Perfect for Summer Picnics!

fruit-cocktail-salad-in-a-white-bowl-with-chopped-apples-oranges-and-cranberries
  • Cooling & Refreshing: On sweltering days, nothing beats a chilled bowl of fruit cocktail salad straight from the fridge. It’s like an instant tropical escape.
  • Pairs with Grilled & Fried: Whether you’re balancing out the heat of Mango Habanero Wings or adding freshness to Panko Breaded Chicken, this salad does the job.
  • Quick, No-Cook Magic: When it’s too hot to turn on the oven, this recipe comes together in minutes—just chop, mix, and chill.
  • Crowd-Pleasing & Versatile: From backyard BBQs to picnics at the beach, this salad fits any summer occasion. Bonus: It’s a great way to use up extra fruit!
  • Tastes Like Summer: The bright, juicy mix of fruits, kissed with citrus and honey, is pure sunshine in every bite.

Fruit Cocktail Salad Recipe

This refreshing fruit cocktail salad is a vibrant medley of flavors and textures, combining a classic fruit cocktail with fresh diced fruits like kiwi, strawberries, blueberries, apple, peach, mandarins, and mango. A touch of lemon juice, zest, and optional honey or mint enhances its natural sweetness.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 12 people
Calories 110 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Citrus peeler or small paring knife
  • Mixing spoon
  • Serving spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 2 spears fresh pineapple cut into chunks
  • 30 oz canned fruit cocktail undrained
  • 1 medium banana
  • 2 cups seedless grapes
  • 2 small apples
  • 2 small fresh seedless mandarin oranges peeled and segmented

Instructions
 

  • Pour the canned fruit cocktail into a large bowl.
  • Cut the apples into bite-sized chunks without peeling them, then stir them into the fruit cocktail right away to keep them from browning.
  • Chop the pineapple spears into small pieces and add them to the mix.
  • Slice any large grapes in half before tossing them in.
  • Peel the mandarins, separate them into segments, and mix them into the salad.
  • If serving later, cover and refrigerate.
  • Just before eating, peel and chop the banana into chunks, then gently stir it in.

Notes

  • A sprinkle of shredded coconut or chopped nuts can add texture and flavor.
  • If you prefer a creamy version, mix in a few spoonfuls of Greek yogurt or whipped cream.
  • To enhance the citrusy flavor, add a splash of fresh orange or lemon juice.
NutritionValue
Calories100kcal
Carbohydrates29g
Fibre3g
Fat1g
Protein1g

Variations To Help You Customise This Dish!

  1. Tropical Twist – Swap the apples for mango chunks and add shredded coconut for a summery vibe.
  2. Berry Delight – Mix in fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a pop of color and extra sweetness.
  3. Citrus Zing – Add a splash of lime or lemon juice and a sprinkle of zest for a refreshing tang.
  4. Nutty Crunch – Toss in toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
  5. Creamy Indulgence – Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt, whipped cream, or sweetened condensed milk for a richer version.

Tags:

easy recipes / fruit desserts / fruit recipes / quick recipes

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