This vibrant summer fruit salad features a nostalgic vanilla pudding glaze that coats fresh fruit, making it perfect for warm-weather gatherings and brunches.
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Total Time 2 hourshours
Serving Size 8servings
Ingredients
Fresh Fruits
2cupsfresh strawberries, hulled and slicedChoose firm strawberries for best texture.
1cupblueberriesPat dry to avoid excess moisture.
1cuppineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)Fresh is preferable when in season.
1cupseedless grapes, halvedHalve for safety, especially for kids.
2unitskiwis, peeled and slicedAdd for a sweet and tangy flavor.
1unitmango, peeled and dicedUse ripe mango for best taste.
1cupmandarin orange segments (canned, drained)Can substitute with fresh mandarin segments.
1unitbanana, slicedAdd just before serving to avoid browning.
1cupcherries, pitted and halvedHalve for bite-sized pieces.
Pudding Glaze
1unitlime, zested and juicedBrightens the glaze.
1packageinstant vanilla pudding mix (3.4-ounce)Use instant for quick preparation.
1cupreserved fruit juice (from canned fruits) or pineapple juiceCan substitute with apple juice for a sweeter glaze.
Optional Garnish
to tastefresh mint leavesFor a refreshing decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
In a large mixing bowl, add the strawberries, blueberries, pineapple chunks, halved grapes, sliced kiwis, diced mango, mandarin segments, banana slices, and cherries. Gently toss to combine.
In a medium bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with 1 cup of reserved fruit juice or pineapple juice until smooth and slightly thickened.
Stir in the lime zest and lime juice into the pudding mixture. Taste and adjust lime if you prefer a brighter finish.
Pour the vanilla pudding glaze over the mixed fruit. Toss gently to coat each piece with the glaze.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the glaze to set and the flavors to meld.
Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and transfer to a serving bowl or individual cups. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Notes
Use fresh pineapple for the best texture. If avoiding canned syrup, substitute with chilled pineapple juice or apple juice. For a tangier glaze, use half pineapple juice and half orange juice.