This easy summer fruit salad is a colorful mix of juicy fruits like watermelon, berries, and mango. It’s refreshing and perfect for those hot days when you want something cool and sweet!
Honestly, it’s so simple to make that sometimes I just cut up whatever fruit I find in the fridge. Add a squeeze of lime, and you’re all set for a tasty treat. 🍉🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches add sweetness and a juicy texture. If they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches (in juice, not syrup) or fresh apricots for a similar flavor.
Nectarines and Plums: They offer a delightful mix of tang and sweetness. Substitute with any seasonal stone fruit available, like cherries, if necessary.
Cherries: Sweet cherries are juicy and perfect here. Frozen cherries can work too; just thaw them first! If cherries are unavailable, try grapes for a different twist.
Berries: Blueberries and blackberries add a pop of color and tartness. Feel free to use strawberries or raspberries if that’s what you prefer or have on hand.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both add a touch of sweetness. For a sugar-free option, you might add a splash of orange juice instead.
Lemon or Lime Juice: This adds freshness. You can use any citrus juice you like, such as orange or grapefruit juice.
How Do You Make Sure Your Fruit Salad Stays Fresh and Tasty?
It’s important to prep fruit salad properly to keep it looking great and tasting fresh. Here are some tips:
- Always rinse fruit well before cutting to remove pesticides and dirt.
- Cut fruits just before serving to prevent browning. Use lemon juice on cut apples or bananas if you include them.
- Gently toss the salad with your dressing just before serving to keep the fruits from getting mushy.
- If preparing ahead, store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Trust me, these small steps will help your fruit salad shine at any summer gathering!
Easy Summer Fruit Salad Recipe for Hot Days
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups fresh peaches, sliced
- 1 cup fresh nectarines, sliced
- 1 cup fresh plums, sliced
- 1 cup fresh sweet cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or lime juice
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme leaves or mint (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep work to wash, cut, and combine the fruits. If you’d like to chill it, set aside an additional 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator for the flavors to blend and for a cooler salad.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Wash the Fruits:
Start by rinsing all your fresh fruit under cold running water. This will help remove any dirt or pesticides, ensuring that everything is nice and clean for your salad.
2. Prepare the Fruits:
Next, pit and slice the peaches, nectarines, and plums into thin, bite-sized pieces. For the sweet cherries, remove the pits and cut them in half. This makes them easier to eat and adds to the presentation!
3. Combine the Fruits:
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the sliced peaches, nectarines, plums, cherries, blueberries, and blackberries. Be gentle to keep the berries from getting crushed!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together your honey or maple syrup (if you’re using it) with the fresh lemon or lime juice. This will add a delicious tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruit.
5. Dress the Fruit Salad:
Drizzle the honey-juice mixture evenly over the fruit. Carefully toss the salad to coat all the pieces without smashing them. The vibrant colors will soon shine through!
6. Serve it Up:
Transfer your beautiful fruit salad to a serving bowl or platter. If you’d like, garnish with fresh thyme leaves or mint for a little extra flair and flavor.
7. Enjoy or Chill:
Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors! If you prefer it chilled, pop it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour. This is a fantastic way to refresh yourself on a hot day!
There you go! This vibrant, juicy fruit salad is perfect for summer, showcasing a delightful mix of stone fruits and berries. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Easy Summer Fruit Salad Recipe
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite seasonal fruits. Apples, grapes, or even tropical fruits like pineapple or mango can add a unique twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just note that the fruits may become softer over time.
How Do I Keep My Fruit From Browning?
To prevent browning, make sure to use freshly squeezed lemon or lime juice on fruits like apples or bananas. However, for this salad, the other fruits typically don’t brown easily.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the fruits a few hours ahead and store them separately from the dressing. Combine them together right before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy!
