Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Fall Fruit Salad combines the best of autumn flavors with a fresh, healthy twist. Featuring crisp apples, juicy grapes, tangy blackberries, and crunchy pecans, it’s drizzled with a homemade cinnamon-orange dressing that brings warmth and depth to the salad. Whether served at a Thanksgiving dinner or as a refreshing snack, this vibrant salad is the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that celebrate the season. It’s quick, easy to make, and the perfect addition to any fall gathering.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 orange (for zest and juice)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 16 ounces red seedless grapes
- 12 ounces blackberries
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 2 large sweet apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Red Delicious)
Directions
- Zest and juice the orange into a large bowl.
- Add maple syrup and cinnamon to the orange juice, whisking until combined.
- Add grapes, blackberries, and pecans to the bowl.
- Cube the apples into bite-sized pieces and immediately add them to the bowl to prevent browning.
- Toss the ingredients gently to coat with the dressing.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Add more fruits: Consider adding kiwi, pomegranate arils, or pears for extra flavor and color.
- Swap nuts: If you prefer, substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds.
- Citrus twist: You can substitute the orange juice with lemon or lime juice for a tangier dressing.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can be kept for a few days without losing much flavor. Avoid storing for too long, as the fruit may soften.
FAQs
What are the best apples for fruit salad?
Sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Red Delicious are ideal for fruit salad.
How do I keep my apples from turning brown?
The dressing coats the apples and prevents oxidation. Be sure to add the apples right before tossing the salad.
What other fruits can I add to fruit salad?
In addition to the ingredients listed, you can add oranges, pears, figs, persimmons, or even kiwi for more variety.
How long does leftover fruit salad last?
Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it’s best to serve within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Just make sure to toss the salad just before serving to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed.
What can I do with leftover fruit salad?
You can use leftover fruit salad as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, or granola.
Can I make this fruit salad without maple syrup?
Yes, you can use honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup, but it will no longer be vegan.
Can I use frozen fruit for this recipe?
Fresh fruit is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but you can use frozen fruit if necessary—just be aware it may release extra liquid when thawed.
How do I prevent the pecans from getting soggy?
Add the pecans just before serving to keep them crunchy.
Can I use a different type of dressing?
You can experiment with different dressings, such as a honey-lime dressing or a yogurt-based dressing, if you prefer.
Conclusion
This Fall Fruit Salad is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the season’s best fruits. The addition of cinnamon and orange zest creates a warm, comforting flavor that makes this salad a standout at any fall event. With its easy preparation and vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy it as a refreshing snack or a perfect side dish for your holiday gatherings!
Print
Fall Fruit Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Fall Fruit Salad brings together the best of autumn’s flavors in a refreshing, healthy dish. Crisp apples, juicy grapes, tangy blackberries, and crunchy pecans are drizzled with a homemade cinnamon-orange dressing, adding warmth and depth to each bite. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering, this salad is the ideal balance of sweet and savory flavors. Quick and easy to make, it’s a vibrant addition to your seasonal celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 orange (for zest and juice)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 16 ounces red seedless grapes
- 12 ounces blackberries
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 2 large sweet apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Red Delicious)
Instructions
- Zest and juice the orange into a large bowl.
- Add maple syrup and cinnamon to the orange juice, whisking until combined.
- Add grapes, blackberries, and pecans to the bowl.
- Cube the apples into bite-sized pieces and immediately add them to the bowl to prevent browning.
- Gently toss the ingredients to coat with the dressing.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
- Add More Fruits: Consider adding kiwi, pomegranate arils, or pears for extra color and flavor.
- Swap Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
- Citrus Twist: For a tangier dressing, substitute orange juice with lemon or lime juice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
