Fall Fruit Salad

Autumn has arrived, and with it comes a bounty of delicious fruits perfect for creating a refreshing and flavorful salad. This Fall Fruit Salad recipe is a family favorite, always a hit at our Thanksgiving gatherings. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and showcases the best of fall’s harvest.

The star of this salad is the homemade cinnamon-orange dressing. It’s a simple yet elegant blend of fresh orange juice and zest, maple syrup, and warm cinnamon. This dressing infuses the fruit with an irresistible aroma and a taste that captures the essence of fall.

Why You’ll Love It

This Fall Fruit Salad is more than just a simple mix of fruit – it’s a celebration of autumn flavors. The combination of crisp apples, juicy berries, crunchy pecans, and the zesty cinnamon-orange dressing creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a refreshing and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and just a handful of ingredients.

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What You’ll Need

For this vibrant Fall Fruit Salad, you’ll need a mix of fresh, seasonal fruits and a few pantry staples for the homemade cinnamon-orange dressing. Let’s dive in!

For the Dressing:

• 1 large orange (zest and juice)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Salad:

• 16 ounces red seedless grapes
• 12 ounces blackberries
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 2 large sweet apples (like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala)

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The bright citrusy notes of the orange blend beautifully with the warm spice of cinnamon, while the maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness. The grapes and blackberries offer bursts of juicy goodness, complemented by the satisfying crunch of pecans and the crisp bite of apples.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a large bowl, zest and juice the orange. Add the maple syrup and cinnamon, whisking until well combined.

Step 2: Combine the Fruit

Add the grapes, blackberries, and pecans to the bowl with the dressing.

Step 3: Prepare the Apples

Cube the apples into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl with the other fruit. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the cinnamon-orange dressing.

Step 4: Serve or Store

Serve the Fall Fruit Salad immediately or store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve. If storing, give the salad a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Better-Than-Grandma Tips

• Make Ahead: Prepare the salad up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Give it a gentle toss before serving. Looking for more make-ahead recipes? Check out our Lunch category.
• Apple Choices: While Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala apples are recommended for their sweetness, feel free to experiment with other crisp varieties like Braeburn or Pink Lady. Just avoid softer apples like McIntosh, which might get too mushy.
• Tossing Technique: To prevent the fruit from bruising, gently toss the salad with the dressing using a large spoon or spatula.
• Storage: Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Flavor Twists

• Citrus Swap: Instead of orange, try using grapefruit or tangerine for the dressing. Adjust the amount of maple syrup to taste.
• Nutty Additions: Walnuts, almonds, or pistachios can be used in place of pecans, or combine them for a mixed-nut crunch.
• Dried Fruit Delight: Add a handful of dried cranberries or chopped dates for extra sweetness and chewiness. For other delicious ideas check out our Breakfast recipes.
• Spiced Variation: A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can enhance the warm spice notes of the dressing.

How to Serve

This Fall Fruit Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It’s a refreshing side dish for any fall meal, from Thanksgiving dinner to a casual weeknight supper. It also makes a light and satisfying lunch on its own. For a more substantial meal, try pairing it with grilled chicken or fish. You can even add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of granola for extra flavor and texture. For more salad recipes perfect for any meal, check out our Dinner ideas.

That’s a Wrap

This Fall Fruit Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for any autumn gathering. The cinnamon-orange dressing adds a warm, zesty touch that complements the sweetness of the fruit and the crunch of pecans. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a refreshing side dish, or a healthy dessert, this salad is sure to please. For more refreshing recipes, check out our Desserts category. Come chat with us on social media too! We love seeing your creations. Find us on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.