This salad is bursting with juicy fruits and naturally sweet flavors, offering a refreshing contrast to heavier winter meals. It’s simple to make, visually stunning, and easy to customize. The citrus dressing adds brightness, while ingredients like pomegranate and pears bring festive flair and crunch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji)
Pears (like Bartlett or Anjou)
Oranges or clementines
Pomegranate seeds
Red or green grapes
Kiwi
Banana (optional, added just before serving)
Fresh lemon juice
Honey or maple syrup
Orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
Optional: chopped mint for garnish
Directions
Wash and dry all fruit thoroughly.
Core and chop apples and pears into bite-sized pieces. Peel and slice kiwi. Halve grapes and segment oranges or clementines.
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, orange juice, and honey (or maple syrup) to make the dressing.
In a large bowl, gently toss all the fruit together.
Pour the dressing over the fruit and toss lightly to coat.
Sprinkle pomegranate seeds and chopped mint on top.
Chill for 30 minutes before serving, if desired.
Servings and timing
Makes about 6–8 servings. Prep time: 20 minutes Chill time (optional): 30 minutes Total time: approx. 20–50 minutes
Variations
Add nuts or seeds: Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds add crunch (if nut allergies aren’t a concern).
Use dried fruits: Add dried cranberries or golden raisins for texture and sweetness.
Try different citrus: Use blood oranges or grapefruit for a bold twist.
Creamy version: Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or whipped topping for a dessert-style salad.
Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger adds a warm winter note.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add bananas or delicate fruits just before serving to avoid browning. No reheating needed—serve chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make this fruit salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep and mix the fruit a few hours in advance, but add bananas and dressing closer to serving time for freshness.
What fruits are best in winter?
Apples, pears, citrus, pomegranate, and grapes are widely available and taste great in cold-weather salads.
Will the apples and pears brown?
The lemon juice in the dressing helps slow oxidation and keeps the fruit fresh-looking.
Can I use canned fruit?
Fresh fruit is best, but canned mandarin oranges or pineapple (drained well) can be used in a pinch.
How do I make it sweeter?
Add more honey or maple syrup, or include sweeter fruits like ripe bananas or mango.
Is this fruit salad healthy?
Yes, it’s full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, with minimal added sugar.
Can I freeze winter fruit salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as most fruits will become mushy after thawing.
Is this good for holiday meals?
Absolutely! It’s a light and colorful addition to heavy holiday spreads.
What’s a good way to serve this?
Serve in a large glass bowl to show off the vibrant colors or scoop into small cups for individual servings.
Can I use a different dressing?
Yes, try a yogurt-based dressing or a citrus-ginger vinaigrette for variety.
Conclusion
Winter Fruit Salad is a fresh, vibrant way to enjoy seasonal produce even during the coldest months. With its juicy fruits and zesty citrus-honey dressing, it’s a versatile dish that can brighten up any table—from breakfast to dessert. Quick, healthy, and beautiful—this salad is a wintertime winner.
Winter Fruit Salad is a fresh and vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, citrus, grapes, and pomegranate, tossed in a light citrus-honey dressing. It’s a refreshing and healthy option for winter meals, perfect as a side dish, snack, or dessert.
Ingredients
2 apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji), chopped
2 pears (like Bartlett or Anjou), chopped
2 oranges or clementines, segmented
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
1 cup red or green grapes, halved
2 kiwi, peeled and sliced
1 banana, sliced (optional, added before serving)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons orange juice (fresh if possible)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
Optional: chopped fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
Wash and dry all fruit thoroughly.
Core and chop apples and pears into bite-sized pieces.
Peel and slice kiwi, halve grapes, and segment oranges or clementines.
In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, orange juice, and honey or maple syrup to create the dressing.
In a large bowl, gently combine all the prepared fruit.
Pour the dressing over the fruit and toss lightly to coat.
Sprinkle pomegranate seeds and chopped mint on top.
Chill for 30 minutes before serving, if desired.
Notes
Add banana just before serving to avoid browning.Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.Use fresh fruit for optimal taste and texture.Try different citrus fruits like blood orange or grapefruit for variation.Store leftovers in the fridge and consume within 2 days.
