Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fruit Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with natural fruit flavors and colors
• Super simple: just chop and mix
• Creamy or juicy options—customize how you like it
• Great for picnics, potlucks, or as a light dessert
• Kids and adults alike enjoy its familiar, uplifting taste

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• A medley of fresh or canned fruits, such as:
  • Pineapple chunks
  • Seedless grapes
  • Mandarin oranges
  • Cherries or strawberries
  • Apple or pear pieces
• Optional: maraschino cherries or mini marshmallows for a sweet touch
• Optional binder:
  • A lightly sweetened cream mixture (e.g., sour cream or mayonnaise thinned with sugar and a bit of lemon juice)
  • Or a simple syrup or fruit juice for a lighter option

Directions

1. Prepare the fruit: Wash, slice, or drain all fruits as needed.
2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, gently combine the selected fruits.
3. Add extras: Fold in maraschino cherries or marshmallows if using.
4. Choose a binder:
   • For creamier texture, stir in a lightly sweetened creamy mixture.
   • For a lighter version, drizzle fruit juice or simple syrup and toss gently.
5. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
6. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh mint or cherry on top, if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Approximately 8–10 (depends on bowl size and portion)
• Prep time: 15–20 minutes (plus fruit chilling time)
• Total time: About 30–45 minutes including chilling

Variations

• Use seasonal fresh fruits, such as peaches, melon, or berries.
• Stir in cottage cheese for a protein boost and creamy texture.
• Substitute yogurt (plain or flavored) for a tangy twist.
• Add tropical flair with bananas, kiwi, or mango—add just before serving to prevent browning.
• Sprinkle chopped nuts or coconut for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2–3 days.
• Give it a gentle stir before serving if the juices separate.
• Avoid freezing, as fruit waters out and becomes mushy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fruit?

Yes—thaw completely and drain excess liquid before mixing.

Why add marshmallows?

They add a familiar, fun sweetness and a light, fluffy contrast to the fruit’s texture.

How do I keep apples from browning?

Toss sliced apples in a little lemon juice before mixing, or add them just before serving.

Can I substitute the creamy binder with yogurt?

Absolutely—plain or lightly sweetened yogurt gives a tangy, lighter version.

Is this suitable for dietary restrictions?

Yes—just pick dairy-free binder options (like nondairy yogurt) and choose fresh fruit.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes—but add softer fruits (like bananas) just before serving to keep their texture.

How do I make it less sweet?

Skip sugary syrups or marshmallows and opt for plain fruit juice or no binder at all.

What fruit combinations work best?

Mix varied textures and flavors: tart choices (pineapple, grapes) balance sweet ones (melons, oranges).

How do I prevent sogginess?

Drain canned fruit well, and refrain from over-mixing once combined.

Is this kid-friendly?

Definitely—colorful, fun, and easy to eat—kids often love helping assemble it too.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fruit Salad is timeless and easy, combining bright fruit flavors with just a touch of sweetness or creaminess. It’s a wonderful choice for any table—flexible, fresh, and full of warm memories.

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fruit Salad

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Grandma’s Old Fashioned Fruit Salad is a nostalgic, colorful mix of fresh or canned fruits, lightly dressed with either a creamy binder or fruit juice. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or summer gatherings, it’s refreshing, easy, and endlessly adaptable.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15–20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 30–45 minutes (including chilling)
• Yield: 8–10 servings
• Category: Side Dish, Dessert
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

1. 2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
2. 2 cups seedless grapes
3. 1 cup mandarin orange segments (drained if canned)
4. 1 cup strawberries or cherries, halved
5. 1 apple or pear, diced
6. Optional: 1/2 cup maraschino cherries
7. Optional: 1 cup mini marshmallows
8. Binder options:
   • 1 cup sour cream or mayonnaise mixed with 2–3 tbsp sugar and 1 tbsp lemon juice
   • OR 1/2 cup fruit juice or simple syrup for a lighter version

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Instructions

Prep fruit: Wash and slice fresh fruit; drain canned fruit well. Toss apples or pears in lemon juice to prevent browning.

1. Combine: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine pineapple, grapes, oranges, berries, and optional cherries or marshmallows.
2. Add binder: Stir in creamy mixture or drizzle with fruit juice/simple syrup. Fold gently to coat without crushing the fruit.
3. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to blend flavors.
4. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl; garnish with mint or a cherry if desired.

Notes

1. For a fresher taste, use seasonal fruits and add softer items like bananas right before serving.
2. Drain canned fruit thoroughly to avoid a watery salad.
3. For a tangy twist, substitute plain or vanilla yogurt for the creamy binder.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 160
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 15mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 5mg