Name: Bright & Fresh Fall Fruit Salad to Savor This Season
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 pcs Green Apples (Substitute with Granny Smith or any tart variety.); 2 pcs Red Apples (Fuji or Gala are excellent choices.); 1 cup Dried Cranberries (Raisins or dried cherries work well as substitutes.); 1 cup Pecans (Toast them before adding for extra flavor.); 2 cups Grapes (Seasonal berries make a delightful alternative.); 2 pcs Oranges (Mandarins or tangerines can add sweetness as substitutes.); 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (Lime juice is a suitable alternative.); 1/2 cup Orange Juice (Opt for freshly squeezed for the best flavor.); 1 tbsp White Sugar (Consider honey or maple syrup for a healthier choice.); 1 tsp Apple Pie Spice (Cinnamon can easily take its place.); 1 tsp Lemon Zest (Can be omitted if not available.)

As the crisp autumn air settles in, a delightful surprise awaits at the holiday table: my Thanksgiving Fruit Salad with Spiced Citrus Dressing. Bursting with a vibrant mix of crunchy green and red apples, juicy grapes, and zesty oranges, this festive side dish is not just a feast for the eyes—it’s ready in a mere 10 minutes! With the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, it serves as a refreshing complement to any holiday spread and can easily transition into a light dessert when topped with just a dollop of whipped cream. Plus, it’s vegan and vegetarian-friendly, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone at your gathering. What seasonal spices will you add to make it uniquely yours?

What makes this fruit salad special?

Vibrant flavors: This Thanksgiving Fruit Salad brings together a colorful mix of fresh fruits, perfectly balancing sweet and tangy. Quick prep: You can whip this up in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules. Versatility galore: Enjoy it as a side dish or a light dessert topped with whipped cream. Crowd-pleaser: With its vegan and vegetarian-friendly ingredients, it caters to everyone at your gathering. For more delightful options, try a Mediterranean Salad Zesty or an Asian Cucumber Salad alongside!

Thanksgiving Fruit Salad Ingredients

• Get ready for a colorful treat!

For the Fruit
Green Apples – Adds crispness and tartness; substitute with Granny Smith or any tart variety.
Red Apples – Offers sweetness and vibrant color contrast; Fuji or Gala are excellent choices.
Dried Cranberries – Provides chewy texture and tangy notes; raisins or dried cherries work well as substitutes.
Pecans – Introduces crunch and richness; toast them before adding for extra flavor, or use walnuts or almonds if preferred.
Grapes – Contributes sweetness and juiciness; seasonal berries make a delightful alternative.
Oranges – Brings bright citrus flavor; mandarins or tangerines can add sweetness as substitutes.
For the Dressing
Lemon Juice – Prevents apple browning and adds a hint of acidity; lime juice is a suitable alternative.
Orange Juice – The base for the dressing, providing natural sweetness; opt for freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
White Sugar – Sweetens the dressing; consider honey or maple syrup for a healthier choice.
Apple Pie Spice – Adds warming flavors to the dressing; cinnamon can easily take its place.
Lemon Zest – Enhances citrus aroma; can be omitted if not available.

This Thanksgiving fruit salad is perfect for anyone seeking a refreshing, quick, and vibrant side dish for their holiday feast!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Fruit Salad with Spiced Citrus Dressing

Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes or until they become fragrant and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as they can quickly go from perfectly toasted to overcooked. Once done, set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small saucepan, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, white sugar, apple pie spice, and lemon zest. Whisk these ingredients together over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, allowing the mixture to simmer gently until the sugar dissolves. Afterward, strain the dressing into a bowl to remove any sediment and let it cool while you prepare the fruits.

Step 3: Slice the Apples
Core both the green and red apples, then slice them into bite-sized pieces. As you cut, immediately toss the apple pieces in lemon juice to prevent browning and maintain their fresh appearance. This step is essential for your Thanksgiving fruit salad to keep it looking vibrant and inviting for your holiday gathering.

Step 4: Segment the Oranges
Peel the oranges and carefully cut them into segments, removing any seeds as you go. This juicy fruit not only adds a delightful sweetness but also provides bright pops of color to your Thanksgiving fruit salad. Set the orange segments aside, ready to join the other ingredients.

Step 5: Combine the Fruit
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, juicy grapes, and orange segments. Gently mix the ingredients together, avoiding any harsh stirring that could damage the fruit. This colorful blend creates a festive look that’s perfect for your holiday table and adds a variety of textures.

Step 6: Dress the Salad
Once the dressing has cooled down, drizzle it evenly over the combined fruit mixture in the large bowl. Using a large spoon, toss the salad gently to ensure all flavors meld beautifully together without bruising the delicate fruit. Serve the Thanksgiving fruit salad immediately for the freshest taste, and enjoy the lovely contrast of flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Room Temperature: If serving immediately, keep the Thanksgiving fruit salad at room temperature for only up to 2 hours to maintain the freshness of the fruit.
Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. However, be aware that the apples may brown slightly over time.
Freezer: For best quality, avoid freezing the salad as the texture of the fruits can become mushy; it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat the fruit salad; simply toss it gently before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Use Fresh Ingredients: Choose ripe, seasonal fruits for the best flavor. Fresh apples and tangy oranges make your Fall Fruit Salad vibrant and tasty.
Prevent Browning: Toss cut apples in lemon juice right after slicing. This simple trick keeps your fruit looking fresh and appealing throughout your gathering.
Cool Pecans Fully: Let toasted pecans cool completely before adding them to ensure they maintain their crunch in the Thanksgiving fruit salad.
Make Dressing Ahead: Prepare your spiced citrus dressing up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for convenience.
Serve Immediately: For fresh flavor and texture, serve the salad right after dressing. If storing, keep components separate and mix before serving to maintain quality.
Explore Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix in other seasonal fruits like pears or pomegranate seeds for a unique twist on your Fall Fruit Salad!

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Fruit Salad preparations are ideal for busy cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can slice the apples and toss them in lemon juice to prevent browning, which can be done up to 24 hours ahead. Keep the apples separate from the other fruits to maintain their crunch. When it’s time to serve, just mix all the components together—fruit, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and the dressing—and enjoy a refreshing salad that tastes just as delicious as if it were freshly made!

Fall Fruit Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Thanksgiving Fruit Salad and personalize it to fit your taste!

Add Pears: Diced pears bring extra sweetness and pair beautifully with the tangy dressing.
Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans for a nut-free salad that’s just as delightful!
Seasonal Berries: Mix in seasonal berries like blueberries or strawberries for a burst of flavor and color.
Spice it Up: For a zesty kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a delicious heat.
Honey Drizzle: Substitute white sugar in the dressing with honey for a natural sweetening option.
Lime Juice: Replace lemon juice with lime juice to give the salad a different citrus twist that’s refreshing.
Grapes Swap: Swap grapes with pomegranate seeds for an added crunch and pop of color, making it festive!
Other Nuts: If you prefer, try walnuts or slivered almonds as alternatives to pecans for different textures.

Enjoy experimenting, and if you’re looking for more vibrant side dish options, why not try a wonderful Hawaiian Chicken Salad or a colorful Lemon Shrimp Salad? Both will complement your holiday feast beautifully!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Fruit Salad with Spiced Citrus Dressing

This delicious fruit medley pairs beautifully with an array of dishes, creating a delightful holiday feast experience for everyone at your table.

Savory Stuffing: A rich stuffing brings a warmth and hearty contrast to the sweet, zesty flavors of the salad.
Roasted Turkey: The classic centerpiece of Thanksgiving adds a savory touch, allowing the freshness of the salad to shine alongside its succulent flavors.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These comforting spuds offer a smooth, buttery texture, providing a wonderful balance to the crispy and crunchy elements in your fruit salad.
Green Bean Casserole: With its creamy sauce and crispy topping, this dish complements the fruit salad’s sweetness and adds layers of savory goodness.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Fluffy and comforting, these rolls wrap up the meal nicely and are perfect for mopping up delicious dressings from your plate.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This refreshing drink amplifies the fruity flavors found in the salad, making for a sweet, fizzy addition to your holiday table.
Pumpkin Pie: A comforting slice of this iconic dessert will round out the meal with cozy autumn flavors that marry perfectly with your Thanksgiving feast.

Remember, each of these pairings enhances the overall experience, allowing your Thanksgiving Fruit Salad to be the centerpiece of a beautifully harmonious meal!

Thanksgiving Fruit Salad with Spiced Citrus Dressing Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best apples for my fruit salad?
Absolutely! Look for firm, unbruised apples with vibrant skin. Green apples, like Granny Smith, will add tartness, while red apples, such as Fuji or Gala, provide sweetness and color contrast. Avoid any apples with dark spots or a mealy texture for the best crunch.

How should I store leftover Thanksgiving fruit salad?
Leftover salad should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoyed within 1-2 days. The apples may brown slightly due to oxidation, but a quick toss before serving will revive its appearance. If you want to keep it fresh longer, store the components separately and combine them just before serving.

Can I freeze Thanksgiving fruit salad?
Unfortunately, it’s best to avoid freezing this salad. The texture of fruits like apples and grapes becomes mushy once thawed. Instead, enjoy it fresh! Preparing the components separately ahead of time can save you on a busy holiday morning without compromising quality.

What dietary considerations are there for this salad?
Very! This Thanksgiving fruit salad is vegan and vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. Just be cautious with allergies to nuts if you choose to add pecans or any other nut varieties and opt for a nut-free alternative if needed.

What if my apples start to brown before serving?
Not a problem! If you notice that your apples are browning, a quick remedy is to toss them with a bit more lemon juice or your dressing just before serving. Additionally, make sure to slice and dress your apples right before it’s time to enjoy the salad—this will help keep them looking fresh!