Name: Fall Fruit Salad with a Zesty Citrus Twist for Festive Gatherings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 medium Green Apples (Provide crunch and a tart flavor; substitute with green pears for a softer texture.); 2 medium Red Apples (Add sweetness; substitute with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for extra sweetness.); 1 cup Dried Cranberries (Introduce a sweet-tart flavor; raisins or chopped dates can be used instead.); 1 cup Pecans (Offer a crunchy texture; substitute with almonds or walnuts.); 2 cups Grapes (Use seedless varieties for easy snacking.); 2 medium Navel Oranges (Segment for fresh bursts of flavor; mandarins or clementines can be substituted.); 1/4 cup Lemon Juice (Prevents apple browning; mix with lime juice for a twist.); 1/2 cup Orange Juice (Main component for sweetness; fresh lemon juice works well too.); 2 tablespoons White Sugar (Balances the dressing’s flavors; try honey or agave syrup.); 1 teaspoon Apple Pie Spice (Adds warm flavors; substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Enhances citrus flavors.); 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (Enhances citrus flavors.)

As the crisp autumn air settles in, I find myself drawn to the vibrant colors of seasonal produce—especially when it comes to a delightful Thanksgiving Fruit Salad. This recipe is not just any side dish; it’s a quick 10-minute creation that brings together the perfect harmony of crunchy apples, sweet grapes, and tangy oranges, all drenched in a spiced citrus dressing that tantalizes the senses. It’s ideal for those looking to add a refreshing and healthy twist to their holiday meals—vegan-friendly and bursting with nutrients too! Whether your gathering is intimate or grand, this vibrant medley is sure to leave your guests raving. What’s your favorite fruit to include in a holiday salad?

What makes this salad a must-try?

Vibrant Colors: This fruit salad is a feast for the eyes, featuring a rainbow of fruits that not only look great but also taste amazing.
Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delightful dish without a hassle.
Healthy & Delicious: Packed with vitamins and fiber, it’s a guilt-free choice for those mindful of their wellness.
Versatility: Perfect as a side for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering, it complements a plethora of main dishes.
Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone, from health enthusiasts to dessert lovers, will adore this refreshing twist on classic flavors. For more inspired side dish ideas, check out our Fruit Salad Refreshing and Quinoa Chickpea Salad recipes!

Thanksgiving Fruit Salad Ingredients

• Craft your holiday masterpiece with these fresh ingredients!

For the Salad

Green Apples – Provide crunch and a tart flavor; substitute with green pears for a softer texture.
Red Apples – Add sweetness and vivid color; feel free to swap with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for extra sweetness.
Dried Cranberries – Introduce a sweet-tart flavor; you can use raisins or chopped dates instead if preferred.
Pecans – Offer a crunchy texture and richness; almonds or walnuts make tasty alternatives.
Grapes – Bring sweetness and juiciness; choose seedless varieties for easy snacking.
Navel Oranges – Provide juicy segments and fresh bursts of flavor; mandarins or clementines can be substituted for convenience.

For the Dressing

Lemon Juice – Prevents apple browning and adds brightness; mix with lime juice for a delightful twist.
Orange Juice – The main component of the dressing for sweetness and acidity; fresh lemon juice works well too for a tangier flavor.
White Sugar – Balances the dressing’s flavors; try honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener.
Apple Pie Spice – Adds warm, fall flavors; if unavailable, cinnamon or a quick homemade blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger will do.
Lemon and Orange Zest – Enhance the citrus flavors in the dressing, contributing to that delicious spiced citrus dressing.

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 evenly on a lined baking sheet and toast them for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are fragrant and slightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, then remove from the oven and let them cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Citrus Dressing
In a small saucepan, mix together the orange juice, white sugar, apple pie spice, and the zests of the lemon and orange. Place the saucepan over medium heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened. Once done, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Chop the Fruits
Core and slice the green and red apples into bite-sized pieces, tossing them immediately with lemon juice to prevent browning. Next, peel and segment the navel oranges, removing any seeds. Then, wash and halve the grapes if desired, ensuring they’re fresh and sweet for the salad.

Step 4: Combine the Fruit
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, halved grapes, and orange segments. Gently fold the ingredients together to mix them well, being careful not to mush the fruit. The bright colors will create an enticing visual for your Thanksgiving fruit salad.

Step 5: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the cooled spiced citrus dressing over the assembled fruit mixture. With a gentle hand, toss everything together to ensure the dressing coats each piece of fruit evenly, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully. Serve immediately for the freshest taste or refrigerate until ready to enjoy at your festive gathering.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Thanksgiving Fruit Salad ahead of time is a fantastic way to save valuable moments during the holiday rush! You can make the spiced citrus dressing and toast the pecans up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. To help prevent browning, slice the apples and toss them with lemon juice up to 24 hours ahead—just keep them stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, combine all the fruit ingredients with the dressing and pecans, tossing gently to maintain freshness. This way, you’ll impress your guests with a delightful dish requiring minimal effort on the big day!

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Fridge: Store the assembled salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep it chilled to maintain freshness, but be aware that the apples may brown slightly over time.

Dressing: Make the spiced citrus dressing ahead of time and refrigerate it in a sealed jar for up to 3 days. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid keeping the salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours, especially during gatherings, to ensure food safety and quality.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this Thanksgiving Fruit Salad as the fruits will become mushy once thawed, affecting the delightful texture. Serve fresh for the best experience!

Fall Fruit Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore the delicious possibilities and personalize your Thanksgiving Fruit Salad to suit your taste buds!

Dairy-Free Dressing: Substitute regular yogurt with almond or coconut yogurt for a dairy-free creamy option.
Citrus Lover’s Twist: Add grapefruit segments for an unexpected tart flavor that complements the sweetness of the other fruits.
Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch that everyone can enjoy, especially if allergies are a concern.
Herbal Infusion: Mix in fresh mint or basil for a refreshing herbal twist to brighten the flavor profile of your salad.
Spicy Kick: Toss in a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the dressing for those who enjoy a little heat.
Swap Out Fruits: Use seasonal fruits like pomegranates or persimmons instead of traditional options for an autumn twist. They can really elevate the salad’s festive vibes!
Extra Texture: Incorporate toasted coconut flakes or chia seeds to add unique textures that make each bite more exciting.
Honeyed Finish: Drizzle a bit of honey over the salad before serving for a touch of added sweetness that harmonizes perfectly.

For more delightful fruit combinations, check out our Spring Confetti Salad and add a new twist to your holiday gatherings!

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Ingredient Freshness: Use the freshest fruits for the best flavor and crunch. Avoid fruits that show signs of over-ripeness or browning to keep your Thanksgiving Fruit Salad vibrant.
Dressing Ahead: Prepare the spiced citrus dressing a day in advance to save time. Letting the flavors meld overnight enhances the taste!
Fruit Prepping: Toss apple slices in lemon juice immediately after cutting. This prevents browning and keeps your salad looking fresh and inviting throughout your gathering.
Texture Balance: For added crunch, consider mixing in some toasted coconut or seeds along with the nuts. This will elevate the texture of your Thanksgiving Fruit Salad, making each bite delightful!
Serving Cold: Serve the fruit salad chilled for maximum freshness. If making ahead, refrigerate it after dressing to ensure it maintains its crunch and visual appeal.

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Fruit Salad with Spiced Citrus Dressing

As you prepare for the festivities, consider these delightful pairings that will elevate your holiday meal into a feast of flavor and warmth.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This classic, buttery side offers a rich contrast to the crispness of the fruit salad, creating a comforting combination.
Herb-Roasted Turkey: The savory, herby notes from the turkey beautifully balance the sweetness of the fruit, enhancing every bite of your Thanksgiving spread.
Warm Bread Rolls: Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up the zesty flavors of the salad, adding warmth and heartiness to your table.

Indulge guests of all ages with a sparkling apple cider. Not only is it festive, but its fruity effervescence pairs splendidly with the fruit salad’s vibrant flavors.

Sweet Potato Casserole: The rich sweetness of this classic dish harmonizes with the tangy fruit, adding a delightful warmth that’s perfect for the season.
Pumpkin Pie: A timeless dessert that complements the salad’s freshness, providing a lovely close to a memorable holiday meal filled with family and cheer.

With these thoughtful pairings, your Thanksgiving Fruit Salad will shine as part of a beautifully balanced and inviting holiday feast. Enjoy the celebration of flavors!

Thanksgiving Fruit Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for the salad?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, select firm and unblemished green and red apples, avoiding those with dark spots or soft areas. The grapes should be plump and juicy, while navel oranges should feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. Fresh cranberries should bounce back when gently pressed, so look for bright, shiny ones at the store!

How should I store leftover Thanksgiving Fruit Salad?
Very important! To keep your Thanksgiving Fruit Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Remember, while it’s best enjoyed fresh, you may notice slight browning of the apples over time due to oxidation. To minimize browning, you can toss apple pieces in lemon juice if you’re planning to store leftovers.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Of course! I often prepare the spiced citrus dressing a day in advance and store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This not only saves you time on the day of your gathering but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a gentle shake before drizzling it over your salad!

How do I prevent the fruits from browning?
Here’s a simple tip: after slicing your apples, toss them immediately in lemon juice. This acidic environment slows down the enzymatic browning process, keeping them looking crisp and fresh for your Thanksgiving Fruit Salad. Additionally, be sure to assemble the salad close to serving time for the best presentation.

Can I freeze Thanksgiving Fruit Salad?
No, it’s best not to freeze this salad. Freezing can lead to mushy fruits after thawing, compromising their delightful texture. To enjoy this festive dish at its finest, serve it fresh. I promise the vibrant flavors and crunchy textures are worth that extra effort!

Any dietary considerations for this dish?
Certainly! This Thanksgiving Fruit Salad is naturally vegan and vegetarian, making it a wonderful choice for various dietary preferences. However, if serving to guests with nut allergies, feel free to substitute pecans with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy alternative. Always check for any specific allergies amongst your guests to ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!