Name: Delicious Fall Fruit Salad with Spiced Citrus Zing
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Green Apples (Add crunch and tartness; substitute with Granny Smith for extra zing.); 2 cups Red Apples (Provides sweetness; Fuji or Gala are excellent alternatives.); 1 cup Dried Cranberries (Infuses sweetness; swap for raisins if preferred.); 1 cup Pecans (Contributes richness; walnuts can be a nut-free option.); 2 cups Grapes (Brings juiciness; any seedless variety works.); 2 cups Oranges (Offers bright citrus flavor; mandarins or clementines work well.); 1/4 cup Lemon Juice (Prevents browning of apples; cider vinegar can be used instead.); 1/2 cup Orange Juice (Base for dressing; fresh juice is best.); 2 tablespoons White Sugar (Balances acidity; honey or maple syrup can substitute.); 1 teaspoon Apple Pie Spice (Introduces warm spice; replace with pumpkin pie spice if desired.); 1 teaspoon Lemon Zest (Elevates flavor; lime zest can be an interesting twist.); 1 teaspoon Orange Zest (Enhances aroma and flavor depth.)

As I stood in the kitchen, the scent of autumn wafting through the open window, a wonderful idea struck me: why not bring the vibrant spirit of the season to the table with a Thanksgiving Fruit Salad? This beautiful creation combines the crispness of green and red apples, the sweetness of grapes, and the zesty burst of oranges, all harmonized by a homemade spiced citrus dressing. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this vegan-friendly, healthy side dish that not only dazzles the eye but also refreshes the palate. It’s a delightful alternative to heavier holiday fare and sure to be a hit at any gathering—making it both a crowd-pleaser and a quick triumph for busy home chefs. Are you ready to brighten up your holiday table?

Why Is This Salad a Fall Favorite?

Vibrant Colors: The beautiful mix of red and green apples, juicy grapes, and sunny oranges brings the essence of fall right to your table.

Quick Preparation: In just 10 minutes, you can create a stunning dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for those busy holiday prep days!

Versatile Serving: This salad shines as a side dish for Thanksgiving or even as a light brunch addition. Pair it with a savory dish or enjoy it solo!

Nutritious Delight: Packed with fiber and essential nutrients, this salad is a guilt-free indulgence. A great complement to other healthy recipes like Quinoa Chickpea Salad or Fruit Salad Refreshing.

Homemade Zing: The spiced citrus dressing elevates the flavor profile, making it a delightful addition to your holiday spread.

Fall Fruit Salad Ingredients

• Enjoy crafting this delicious Fall Fruit Salad by gathering these vibrant ingredients!

For the Fruit Salad

Green Apples – Adds a crunchy texture and tartness; substitute with Granny Smith for extra zing.
Red Apples – Provides sweetness and further crunch; Fuji or Gala make excellent alternatives.
Dried Cranberries – Infuses sweetness and chewiness; swap for raisins to change up the flavor.
Pecans – Contributes richness and crunch; use walnuts or leave them out for a nut-free option.
Grapes – Brings juiciness and sweetness; any seedless variety pairs wonderfully.
Oranges – Offers bright citrus flavor; mandarins or clementines work just as well.

For the Dressing

Lemon Juice – Prevents browning of apples while adding brightness; cider vinegar can be used as a substitute.
Orange Juice – This is the base for the dressing; fresh juice is best, but bottled works in a pinch.
White Sugar – Balances the dressing’s acidity; honey or maple syrup can provide a sweeter twist.
Apple Pie Spice – Introduces warm spice notes; swap for pumpkin pie spice for a different touch.
Lemon Zest – Elevates the flavor with freshness; lime zest would add an interesting twist.
Orange Zest – Enhances aroma and flavor depth; trust me, it adds a zing like no other!

Your beautiful Fall Fruit Salad awaits! Can’t wait for you to share this delightful dish at your holiday gatherings!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will ensure an easy cleanup after toasting the pecans. Once the oven reaches temperature, you’ll be ready to add your nuts for a delightful crunch in your Thanksgiving fruit salad.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans
Place the pecans evenly on the prepared baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Toast the pecans for about 5-7 minutes or until they are fragrant and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as nuts can go from perfect to overdone quickly. Once toasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool before adding to the salad.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium saucepan, combine fresh orange juice, white sugar, apple pie spice, lemon zest, and orange zest. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until it reaches a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly, then remove it from heat. Strain the dressing through a fine-mesh sieve to eliminate any spice residues and let it cool before drizzling over your Thanksgiving fruit salad.

Step 4: Prepare the Fruit
While the dressing cools, wash and core the apples, slicing them into bite-sized pieces to maintain a good texture. Toss the apple slices with a little lemon juice to prevent browning. Next, peel and segment the oranges, removing any seeds if necessary. You’re now ready to combine these bright fruits for your colorful Thanksgiving fruit salad.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the apple slices, dried cranberries, cooled toasted pecans, grapes, and orange segments. Drizzle the spiced citrus dressing over the fruit mixture, ensuring everything gets coated evenly. Toss gently with a large spoon, being careful not to mash the fruit, so your Thanksgiving fruit salad remains visually appealing.

Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once everything is combined, your Thanksgiving fruit salad is ready to serve! For the best freshness, enjoy it immediately after preparing. However, if needed, you can refrigerate the salad in an airtight container until you’re ready to wow your guests. This vibrant dish will add a refreshing touch to your holiday spread!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Embrace the joy of seasonal flavors by creating a complete meal that harmonizes deliciously with your Thanksgiving Fruit Salad!

Savory Roast Turkey: A classic holiday dish that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the salad, offering a delightful balance of flavors.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth and buttery texture complements the crunchy fruit salad perfectly, creating a satisfying contrast on the palate.

Enjoy a cozy gathering over a glass of apple cider, where the sweet and spicy notes in both drinks and dishes energize the mood.

Fresh Spinach Salad: A simple, crisp side that brings another layer of freshness while tying in earthy flavors with a vinaigrette dressing.
Stuffing: The savory spices of stuffing work in harmony with the zesty fruit salad, creating a beautiful medley of holiday flavors on the plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly crispy and caramelized edges add a delightful crunch and depth, complementing the fruity sweetness beautifully.
Pumpkin Soup: Warm, hearty, and fragrant, it provides a comforting counterbalance to the refreshing crunch and zing of the salad.
Sparkling Water with Lime: This refreshing drink keeps things light and bubbly, making it a great option alongside the vibrant salad and heavier dishes.
Apple Crisp: End your meal with a warm dessert that captures the essence of fall, providing a sweet finale that echoes the fruit salad’s freshness.

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Stay Fresh: Assemble the salad just before serving to retain the texture and flavor of the fruits, preventing sogginess.
Clever Substitutions: If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut fruit or ready-made citrus dressing to simplify your preparation.
Zest for Flavor: Make sure to use fresh zest in your spiced citrus dressing; it enhances the overall taste of your Thanksgiving fruit salad significantly.
Nut-Free Alternatives: If allergies are a concern, feel free to skip the pecans entirely or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch.
Double the Dressing: If you love the dressing, make a little extra and keep it handy for drizzling over other dishes or even for a refreshing fruit dip later!

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fruit may brown slightly but will still taste delicious in this Thanksgiving fruit salad.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the fruit can become mushy once thawed.

Preparation Ahead: Feel free to prepare the dressing up to three days in advance and keep it in the fridge to save time on the day of serving.

Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold and fresh, so there’s no need to reheat. Just toss the ingredients together and serve immediately after assembling!

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Fruit Salad preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the spiced citrus dressing up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimum freshness. For the fruit, slice the apples and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before serving. Just before serving, combine the prepped ingredients—apples, grapes, oranges, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans—with the dressing. This way, you’ll have a vibrant Thanksgiving Fruit Salad that’s just as delicious, making your holiday meal planning a breeze!

Fall Fruit Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste and preferences!

Pear Swap: Substitute green apples with diced pears for a softer, sweeter bite. Pears add a lovely texture that pairs beautifully with the other fruits.
Pomegranate Magic: Sprinkle in pomegranate seeds for a delightful burst of flavor and added color. These jewels of autumn not only look stunning but also provide a tangy crunch.
Nutty Choices: Try using cashews or almonds instead of pecans for a different flavor profile. Each nut brings its unique taste and texture to the fruit salad, enhancing your dish!
Citrus Variety: Replace oranges with tangerines or grapefruits for a unique citrus experience. This twist will give your salad a refreshing and slightly different zing.
Sweetener Twist: Swap white sugar for agave syrup or coconut sugar for a healthier alternative. These options bring natural sweetness without compromising on flavor.
Herb Infusion: Add a hint of fresh mint or basil for an aromatic touch. Their fragrance complements the fruit wonderfully, setting the scene for a fresh flavor journey.
Spice It Up: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for an unexpected kick. This heat balances the sweetness beautifully and adds intrigue to every bite!
Berry Goodness: Toss in a handful of fresh blueberries or raspberries for added freshness and color. They create delightful pops of tartness amid the sweetness of your fruit salad.

Remember, you can always enjoy this recipe alongside other light and healthy options like Spring Confetti Salad for a vibrant holiday feast. Happy customizing!

Thanksgiving Fruit Salad with Spiced Citrus Dressing Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best apples for this salad?
Absolutely! When choosing apples, look for firm specimens without any dark spots or significant bruises. Crisp varieties like Granny Smith for tartness and Fuji or Gala for sweetness work beautifully. Aim for apples that are vibrant and free from blemishes for the best crunch!

How should I store leftover Thanksgiving Fruit Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fruit may brown slightly due to oxidation, but don’t worry—it’ll still taste delicious! Just give it a gentle toss before serving again to revive the colors and the flavors.

Can I freeze Thanksgiving Fruit Salad for later use?
It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the texture of the fruit will change and can become mushy upon thawing. If you wish to prepare ahead, you can make the dressing up to three days in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the salad shortly before serving for the best results.

What should I do if my dressing is too thick?
If your dressing turns out thicker than expected, simply whisk in a teaspoon of warm water or additional orange juice, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. This should create a more pourable dressing for your salad while maintaining its scrumptious flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergens?
Very! Be mindful that ingredients like grapes and certain nuts can be harmful to pets, so it’s best to keep this salad away from furry friends. Also, if you’re serving guests with nut allergies, you can omit the pecans entirely or use seeds like pumpkin or sunflower as a substitute for a crunchy texture.

How can I prepare this salad in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the dressing up to three days ahead and keep it stored in the fridge. Chop your apples and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning, and prepare the pecans in advance as well. Simply combine everything just before serving to keep that fresh and vibrant touch in your Thanksgiving Fruit Salad!