Fall Fruit Salad With Apple Cider Vinaigrette

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This fall fruit salad is a revitalizing and easy way to enjoy the season’s best flavors, perfect for any occasion. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• It’s packed with crisp, juicy fruits like apples, pears, and grapes, offering a burst of natural sweetness in every bite.
• A hint of tangy lemon juice and honey drizzle adds a zesty, balanced twist that elevates the flavors.
• It’s simple to make, requiring just a few steps and no fancy equipment, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time savoring.

Recipe

Fall Fruit Salad is a revitalizing and nutritious dish perfect for autumn gatherings. Packed with seasonal fruits, it offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This salad is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit personal preferences.

Ingredients:

• 2 apples, diced
• 2 pears, diced
• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
• 1 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1 cup diced pineapple
• 1 orange, peeled and segmented
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, pears, grapes, pomegranate seeds, pineapple, and orange segments.
2. Add the chopped walnuts and dried cranberries.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using).
4. Drizzle the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss to coat evenly.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes:

• Feel free to substitute or add other seasonal fruits like persimmons or kiwi.
• For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds.
• To make it vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey.

Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Serving: 6-8 people

Nutrition

This fall fruit salad is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my fall fruit salad with complementary proteins like grilled chicken or roasted nuts for a satisfying meal. Seasonal side dishes, such as roasted sweet potatoes or a warm quinoa salad, add cozy flavors that match perfectly. It’s a simple way to make the salad feel like a complete, hearty dish.

Complementary Proteins

Pairing a fall fruit salad with complementary proteins can turn a simple dish into a satisfying meal. I love adding plant-based proteins like toasted walnuts, chickpeas, or quinoa for a hearty crunch. These protein pairings balance the sweetness of the fruit while keeping it light. A handful of pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of hemp hearts works too—they’re easy and pack a nutritious punch. If you’re not strictly plant-based, grilled chicken or turkey slices make a great match. The key is keeping it simple, so the flavors shine without overpowering the salad. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

Seasonal Side Dishes

A fall fruit salad is already a star on its own, but it’s even better when surrounded by seasonal side dishes that complement its flavors. I love pairing it with roasted seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or Brussels sprouts—their caramelized edges bring out the salad’s sweetness. A warm quinoa pilaf with autumn flavors, like cranberries and pecans, adds a cozy touch. Sometimes, I’ll serve it with a crusty whole-grain bread or a creamy pumpkin soup for extra comfort. These sides balance the salad’s freshness and make the meal feel complete, perfect for a crisp fall day.