Fresh Fruit Salad Recipe for a Crowd

 A Fresh Fruit Salad is a refreshing and healthy option for a crowd, perfect for parties, picnics, or family gatherings. It's easy to prepare, can be made in advance, and can be customized with seasonal fruits. Here's a simple recipe that serves a large group:

Ingredients:

4 cups cubed watermelon

3 cups strawberries, hulled and halved

2 cups grapes (red or green), halved if large

2 cups pineapple, cubed

2 cups blueberries

2 cups cantaloupe or honeydew melon, cubed

1-2 oranges, peeled and segmented (optional)

1 apple or pear, cored and diced (optional for crunch)

1-2 tbsp fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

For the Dressing (optional):

2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for sweetness)

1 tbsp lime juice (or lemon juice)

Zest of 1 lime or lemon (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruit:

Wash all the fruits thoroughly.

Cube, slice, and dice the fruits as needed. For example, cut watermelon and cantaloupe into cubes, hull and halve strawberries, halve the grapes, and cut pineapple into bite-sized chunks. If using citrus, peel and segment the oranges.

If you’re adding apples or pears, dice them last to prevent browning. You can toss the apple or pear pieces in a little lemon juice to keep them fresh.

2. Make the Dressing (Optional):

In a small bowl, whisk together honey or maple syrup, lime or lemon juice, and zest (if using). The dressing helps bring all the flavors together and adds a touch of sweetness. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking.

3. Assemble the Salad:

In a large serving bowl, combine all the prepared fruits. Gently toss them together to evenly mix the different textures and flavors.

4. Add the Dressing:

Drizzle the dressing over the fruit salad and toss gently. Be careful not to mash the fruit; you just want to coat them lightly with the dressing.

5. Garnish and Serve:

Optionally, sprinkle fresh mint leaves over the salad for a refreshing aroma and a pop of color.

Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving. If making ahead, toss the dressing just before serving to prevent the fruit from becoming too soggy.

Tips:

Seasonal Variations: Feel free to adjust the fruits depending on what's in season. You can add peaches, plums, raspberries, or kiwi for more variety.

Citrus Flavor: For a zesty twist, you can add a little orange juice or lemon juice to the dressing, which enhances the fresh flavor.

Make Ahead: This fruit salad can be made a few hours in advance, but avoid adding the dressing too early to keep the fruit fresh and prevent it from becoming soggy.

Add-ins: For extra crunch or flavor, you can add a handful of nuts (like chopped walnuts or almonds) or some shredded coconut.

This Fresh Fruit Salad is versatile, colorful, and a great addition to any gathering. Enjoy the natural sweetness o

f the fruits paired with a light, tangy dressing for a crowd-pleasing dish!