Fall is a wonderful time to enjoy the flavors of the season. One delightful way to celebrate autumn is with a refreshing Apple Fruit Salad paired with a warm fall spice dressing. This recipe brings together crunchy apples, sweet grapes, and tart cranberries, all drizzled with a cozy blend of orange juice, honey, and warm spices. It’s a perfect dish for gatherings or just a simple meal at home.
Why make this recipe
This Apple Fruit Salad with Warm Fall Spice Dressing is not only tasty but also healthy! It’s packed with nutrients from the fresh fruits and nuts, making it a great choice for a light lunch or a snack. The warm dressing adds a unique twist that makes this salad stand out. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect dish for busy days or last-minute invitations.
How to prepare Apple Fruit Salad with Warm Fall Spice Dressing
Making this Apple Fruit Salad is a breeze. It comes together in just a few steps, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness in no time. Here’s how to prepare it:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups diced apples
- 1 cup halved grapes
- 1 cup segmented oranges
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup toasted nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, grapes, segmented oranges, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the orange juice, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until heated through.
- Drizzle the warm dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
How to serve Apple Fruit Salad with Warm Fall Spice Dressing
Serve the Apple Fruit Salad either warm or cold, depending on your preference. It makes a wonderful side dish for dinner or a tasty snack on its own. You can also add a dollop of yogurt or a scoop of ice cream on top for an extra treat!
How to store Apple Fruit Salad with Warm Fall Spice Dressing
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the dressing separate if you plan to eat it later, so the salad doesn’t get soggy. The salad can stay fresh for up to two days, but it tastes best when enjoyed soon after making it.
Tips to make Apple Fruit Salad with Warm Fall Spice Dressing perfectly
- Choose crisp apples for the best texture. Varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp work well.
- Toast the nuts lightly for added flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less honey to taste.
- Feel free to add other fruits you enjoy, like berries or pears, for more variety.
Variations
You can easily customize this salad to fit your taste. Consider adding:
- Fresh mint or basil for a burst of flavor.
- A sprinkle of granola for added crunch and nutrition.
- Different dried fruits like apricots or figs for new flavors.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the fruit ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the fruits fresh and crunchy.
Q: What nuts can I use in this salad?
A: You can use walnuts, pecans, or even almonds. Just make sure they are toasted for extra flavor.
Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: To make it vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and it will still taste delicious!
Enjoy making this fresh and vibrant Apple Fruit Salad with Warm Fall Spice Dressing, and bring a taste of fall to your table!
Apple Fruit Salad with Warm Fall Spice Dressing
A refreshing salad featuring crunchy apples, sweet grapes, and tart cranberries, drizzled with a warm spice dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced apples
- 1 cup halved grapes
- 1 cup segmented oranges
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup toasted nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, grapes, segmented oranges, dried cranberries, and toasted nuts.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the orange juice, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until heated through.
- Drizzle the warm dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container; keep dressing separate to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Apple, Fruit Salad, Fall Recipe, Healthy Snack, Autumn Dish