Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad

Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad

Introduction:

Celebrate the flavors of fall with this Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad. This dish combines the crisp textures and sweet flavors of seasonal fruits with the rich nuttiness of pecans, all brought together with a zesty dressing. Perfect as a healthy dessert or a side dish for your autumn gatherings, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 large apples, diced (choose a variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp for sweetness)
• 2 cups red seedless grapes, halved
• 2 ripe pears, diced
• 1 cup celery, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruit: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, grapes, pears, and sliced celery. Add the dried cranberries and toss gently to mix.
2. Toast the Pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans until they are aromatic and slightly browned, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once toasted, coarsely chop the pecans and add them to the bowl with the fruit.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
4. Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the fruit and nuts and stir gently until everything is well coated. Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and flavors. Serve chilled.

Conclusion: This Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad is a wonderful way to enjoy the bounty of the season. It’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to include your favorite fall fruits and is perfect for a healthy snack, a light dessert, or a festive side. The combination of fresh fruits, crunchy nuts, and a creamy, spiced dressing makes it a delightful treat that’s sure to be a hit at any meal.

Enjoy this fresh and flavorful Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad, and may it bring a taste of the fall season to your table!