Easy Fruit Salad
What do you think of when I say the word “salad”? Bland? Boring? Flavorless? Gross? How about Juicy! Sweet! Yummy! Flavorful! After you try this salad, this is what you will think of… this easy FRUIT salad!
We are making a fruit salad today at Go2Kitchens. We are using very common fruit that is normally found in most homes. Apples, strawberries, and oranges oh my! The only ingredient that you might say is a little out of the norm are the mission figs that bring such an amazing texture to the salad. They add a beautiful flavor profile with a little chewiness and crunchiness that will really elevate a regular fruit salad.
I use figs from the Valley Fig because I really think they are superior in taste! I like to pair mine with some dark chocolate as a snack or add them in recipes for an unexpected flavor profile. Not only are they delicious, but 5 figs will provide you with 20% of your daily fiber which keeps you feeling full, 6% of your daily calcium for healthy bones and teeth, and 7% of your daily potassium which supports healthy blood pressure. You can read more about the Valley Fig company at their website here and read why their figs are simply the best!
Did you know studies have shown that eating a diet rich in fruit may reduce the risk of stroke, type -2 diabetes, and other cardiovascular diseases? A variety of fruit also provides your body with plenty of vitamins and minerals. For example, one apple provides 14% of your daily vitamin C and one cup of strawberries provides 29% of your daily manganese. Another reason it’s great for your body to eat more fruit is the water content factor. Our bodies are more than 60% water and it has been shown that around 70% of people are in a state of chronic dehydration! Dehydration can lead to all sorts of health problems, so why not battle that by upping your fruits and vegetables! The fruit in this salad will hydrate you on those hot summer days (but don’t forget to keep drinking your water too!)
On top of the fruit and figs, I’ve also included fresh basil and lime juice for a fresh, bright flavor to this particular fruit salad, and then I’ve topped the salad with a sweet coconut whip to take it to the next level! The coconut whip adds healthy fats to the salad and there’s nothing better than a bite with chewy figs, crunchy apples, juicy orange, and sweet and creamy whip! This fruit salad hits all the texture, flavor, and taste boxes!
So check out the recipe below and get ready to be asked to make this salad at all of your summer gatherings. You’ll be known as the “Fruit Salad” person from here on out!
Try a simple fruit salad in the warmer months. A delightful mixture of sweet flavors and perfect for the hotter months or picnic table!
- 1 sweet organic apple, fuji or honey crisp, diced
- 1 tbsp lemon or lime juice
- 1 orange, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup dried mission fig, chopped
- 8 organic strawberries, chopped
- 2 fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 banana, chopped
- 1 can full fat coconut milk, chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup raw walnuts
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Chop all fruit. Add to a bowl. Add banana last and fold carefully to mix.
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Mix gently in a bowl. Add lemon juice and mix again. Set aside.
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From the can of coconut milk, scrape out solidified coconut fat. Place into a bowl.
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Add, cinnamon, vanilla, and honey.
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Using a stick blender or hand mixer blend well.
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Layer fruit salad and coconut whip in a trifle dish or in parfait glasses. Starting with fruit salad and ending with coconut whip.
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Serve chilled topped with walnuts.
