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This vibrant spring fruit salad celebrates the season's freshest offerings with juicy pineapple, tangy kiwi, and sweet strawberries. The simple poppy seed dressing, made with fresh lemon and pure maple syrup, elevates these fruits into a refreshing dish perfect for brunches, potlucks, or as a light dessert.
I first made this salad for an Easter brunch and was amazed at how quickly it disappeared. Now it's my go to contribution for spring and summer gatherings where I need something impressive but effortless.
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries: Quartered. Choose bright red berries with no white shoulders for maximum sweetness
- Kiwi: Sliced into half moons. Look for fruits that yield slightly to gentle pressure
- Fresh pineapple: Cubed. Select one that smells sweet at the bottom and has vibrant green leaves
- Lemon: For zest and juice. Organic is best since you'll be using the outer peel
- Pure maple syrup: This natural sweetener adds complexity regular sugar cannot match
- Poppy seeds: These add a subtle nuttiness and beautiful visual contrast against the colorful fruits
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the dressing:
- Zest your lemon into a large bowl to capture the aromatic oils. Cut and juice the entire lemon into the same bowl. Add maple syrup and poppy seeds, then whisk thoroughly until the dressing is well combined. The lemon juice will brighten all the flavors while the maple syrup balances the acidity.
- Combine with fruits:
- Add your quartered strawberries, sliced kiwi, and cubed pineapple to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together until all fruit pieces are evenly coated with the dressing. This ensures every bite has the perfect flavor balance.
- Serve or refrigerate:
- You can serve immediately for the freshest texture, or refrigerate until ready to serve. The flavors will meld together over time, becoming even more delicious as the fruits absorb the dressing.
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The poppy seed dressing is what truly transforms this from ordinary fruit salad to something special. I discovered its magic when trying to avoid the overly sweet heavy dressings most fruit salads rely on. The slight crunch from the poppy seeds against the soft fruits creates a wonderful textural contrast.
Seasonal Variations
Spring and summer are ideal seasons for this fruit salad, but you can adapt it year round. In summer, add fresh berries and peaches. Fall versions work beautifully with apples, pears, and grapes. Winter adaptations might include citrus segments, pomegranate, and bananas. The dressing remains the same, acting as the perfect unifier for whatever fruits are in season.
Nutritional Benefits
This fruit salad isn't just delicious it's nutritionally powerful too. Strawberries provide vitamin C and antioxidants, while kiwi offers more vitamin C than an orange. Pineapple contains enzymes that aid digestion and reduce inflammation. The lemon juice not only adds flavor but helps prevent browning and provides additional vitamin C. Even the poppy seeds contribute minerals like calcium and magnesium in small amounts.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad pairs beautifully with so many dishes. Serve alongside a savory quiche or frittata for brunch. Add it to your summer barbecue spread for a refreshing counterpoint to grilled foods. For dessert, spoon it over vanilla ice cream or pound cake. It also makes a wonderful breakfast topping for yogurt or oatmeal, adding natural sweetness and nutrients to start your day.
Storage Tips
For best results, consume this salad within 24 hours of preparation. As the salad sits, the fruits will continue to release their juices, creating more liquid at the bottom of the bowl. Give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing. If you need to prepare further in advance, keep the dressing separate and combine just before serving. Leftover salad will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 3 days, though textures will soften over time.
Common Queries
- → What fruits work best for this dish?
Fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and pineapple are ideal, but you can also add grapes, blueberries, or cubed apples for variety.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a day ahead. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and toss again before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- → How long does this dish last in the fridge?
It can be stored for 2 to 3 days, though the fruit will soften over time and may release juices. It’s best enjoyed within a few hours of preparation.
- → What can I use as a substitute for maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup are great alternatives to maple syrup if you'd like a similar sweetness and texture in the dressing.
- → Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor in the dressing, but you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch.