This sweet and fruity dessert salad is quick to make and irresistibly delicious! The combination of tropical fruits, cherry pie filling, and bananas creates a rich and vibrant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
1 (15 oz) can fruit cocktail, drained (chunky tropical is preferred)
1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
2 bananas, sliced
Optional Additions: Mini marshmallows, shredded coconut, or whipped cream
Instructions
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained fruit cocktail, crushed pineapple, and cherry pie filling. Stir gently to combine.
Add Bananas
Just before serving, fold in the sliced bananas to prevent them from browning.
Optional Add-Ins
If desired, mix in mini marshmallows or shredded coconut for extra texture and sweetness.
Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve
Serve the fruit salad cold. Top with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Tips for Success
Banana Browning: To keep the bananas from browning, toss them in a bit of lemon or pineapple juice before adding them to the salad.
Customization: Add other fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or mandarin oranges to enhance the flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
This Better Than Sex Fruit Salad is incredibly easy to make, vibrant, and packed with tropical flavors. It’s perfect for potlucks, parties, or as a sweet treat after dinner.
Here are some tasty variations you can try for your fruity dessert salad:
- Berry Blast: Substitute the fruit cocktail with a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. This will add a refreshing tartness to the salad.
- Coconut Cream: Add shredded coconut and swap the cherry pie filling for coconut cream pudding for a tropical twist. You can also top it with whipped cream for extra creaminess.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. This pairs well with the sweetness of the fruits.
- Citrus Zing: Add some citrus by including segments of oranges or grapefruit. This will brighten the flavors and add a zesty kick.
- Yogurt Dressing: Instead of cherry pie filling, mix in a flavored yogurt (like vanilla or coconut) to create a creamy dressing that complements the fruits.
Here are some tips to enhance your fruity dessert salad:
- Use Fresh Fruits: Whenever possible, incorporate fresh fruits along with the canned ones for added flavor and texture. Fresh pineapple, mango, or kiwi can elevate the dish.
- Add a Splash of Citrus: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice can brighten the flavors and help prevent bananas from browning.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Layer for Presentation: For a more visually appealing dish, layer the ingredients in a clear serving bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the fruits.
- Customize to Taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness by adding honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter salad, or balance it out with a pinch of salt.
To store your fruity dessert salad, follow these steps:
- Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the salad into an airtight container to keep it fresh. This will help prevent the fruits from drying out and absorbing odors from the fridge.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Place the container in the refrigerator as soon as possible. The salad is best enjoyed when chilled, and refrigeration helps maintain its freshness.
- Consume Within a Few Days: For the best taste and texture, try to eat the salad within 2-3 days. Some fruits may start to break down and lose their quality after that time.
- Avoid Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze the salad, as the texture of the fruits can become mushy once thawed.
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your dessert salad while keeping it fresh and delicious!
Enjoy the fruity goodness!