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Introduction
Tropical fruit salads have long been a staple of island cuisine, offering a burst of sunshine in every bite. This particular recipe draws inspiration from the lush rainforests and pristine beaches of the Caribbean, where an abundance of exotic fruits grows in harmony. The addition of a lime dressing is a nod to the region's love for citrus, which not only adds a tangy kick but also helps to preserve the fruits' vibrant colors. Whether you're looking to bring a taste of the tropics to your next summer barbecue or simply craving a healthy, refreshing snack, this fruit salad is sure to transport your taste buds to a balmy paradise.
Ingredients
• 2 cups ripe mango, peeled and cubed (about 2 medium mangoes)
• 2 cups fresh pineapple, cored and cubed
• 2 cups ripe papaya, peeled, seeded, and cubed (about 1 medium papaya)
• 2 kiwi fruits, peeled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon lime zest
• Pinch of sea salt
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Step 1:
Wash all fruits thoroughly under cold running water.
Step 2:
Peel and cube the mangoes, pineapple, and papaya. Place the cubed fruits in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3:
Peel and slice the kiwi fruits. Add the kiwi slices to the bowl with the other fruits.
Step 4:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, lime zest, and a pinch of sea salt until well combined.
Step 5:
Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss to coat all the fruits evenly.
Step 6:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 7:
Before serving, give the fruit salad a gentle stir. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Q: Can I make this fruit salad ahead of time?
A: While it's best served fresh, you can prepare it up to 2 hours in advance. Add the kiwi just before serving to prevent it from softening other fruits.
Q: Is this recipe vegan?
A: The recipe contains honey, which is not considered vegan. However, you can easily make it vegan by substituting the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Q: Can I use frozen fruits for this salad?
A: Fresh fruits are recommended for the best texture and flavor. Frozen fruits tend to become mushy when thawed and may alter the consistency of the salad.
• Choose ripe, fragrant fruits for the best flavor. Mangoes and papayas should yield slightly to gentle pressure.
• For a variation, you can substitute strawberries or oranges for any of the tropical fruits.
• If you prefer a sweeter dressing, increase the honey to 2 tablespoons.
• This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan (if using maple syrup instead of honey).
• For best results, prepare the fruit salad just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent the fruits from becoming too soft.
Serve chilled in individual bowls or as a side dish. For a more elegant presentation, use martini glasses or hollowed-out pineapple halves.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fruits may soften and release juices over time.
Prepare the dressing while the cut fruits are chilling in the refrigerator to save time.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the fruits for clean edges and to prevent bruising.
- Taste the fruits before adding the dressing and adjust the honey amount if needed based on the natural sweetness of the fruits.
- To prevent the kiwi from making other fruits mushy, add it just before serving if you're not planning to eat the salad immediately.
For a creamier version, fold in 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt or coconut cream. You can also add a handful of toasted coconut flakes or chopped macadamia nuts for crunch.
Serve with a glass of chilled Prosecco or a tropical smoothie. This salad pairs well with grilled fish or as a refreshing dessert after a spicy meal.
Best made in summer when tropical fruits are at their peak, but can be enjoyed year-round with good quality fruits.
This recipe contains fruits (mango, pineapple, papaya, kiwi) which may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. It also contains honey, which is not suitable for infants under 12 months or those with honey allergies.
