20-Minute Honey-Lime Fruit Salad Cups
This easy, no-cook Honey Lime Fruit Salad blends pineapple, mandarin oranges, kiwi, grapes, and strawberries with a honey-lime dressing and a sprinkle of poppy seeds. Quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors, it’s a nutritious, fiber-rich, and low-fat side dish perfect for everyday meals or entertaining.
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Citrus Zester
- Measuring Spoons (1 tbsp, 1 tsp)
- serving spoon
- Colander
Ingredients
- 1 20-ounce can pineapple chunks, drained thoroughly, or 1 ½ to 2 cups fresh pineapple, chopped
- 1 15-ounce can mandarin orange segments, well drained
- 2 to 3 ripe kiwis peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup grapes red or green, halved
- 1 cup fresh strawberries hulled and quartered
- Zest of 1 lime about ½ tablespoon
- 1 to 2 tablespoons honey depending on desired sweetness
- ½ to 1 teaspoon poppy seeds optional, for added texture and visual appeal
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: Start by draining the canned pineapple and mandarin oranges thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.If using fresh pineapple, chop it into small chunks. Peel the kiwis and slice them into bite-sized pieces. Halve the grapes and quarter the strawberries after removing their stems.
- Combine Fruit and Lime Zest: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together all the prepared fruits. Sprinkle the fresh lime zest over the mixture, distributing it evenly to infuse the fruit with a bright citrus aroma.
- Add the Honey Dressing: Drizzle the honey over the fruit mixture. Using a large serving spoon, carefully fold the honey into the fruit until everything is evenly coated. This will add a natural sweetness that complements the tartness of the lime.
- Finish with Poppy Seeds: If using, sprinkle poppy seeds on top and give the salad one last gentle toss to mix them in without crushing the fruit.
- Serve or Chill: For the best flavor and texture, serve the fruit salad immediately.If preferred, refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld. Avoid storing it longer as the fruit may release too much juice and discolor, especially the strawberries.
Notes
- Best Fresh: This salad tastes freshest when served right after preparation or within an hour. The vibrant colors and crisp texture are at their peak during this time.
- Fruit Flexibility: Feel free to swap or add fruits based on seasonality or preference. Blueberries, mango chunks, cantaloupe, blackberries, or peaches make excellent alternatives or additions.
- Avoid Watery Texture: Properly draining canned fruits and serving within a few hours prevents the salad from becoming soggy. If chilling, cover tightly to minimize moisture.
- Sweetness Adjustments: Start with 1 tablespoon of honey, then add more if you prefer a sweeter salad. Natural ripeness of fruits can also influence sweetness.
- Optional Seeds: Poppy seeds add a slight crunch and visual interest but can be omitted if unavailable or undesired.
