Description
This Creamy Fruit Salad offers a delightful and refreshing twist on a classic favorite. Combining a luscious blend of whipped topping, sour cream, and a colorful mix of fruits like pineapple, bananas, cherries, and fruit cocktail, this salad delivers a perfect balance of creamy texture and fruity sweetness that’s sure to brighten up any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Base
- 1 cup Whipped Topping (dairy-free version can be used for a vegan option)
- 1 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt can be substituted for a healthier choice)
Fruits
- 1 can Drained Fruit Cocktail (drain well to avoid a syrupy salad)
- 1 can Drained Pineapple Chunks (fresh pineapple can elevate the texture)
- 2 medium Bananas, sliced (add just before serving to keep them fresh)
- 1/2 cup Maraschino Cherries, halved (fresh cherries can be used for a more natural flavor)
Add-ins
- 1 cup Mini Marshmallows (include only if serving immediately to maintain freshness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the whipped topping and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until fully combined, creating a smooth and creamy dressing for the fruit salad.
- Drain the Canned Fruits: Thoroughly drain the fruit cocktail and pineapple chunks to prevent excess liquid. This step ensures that the salad’s texture remains fresh and not watery.
- Combine Fruits with the Base: Add the drained fruit cocktail and pineapple chunks to the creamy base and gently mix to coat all the fruit evenly.
- Add Bananas and Cherries: Just before serving, fold in the sliced bananas and halved maraschino cherries to keep the bananas from browning and maintain their fresh texture.
- Optional Marshmallows: If serving immediately, stir in the mini marshmallows to add sweetness and a fun textural contrast. Avoid adding marshmallows if preparing in advance as they may get soggy.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled for the best refreshing experience.
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a more vibrant flavor and texture.
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier, protein-rich alternative.
- Add bananas just before serving to prevent browning.
- Include mini marshmallows only if serving immediately to retain their texture.
- Drain canned fruits thoroughly to avoid a watery salad.
- For a vegan version, use dairy-free whipped topping and sour cream substitutes.
