Zesty and refreshing, this fruit salad with pudding is the perfect blend of sweet and creamy. It’s a versatile dish that can serve as a dessert, a side, or even a light breakfast. With the addition of pudding, it takes the traditional fruit salad to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of fresh fruits and creamy pudding creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring no cooking, just mixing and chilling.
- The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to use your favorite fruits or whatever is in season.
- Pudding adds a rich and creamy element that makes this dish stand out from traditional fruit salads.
- It’s a great make-ahead dish, as the flavors meld and improve when chilled overnight.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of mixed fresh fruits (such as strawberries, bananas, grapes, and kiwi), chopped
- 1 package (3.4 oz) of instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup of cold milk
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1 tbsp of honey (optional)
- 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowl
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruits
Wash all the fruits thoroughly under cold water. Peel and chop the bananas and kiwi into bite-sized pieces. Hull the strawberries and cut them into quarters. If using grapes, halve them. Combine all the fruits in a large mixing bowl. Tip: To prevent the bananas from browning, you can toss them with a little lemon juice before adding to the salad.
Step 2: Make the Pudding Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until the mixture begins to thicken, about 2 minutes. Add the sour cream, honey (if using), and vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth and creamy. Tip: For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream.
Step 3: Combine Fruits and Pudding
Pour the pudding mixture over the prepared fruits. Gently fold the fruits into the pudding until they are evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the fruits. Tip: For an extra touch of elegance, reserve a few pieces of fruit to garnish the top before serving.
Step 4: Chill the Salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the pudding to set slightly. For best results, chill overnight.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Give the salad a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the pudding. Serve chilled in individual bowls or a large serving dish. Enjoy the creamy, fruity goodness!
Tips and Tricks
For a tropical twist, add some diced mango or pineapple to the fruit mix. If you’re serving this salad at a party, consider serving it in hollowed-out fruit shells for a fun presentation. To make it even more indulgent, sprinkle some toasted coconut or chopped nuts on top before serving. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut fruit from the store, but fresh is always best for flavor and texture. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk and a dairy-free pudding mix.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Lovers: Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla and add some chocolate chips for extra decadence.
- Berry Bliss: Focus on berries like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a antioxidant-rich version.
- Citrus Splash: Incorporate segments of oranges, grapefruits, and a splash of lime juice for a tangy twist.
- Autumn Harvest: Use apples, pears, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a fall-inspired salad.
- Exotic Escape: Add fruits like dragon fruit, star fruit, and passion fruit for an exotic flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pudding instead of instant?
Yes, you can definitely use homemade pudding if you prefer. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before mixing it with the fruits to prevent them from becoming mushy. The consistency should be similar to that of the instant pudding for the best results.
How long can I store this fruit salad?
This fruit salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours of preparation, as the fruits can start to release their juices and become soggy. However, if you’re using firmer fruits like apples and grapes, it can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk and pudding mix, and substitute the sour cream with coconut cream or a vegan yogurt. Just ensure all your ingredients are vegan-friendly, and you’re good to go.
Summary
This fruit salad with pudding is a creamy, dreamy twist on the classic that’s sure to please any crowd. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light dessert, a side dish, or a sweet breakfast option, this recipe has you covered.
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