Name: Delicious Fruit Salad with Creamy Homemade Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup low-fat milk (substitute with unsweetened almond or oat milk for dairy-free option); 4 tablespoons granulated sugar (reduce to 3 tablespoons if you prefer less sweetness); 1 tablespoon corn starch (helps thicken the dressing); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (elevates overall flavor); 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced); 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 cup fresh blackberries; 1 cup mandarin oranges (canned and drained); 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks; 1 cup red grapes (halved); 2 medium kiwi (peeled and sliced)

As I stirred the silky dressing on my stovetop, the sweet aroma of vanilla mingled with the scent of fresh fruit wafted through my kitchen. This Creamy Fruit Salad with Homemade Dressing has become my go-to recipe for any gathering, providing a delightful mix of juicy strawberries, blueberries, and plump blackberries that always earns rave reviews. Not only is this dish a breeze to whip up in just 15 minutes, but it’s also wonderfully versatile—customize it with your favorite fruits to please everyone at the table. Perfect for breakfast, summer picnics, or simply as a healthy snack, this recipe is sure to brighten your day. Are you ready to discover just how easy it is to whip up a fruit salad that stands out from the rest?

Why is this fruit salad a must-try?

Versatility: You can easily customize this salad with your favorite seasonal fruits, making it a delightful choice year-round.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for a healthy dessert or snack, ideal for those busy days.
Healthy Indulgence: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, this recipe is a delicious way to boost your daily fruit intake.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its vibrant colors and creamy dressing make it an attractive dish for any gathering, from brunches to picnics.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks will achieve impressive results—like my Pecan Chicken Salad or Roasted Pear Salad. Prepare to impress your family and friends while enjoying a delightful homemade dish!

Fruit Salad Ingredients

• Dive into this delicious fruit salad with creamy homemade dressing!

For the Dressing

Low-fat milk – Acts as the base for a creamy dressing; substitute with unsweetened almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness; feel free to reduce to 3 tablespoons if you prefer less sweetness.
Corn starch – Helps thicken the dressing to achieve that luxurious, velvety texture.
Vanilla – Elevates the overall flavor profile of the dressing.

For the Fruit Salad

Fresh strawberries – These juicy gems provide sweetness and a delightful texture.
Fresh blueberries – Adding a burst of flavor, these berries also bring slight tartness to balance the dish.
Fresh blackberries – Their naturally sweet taste complements other fruits beautifully.
Mandarin oranges – Canned for convenience, just make sure they’re drained thoroughly to avoid excess juice.
Fresh pineapple chunks – Contributes a tropical note and juicy goodness to the salad.
Red grapes – Offer a sweet crunch that makes each bite enjoyable.
Kiwi – Adds a unique acidity and a pop of vibrant color to the mix.

Feel free to explore and create your own variations while assembling a fruit salad that tantalizes your taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Fruit Salad with Velvety Homemade Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium skillet, combine low-fat milk, granulated sugar, and corn starch. Set over medium-low heat and whisk continuously for 8-10 minutes until the mixture thickens and reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. You’ll know it’s ready when it bubbles slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 2: Add Flavor and Cool
Once thickened, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the dressing to cool at room temperature for a few minutes, or place it in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes to expedite the process. You want it to be cool, but not overly chilled when serving over your fruit salad.

Step 3: Combine the Fruits
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the prepared strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, mandarin oranges, kiwi, pineapple chunks, and red grapes. Use a wooden spoon to mix gently, ensuring the fruits are evenly distributed while maintaining their shape. The vibrant colors will create a delightful visual for your creamy fruit salad.

Step 4: Mix in the Dressing
Retrieve your cooled homemade dressing and give it a quick whisk to ensure its smoothness. Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture and gently toss everything together until each fruit piece is evenly coated. Take care to not crush the delicate fruits while mixing, preserving their beautiful textures.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Creamy Fruit Salad is now ready to serve! You can present it immediately at room temperature or chill it in the refrigerator for about an hour for a refreshing treat. If you prepare it ahead, add the dressing 1-2 hours before serving to maintain the salad’s freshness, keeping it a hit for any gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Fruit Salad preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop and store all the fruits (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, mandarin oranges, pineapple, grapes, and kiwi) in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance. To maintain freshness and prevent browning, refrigerate the fruits separately, and add a splash of lemon juice to the apples or bananas if using. The homemade dressing can be prepared and chilled up to 24 hours ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the fruits in a bowl, whisk the dressing again, pour it over the salad, and toss gently. This way, you’ll have a delightful, refreshing dish ready in no time!

Storage Tips for Fruit Salad

Fridge: Store your creamy fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help keep the fruits fresh and the dressing intact.
Separate Storage: For maximum freshness, keep the fruits and dressing stored separately until ready to serve. This prevents the fruits from becoming mushy.
Room Temperature: If serving outdoors or at room temperature, avoid leaving the fruit salad out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat the fruit salad; it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature for the ultimate refreshing taste!

Expert Tips for Creamy Fruit Salad

Fresh Fruits Only: Use seasonal, ripe fruits for the best flavor and texture. Old or overripe fruits can make your fruit salad mushy and unappealing.
Proper Cooling: Always allow the dressing to cool properly before adding it to your fruit salad. This prevents the fruits from wilting and ensures a lovely presentation.
Sweetness Control: Adjust the sugar in the dressing as per your taste. You can start with a smaller amount and add more if needed, keeping the fruit salad balanced in flavor.
Avoid Excess Moisture: Drain canned fruits well to eliminate excess juice, which can dilute the creamy dressing and make the salad watery.
Storage Best Practices: Store the fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Adding the dressing just before serving helps maintain its delightful texture and freshness.

Enjoy this delicious fruit salad with creamy homemade dressing, and create a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is tasty!

Fruit Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and give this fruit salad your personal touch for a unique, delicious twist!

Dairy-Free: Substitute low-fat milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk for a creamy dressing without dairy. This change keeps it deliciously light and fresh!
Natural Sweetener: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar. This adds a rich flavor that complements the fruit beautifully.
Yogurt Twist: Swap out the milk for Greek or coconut yogurt. This variation makes an even creamier dressing with a delightful tangy taste that elevates your salad.
Tropical Boost: Incorporate tropical fruits like mango or papaya for an exotic twist. Their sweetness and vibrant colors will transport you right to a sunny beach!
Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped nuts or seeds, such as almonds or sunflower seeds, for an extra crunch. This not only enhances texture but also adds a nutritious boost.
Zesty Kick: Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the fruit salad for a zesty flavor punch that brightens every bite. Pair it with the sweetness for a delightful balance!
Berry Medley: Mix in other berries like raspberries or strawberries for a berry-loaded explosion of flavor. The combined sweetness creates a delightful contrast with the creamy dressing.
Spicy Surprise: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a surprising heat sensation. It adds an exciting kick to your lovely, sweet fruit salad!

With these variations, your fruit salad can always be a delightful surprise and unique to every occasion. For more fresh ideas, don’t miss checking out my Fall Farro Salad or the vibrant Crispy Wonton Rotisserie Chicken Salad for delightful serving options alongside your salad!

What to Serve with Creamy Fruit Salad with Homemade Dressing

Elevate your meal experience by pairing this vibrant dish with delightful complements that enhance every bite.

Crusty Baguette: Perfect for adding a crunchy texture, its rustic vibe balances the creamy fruit salad beautifully. Serve slices alongside for dipping or spreading with cream cheese.
Grilled Chicken: The savory flavor of grilled chicken provides a hearty contrast to the sweet salad, making for a satisfying lunch or dinner option.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with this fruit salad for a delightful breakfast treat. The tanginess of yogurt complements the sweetness of the fruits wonderfully.
Sparkling Water with Mint: Refreshing and light, sparkling water infused with fresh mint elevates the fruity flavors and keeps the palate clean between bites.
Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies offer a sweet nutty note that pairs well with the creaminess of the fruit salad. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a lovely afternoon snack.
Honey-Lavender Ice Cream: For dessert lovers, a scoop of this subtly flavored ice cream adds an indulgent touch, enriching the overall taste experience with floral notes.

Creamy Fruit Salad with Homemade Dressing Recipe FAQs

What fruits are best for a creamy fruit salad?
Absolutely! The best fruits for a creamy fruit salad are those that are ripe and in season. I recommend juicy strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and kiwi for a delightful combination of sweetness and tartness. You can also mix in tropical fruits like pineapple and mandarin oranges to add a zesty twist. The fresher the fruit, the better the overall flavor and texture!

How should I store leftover fruit salad?
Very important! Store your creamy fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For even better results, keep the fruits and the creamy dressing stored separately until ready to serve. This will help maintain the fruits’ freshness and prevent them from becoming mushy.

Can I freeze creamy fruit salad?
I often suggest freezing, but not all fruits freeze well in a salad format. If you want to enjoy a fruit salad later, you can freeze some fruits like strawberries and blueberries before making the salad. Just drain excess liquid, then arrange the frozen fruits in an airtight container or resealable bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw them in the fridge overnight, and then prepare your salad with fresh dressing.

What should I do if my dressing is too thin?
If your dressing ends up too thin, don’t worry—it’s a common issue! You can thicken it by whisking in a little more cornstarch. First, dissolve 1 teaspoon of cornstarch in a tablespoon of cold water, then whisk this mixture into the dressing over low heat while stirring continuously. Keep cooking for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Are there any allergy concerns with this fruit salad?
Very important to consider! The creamy dressing does contain low-fat milk, which can be a concern for those with dairy allergies. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, simply substitute low-fat milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk. Always check the labels of canned fruits for any additional preservatives or allergens, and if you’re serving guests, be sure to ask about any dietary restrictions!