Almond Fruit Salad

Almond Fruit Salad Recipe - A Delicious & Nutritious Twist on a Classic

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Almond Fruit Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines the wholesome goodness of fruits, nuts, and grains. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a light yet satisfying meal or side dish. With its mix of sweet and savory flavors, it's a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you're hosting a brunch, looking for a healthy lunch option, or in need of a quick dinner side, this Almond Fruit Salad is sure to delight.

History

The concept of fruit salad has been around for centuries, with each culture adding its unique twist. The addition of almonds and a dressing based on soy sauce and ginger gives this particular recipe an Asian flair, suggesting its origins or inspirations might be traced back to Asian cuisine. Over time, the recipe has evolved, incorporating ingredients like rice to make it more filling and balanced, making it a modern fusion dish that appeals to a wide range of palates.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked white or brown rice, cooled to room temperature
1 orange, peeled, quartered, and sliced
0.5 cup seedless red grapes, halved
1 medium kiwi fruit, pared, quartered and sliced
0.33 cup slivered almonds, toasted
2 tbsp orange juice
1 tbsp soy sauce
2 tsp vegetable oil
0.25 tsp minced fresh ginger

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine rice, orange, grapes, kiwi fruit, and almonds.
In a small bowl, blend orange juice, soy sauce, oil, and ginger; pour over the rice mixture.
Toss the ingredients lightly.

Variations

Substitute quinoa or couscous for rice for a different texture.
Add other fruits like mango, strawberries, or blueberries for more variety.
For a nut-free version, use roasted sunflower seeds instead of almonds.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture in your Almond Fruit Salad, consider the following tips:

- Use freshly cooked rice that has been cooled to room temperature to avoid a mushy salad.

- Toast the almonds lightly to enhance their nutty flavor.

- For the freshest taste, use high-quality, ripe fruits.

- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and ginger according to your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a standalone light meal or as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal. For a refreshing twist, serve chilled on a hot summer day.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include toasting almonds to enhance their flavor and blending the dressing ingredients to create a harmonious mix of flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.

- Use lemon juice instead of orange juice for a tangier dressing.

- Maple syrup can substitute for soy sauce for a sweeter dressing.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be prepared in advance, with the dressing stored separately. Combine just before serving to keep the salad fresh and prevent it from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a large, clear bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the fruits. Garnish with additional toasted almonds and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Almond Fruit Salad with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the fresh flavors of the fruits and the nuttiness of the almonds.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Almond Fruit Salad contains approximately 250 calories, making it a light yet satisfying option for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

This Almond Fruit Salad is a good source of carbohydrates, primarily from the rice and fruits. A serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel your body's daily activities.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the almonds and vegetable oil, contributing to the overall satiety of the dish. A serving contains about 9 grams of fat, with a healthy mix of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.

Proteins

Almonds and soy sauce contribute to the protein content of this salad, making it a more balanced meal. Each serving provides approximately 6 grams of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of fruits and almonds. It's an excellent source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium, among others, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Alergens

The primary allergen in this recipe is almonds, a tree nut. Those with a soy allergy should also be cautious due to the soy sauce. Always check labels and modify the recipe as needed to accommodate any dietary restrictions.

Summary

Overall, Almond Fruit Salad is a nutritious dish that balances carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It's rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a meal or side dish.

Summary

Almond Fruit Salad is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of fruits with the crunch of almonds and the heartiness of rice, all brought together with a flavorful dressing. It's nutritious, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a healthy lunch option or a unique side dish, this salad is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Almond Fruit Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was attending a neighborhood potluck with my dear friend Martha. As we made our way through the buffet line, I noticed a beautiful bowl of fruit salad that caught my eye. The vibrant colors of the fresh fruits mixed with the crunchy almonds were simply irresistible.

I asked Martha who had made the salad, and she pointed me in the direction of Mrs. Jenkins, a lovely elderly woman who was known for her delicious dishes. I made my way over to Mrs. Jenkins and struck up a conversation with her, complimenting her on the stunning fruit salad. She smiled warmly and revealed that the secret to the salad's success was the addition of almonds and a special dressing she had perfected over the years.

Intrigued by her words, I asked Mrs. Jenkins if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. To my delight, she agreed and began to recite the ingredients and instructions for making the Almond Fruit Salad. I eagerly jotted down notes in my recipe journal, grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented cook.

As I prepared the salad for my own family later that week, I couldn't help but think back on the moment I had first discovered the recipe. The combination of fresh fruits, crunchy almonds, and tangy dressing was a revelation, and I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have continued to make the Almond Fruit Salad for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time I prepare the dish, I am reminded of Mrs. Jenkins and the generosity she showed me in sharing her recipe. I have added my own touches to the salad over time, experimenting with different fruits and variations of the dressing, but the core of the recipe has remained the same.

One of my favorite memories involving the Almond Fruit Salad took place during a family reunion at my sister's house. I had brought a large bowl of the salad to share with everyone, and it quickly became the star of the meal. My nieces and nephews, who were usually picky eaters, couldn't get enough of the colorful combination of fruits and nuts.

As I watched my family enjoy the salad, I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had learned the recipe from Mrs. Jenkins all those years ago. The Almond Fruit Salad had become more than just a dish to me - it was a symbol of the connections I had made through cooking and the joy that sharing a delicious meal can bring.

In the years since I first learned the recipe for Almond Fruit Salad, I have continued to collect recipes from various sources - friends, family, cookbooks, and even online blogs. Each recipe tells a story, whether it's a cherished family tradition or a new discovery that I can't wait to try.

But no matter how many recipes I add to my collection, the Almond Fruit Salad will always hold a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the kindness of Mrs. Jenkins, the joy of discovering a new dish, and the simple pleasure of sharing good food with the ones you love. And for that, I am forever grateful.