Avocado and Fruit Salad topping

Avocado and Fruit Salad Topping Recipe with Red Delicious Apples, Kiwi Fruits, Strawberries, and Blueberries

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Avocado and Fruit Salad topping recipe is a delightful and nutritious addition to any meal, offering a burst of freshness and flavor. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a dessert, this recipe combines the creamy texture of avocados with the sweet and tangy flavors of various fruits, all brought together with a hint of nutmeg and the natural sweetness of honey. It's a versatile topping that pairs wonderfully with waffles, pancakes, or even yogurt, making it a must-try for anyone looking to add a healthy twist to their meals.

History

The concept of fruit salads has been around for centuries, with each culture adding its unique twist to this refreshing dish. The addition of avocados, a fruit native to south-central Mexico, is a relatively modern twist that has gained popularity for its nutritional benefits and creamy texture. This particular recipe, with its combination of avocados, apples, bananas, and berries, is a celebration of both traditional and contemporary flavors, making it a modern classic in the world of healthy eating.

Ingredients

2 red delicious apples, cut into 0.5-inch cubes
1 tsp lemon juice
2 california avocados, cut into 0.5-inch cubes
2 kiwi fruits, sliced
1 banana, sliced
1 pt (473 ml) strawberries, sliced
1 pt (473 ml) blueberries
5 tbsp honey
0.25 tsp mace (East Indian spice similar to nutmeg)

How to prepare

Place the apples in a bowl and add lemon juice to prevent browning.
Add all the other ingredients.
Gently mix the fruit salad topping.
Serve on top of waffles, with or without liquid syrup.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fruits based on seasonality and personal preference. Mangoes, peaches, or pears can be excellent additions. For a tropical twist, add a sprinkle of shredded coconut or a dash of lime juice.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture, use ripe but firm avocados. Adding lemon juice to the apples not only prevents browning but also adds a zesty flavor that complements the sweetness of the other fruits. For an extra burst of flavor, consider grilling the fruits briefly before adding them to the salad. This can enhance their natural sweetness and add a smoky depth to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This fruit salad topping is incredibly versatile. Serve it over whole-grain waffles or pancakes for a hearty breakfast, layer it with yogurt and granola for a delicious parfait, or enjoy it as a refreshing dessert on its own. For an elegant touch, serve it in a hollowed-out pineapple or melon half.

Cooking Techniques

No cooking is required for this recipe, making it a quick and easy option for any time of day. However, for those looking to explore different textures, lightly grilling the fruits can add a unique flavor profile to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If honey is not available or you're looking for a vegan option, maple syrup or agave nectar are excellent substitutes. For a nuttier flavor, a sprinkle of cinnamon can replace the nutmeg.

Make Ahead Tips

This fruit salad topping can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture and flavor, add the avocado and a fresh drizzle of lemon juice just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this fruit salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the fruits. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

This fruit salad topping pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a complete breakfast, serve it alongside scrambled eggs and whole-grain toast. It also complements grilled chicken or fish for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This dish is best enjoyed fresh and does not require reheating. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir gently before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of this Avocado and Fruit Salad topping contains approximately 200 calories, making it a light yet satisfying option for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

This Avocado and Fruit Salad topping is a great source of healthy carbohydrates. Apples, bananas, strawberries, and blueberries are all rich in dietary fiber and natural sugars, providing a quick and sustained energy source. A single serving of this salad contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, making it an excellent option for a healthy and energizing breakfast or snack.

Fats

Avocados are well-known for their healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health. A serving of this fruit salad topping contains about 15 grams of fat, the majority of which comes from the avocados. These healthy fats can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied after your meal.

Proteins

While this recipe is not high in protein, it does contain a small amount, approximately 2 grams per serving, primarily from the avocados. For a protein boost, consider serving this fruit salad topping over Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.

Vitamins and minerals

This fruit salad topping is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Avocados are rich in Vitamin K, folate, and Vitamin E, while the various fruits provide Vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. These nutrients support overall health, including immune function, heart health, and skin health.

Alergens

This recipe is naturally free from most common allergens, including gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy. However, those with specific fruit allergies should adjust the recipe accordingly.

Summary

Overall, this Avocado and Fruit Salad topping is a nutritious and delicious option, packed with healthy fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It's a versatile dish that can enhance any meal, providing a burst of flavor and a wealth of health benefits.

Summary

This Avocado and Fruit Salad topping is a delightful and nutritious addition to any meal. With its combination of creamy avocados, fresh fruits, and a hint of sweetness from honey, it's a versatile dish that can elevate breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, it's not only delicious but also incredibly beneficial for your health.

How did I get this recipe?

. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, for our weekly tea time. As we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on our tea, she suddenly got up and went to the refrigerator. She pulled out a ripe avocado, some fresh strawberries, and a juicy orange.

"The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try," Mrs. Jenkins said with a smile as she started chopping up the fruits. She mixed them together in a bowl and added a sprinkle of sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice. Then, she carefully sliced the avocado into cubes and gently folded it into the fruit mixture.

I watched in awe as Mrs. Jenkins created a beautiful and colorful salad topping that looked almost too pretty to eat. She served it on top of a bed of mixed greens and drizzled some balsamic vinaigrette over it. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors was absolutely divine.

As I took my first bite, I knew that this avocado and fruit salad topping was something special. The creamy texture of the avocado paired perfectly with the juicy sweetness of the strawberries and orange. It was a refreshing and light dish that was perfect for a hot summer day.

Mrs. Jenkins noticed my delight and chuckled, "I learned this recipe from my dear friend Maria when I was traveling in Spain many years ago. It's a simple and healthy dish that never fails to impress."

I thanked Mrs. Jenkins for sharing the recipe with me and couldn't wait to try making it myself. I made a mental note to buy some ripe avocados and fresh fruits on my way home.

When I got back to my own kitchen, I gathered all the ingredients and began chopping and mixing just like Mrs. Jenkins had shown me. As I carefully assembled the salad topping, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction and joy. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and there's something magical about taking a handful of ingredients and transforming them into a delicious dish.

After a few minutes of preparation, my avocado and fruit salad topping was ready. I served it on a plate and marveled at how beautiful it looked. The vibrant colors of the fruits and the creamy green of the avocado created a stunning visual feast.

I took a bite and savored the burst of flavors in my mouth. The sweetness of the strawberries and orange combined with the richness of the avocado was a match made in heaven. I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment knowing that I had successfully recreated Mrs. Jenkins' recipe.

From that day on, avocado and fruit salad topping became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy afternoons. Every time I took a bite, it would bring back memories of that summer day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, where I first fell in love with this delightful dish.

Over the years, I've added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different fruits and dressings to create new variations. But no matter how many times I make it, that first taste of avocado and fruit salad topping will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I look back on all the recipes I've collected and learned throughout the years, this one stands out as a reminder of the joy and satisfaction that cooking brings me. It's not just about nourishing the body, but also nourishing the soul.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a fresh and flavorful dish to brighten up your day, look no further than avocado and fruit salad topping. It's a simple yet elegant recipe that never fails to impress, just like the wonderful people who have shared their culinary wisdom with me over the years.