Banana and Apple Salad

Banana and Apple Salad Recipe - Ingredients and Steps

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Banana and Apple Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of bananas and apples with a rich, creamy dressing. This salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light dessert or side dish. The combination of fruits, nuts, and a flavorful dressing makes it a favorite among people of all ages. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy recipe to impress your guests or a nutritious dish to add to your meal plan, this Banana and Apple Salad is sure to satisfy.

History

The Banana and Apple Salad recipe has its roots in the traditional fruit salads that have been enjoyed for centuries. Fruit salads have always been popular for their health benefits, ease of preparation, and versatility. This particular recipe, with its unique blend of bananas, apples, nuts, and a curry-infused dressing, likely emerged in the mid-20th century as international cuisines began to influence home cooking. The addition of curry powder and yogurt dressing gives it a modern twist, making it a contemporary classic.

Ingredients

salad dressing
250 ml mayonnaise
125 ml Nestlé condensed milk or plain yoghurt
15 ml curry powder
1 ml ground coriander (optional)
1 ml ground cumin (jeera) (optional)
1 ml mustard powder
30 ml chutney or sugar (optional)
salt and pepper to taste
milk
SALAD
500 g bananas, sliced
3 green apples, cored but not skinned, diced
lemon juice
75 g hazelnuts or pecan nuts, finely chopped
250 ml seedless raisins

How to prepare

Blend all the ingredients for the salad dressing. Add just enough milk to ensure the dressing is not too thick. Stir until smooth and set aside. Arrange a layer of bananas and apples in a glass bowl. Sprinkle with a little lemon juice to prevent discoloration. Sprinkle with some of the chopped nuts and raisins. Pour over a little of the salad dressing and repeat the layers until all the ingredients have been used. Serve any remaining salad dressing in a jug. Chill until needed. Serves 6.

Variations

For a vegan version, use dairy-free mayonnaise and yogurt.
Add other fruits like grapes, pineapple, or berries for more variety.
Incorporate a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture for your Banana and Apple Salad, consider the following tips:

- Use ripe but firm bananas and apples for the best taste and to prevent them from becoming mushy.

- Add lemon juice to the sliced bananas and apples immediately to prevent browning.

- Chill the salad dressing before adding it to the salad to keep the dish cool and refreshing.

- Adjust the amount of curry powder according to your taste preference for a milder or spicier dressing.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a refreshing dessert, a side dish at picnics or barbecues, or as a healthy snack. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own for a light meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing this salad is layering the ingredients to ensure that each bite has a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Chilling the salad before serving enhances its freshness and taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute honey or maple syrup for sugar in the dressing for a natural sweetener option.

- Use any nuts of your choice, or replace them with seeds if allergies are a concern.

- Greek yogurt can be used instead of regular yogurt for a thicker, creamier dressing.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve. If making it ahead, add the nuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase the layers. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts and a few mint leaves for a touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Banana and Apple Salad with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay, for a refreshing combination. It also goes well with iced tea or a fruity cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This salad 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 again.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Banana and Apple Salad contains approximately 200-250 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option for a dessert or side dish. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Carbohydrates

This Banana and Apple Salad is a good source of carbohydrates, primarily from the fruits and sugar used in the recipe. Bananas and apples are rich in natural sugars and dietary fiber. A serving of this salad provides approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, making it a great option for a quick energy boost.

Fats

The fats in this salad come mainly from the mayonnaise, yogurt, and nuts. While mayonnaise is higher in saturated fats, yogurt provides a healthier, low-fat alternative. Nuts add healthy unsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Overall, a serving of this salad contains about 10-15 grams of fat, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Proteins

Proteins in this Banana and Apple Salad are relatively low, with small amounts coming from the yogurt and nuts. Each serving provides approximately 3-5 grams of protein. For a higher protein content, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to the dressing or serving the salad with a side of lean meat or fish.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the fruits and nuts. Bananas and apples are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Nuts provide magnesium, zinc, and vitamin E. Together, these ingredients make the salad not only delicious but also nutritious.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include nuts and dairy (from the mayonnaise and yogurt). Individuals with nut allergies can omit the nuts or substitute them with seeds. Dairy-free mayonnaise and yogurt can be used to make this salad suitable for those with dairy allergies or intolerances.

Summary

Overall, Banana and Apple Salad is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It's a flavorful, nutritious option that can be easily modified to suit different dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

Banana and Apple Salad is a versatile, delicious, and nutritious dish that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of fruits with a creamy, spiced dressing. It's perfect for various occasions and can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. With its simple preparation and health benefits, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Banana and Apple Salad. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my mother and my grandmother. I had always loved spending time in the kitchen, watching them work their magic with pots and pans, creating delicious meals that filled our home with warmth and love.

One sunny afternoon, as I was rummaging through my grandmother's old recipe box, I stumbled upon a faded, yellowed piece of paper with the words "Banana and Apple Salad" written in elegant script. Intrigued, I carefully unfolded the paper and read through the ingredients and instructions. It seemed like a simple yet intriguing combination of flavors - ripe bananas, crisp apples, tangy lemon juice, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. I knew I had to try it.

Excitedly, I showed the recipe to my grandmother and asked her where she had learned to make this salad. She smiled fondly and told me that she had first made it when she was a young bride, just starting out in her own kitchen. She had learned the recipe from a dear friend who had traveled to exotic lands and brought back a wealth of culinary knowledge.

My grandmother's eyes sparkled as she shared the story of how she had carefully followed the instructions, mixing the ingredients together and marveling at the burst of flavors that came from such simple ingredients. She had served the salad at a family gathering, and it had been a hit - everyone raving about the unique combination of sweet and tart flavors.

Inspired by my grandmother's tale, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. I carefully peeled and sliced the bananas and apples, squeezing fresh lemon juice over them to prevent browning. I sprinkled a dash of cinnamon over the fruit, and gently tossed everything together in a bowl. The aroma of the spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When I took my first bite of the Banana and Apple Salad, I was transported back in time to my grandmother's kitchen, to a time when life was simpler and meals were made with love and care. The flavors danced on my tongue, the sweetness of the bananas mingling with the tartness of the apples, creating a harmony of tastes that was truly delightful.

As I shared the salad with my family, I felt a sense of pride in carrying on the tradition of cooking that had been passed down through generations. The recipe for Banana and Apple Salad had not only filled our bellies, but it had also filled our hearts with warmth and nostalgia, reminding us of the power of good food to bring people together.

And so, every time I make Banana and Apple Salad now, I think of my grandmother and the stories she shared with me. I am grateful for the knowledge and wisdom she passed down to me, and for the joy that cooking has brought to my life. The recipe may have come from a friend who traveled far and wide, but its true value lies in the memories and traditions that it represents. And for that, I am truly thankful.