Berry Salad

Angolan Pineapple Pecan Apple Salad Recipe

Region / culture: Angola | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Berry Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of berries and pineapple with the crunchy texture of nuts. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the natural sweetness of fruits and are looking for a healthy yet delicious dessert or side dish. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make Berry Salad a favorite among cooks of all levels.

History

The concept of fruit salads has been around for centuries, with each culture incorporating its local fruits and traditional flavors. The Berry Salad, as we know it today, has evolved from these various traditions, combining elements from different cuisines. The use of canned fruits in this recipe is a nod to the mid-20th century, when canned goods became popular for their convenience and year-round availability. This particular Berry Salad recipe, with its mix of berries, pineapple, and nuts, is a modern take on the classic fruit salad, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

2 cans (16 oz / 454 g each) of whole-berry berry sauce
2 cans (20 oz / 567 g each) of crushed pineapple
1 cup of crushed pecans (or other favorite nut)
2 medium-sized apples (unpeeled)

How to prepare

Strain the liquid from both cans of crushed pineapple. A good tip is to put the pineapple into a fine mesh sieve and press it down with the bottom of a bowl. Make sure you remove most of the juice.
In a large mixing bowl, combine both cans of strained pineapple and both cans of berry sauce.
Add 1 cup of crushed pecans. Adjust the amount according to taste.
Core and dice two medium-sized apples. Using a firmer apple will help it maintain its consistency.
Mix all the ingredients together, ensuring there are no clumps of berry sauce. Chill and serve.

Variations

For a tropical twist, add mango or kiwi.
Use a mix of fresh berries instead of canned berry sauce for a fresher flavor.
Incorporate a splash of citrus juice or zest to enhance the fruit flavors.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- Use a fine mesh sieve to thoroughly strain the pineapple, as removing excess juice is crucial for preventing a soggy salad.

- Choose firm apples to maintain a crisp texture in the salad.

- Toast the crushed nuts slightly before adding them to the salad for an enhanced nutty flavor.

- Chill the salad before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Berry Salad can be served as a dessert, a side dish, or a light meal. It pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess. For a festive touch, serve it in individual cups or glasses layered with additional fresh berries on top.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe primarily involves mixing and chilling, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. The key technique is properly straining the pineapple to ensure the salad is not too wet.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans, depending on availability or preference.

- Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a fresher taste.

- Maple syrup or honey can be added for extra sweetness if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

Berry Salad can be made up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. If using nuts, add them just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a clear glass bowl to showcase the colorful layers of fruit. Garnish with mint leaves or a sprinkle of coconut flakes for an elegant finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Berry Salad pairs beautifully with sparkling wine or a light, fruity cocktail. It also complements grilled meats and seafood, making it a versatile side dish for barbecues and picnics.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving again.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A typical serving of Berry Salad contains approximately 200-250 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used and the serving size.

Carbohydrates

This Berry Salad is relatively high in carbohydrates, primarily due to the natural sugars found in the fruits. The total carbohydrate content will vary depending on the specific types of berry sauce and pineapple used. On average, a serving of this salad may contain approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The primary source of fats in this recipe comes from the nuts. Nuts are a great source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Depending on the type of nuts used and the serving size, the fat content can range from 5 to 15 grams per serving.

Proteins

While this Berry Salad is not a high-protein dish, it does contain a small amount of protein from the nuts. On average, a serving may provide about 2-4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin C from the pineapple and berries, as well as potassium. The nuts add a boost of magnesium and Vitamin E. Each serving is a good source of dietary fiber as well.

Alergens

The main allergen present in this recipe is nuts. Individuals with nut allergies should avoid this dish or substitute the nuts with a non-allergenic ingredient.

Summary

Overall, Berry Salad is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and vitamins. It's an excellent choice for those looking for a sweet treat that also offers nutritional benefits.

Summary

Berry Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of fruits with the crunch of nuts. It's easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a dessert, side dish, or light meal, this Berry Salad is sure to be a hit with its vibrant flavors and healthful ingredients.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Rosemary in her quaint little cottage by the sea. Rosemary was a remarkable cook, and her kitchen always smelled of the most delicious aromas. On this particular day, she had prepared a beautiful Berry Salad that was bursting with color and flavor.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I couldn't help but marvel at the combination of sweet berries and tangy dressing that made up the salad. It was a simple dish, yet it was so refreshing and satisfying. I asked Rosemary for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me, explaining each step in detail.

The key to making the perfect Berry Salad, she told me, was to use only the freshest and ripest berries available. She recommended a mix of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, but said that any combination of berries would work well. She also stressed the importance of making the dressing from scratch, using a blend of balsamic vinegar, honey, and a hint of fresh mint.

I took careful notes as Rosemary shared her recipe, wanting to capture every detail so that I could recreate the dish at home. She even gave me a few tips and tricks that she had learned over the years, such as adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch.

When I returned home from my visit with Rosemary, I couldn't wait to try my hand at making the Berry Salad. I gathered all the ingredients I needed, including a beautiful assortment of ripe berries and a fresh bunch of mint from my garden. As I prepared the dressing, I could almost hear Rosemary's voice guiding me through each step.

The aroma of the balsamic vinegar and honey filled my kitchen, and I felt a sense of joy and contentment as I tossed the berries in the tangy dressing. I added a sprinkle of toasted almonds for crunch, just as Rosemary had suggested, and marveled at the vibrant colors of the salad.

When I finally sat down to enjoy my creation, I was transported back to that warm summer day at Rosemary's cottage. The Berry Salad was just as delicious as I remembered, bursting with the flavors of summer and the love and care that had gone into making it. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, and that I would always think of Rosemary whenever I prepared it.

Over the years, I have shared Rosemary's recipe for Berry Salad with friends and family, passing on the tradition of making this simple yet delightful dish. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of that special day when I learned the recipe from my dear friend, and the joy and connection that food can bring.

As I grow older, I find comfort in the memories of all the recipes I have collected and learned from the people I have met along the way. Each dish tells a story, and each recipe holds a piece of my heart. And as I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I know that the legacy of these recipes will live on for generations to come.