California Avocado Paradise Fruit Salad

California Avocado Paradise Fruit Salad Recipe - USA Delight

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

Introduction

This California Avocado Paradise Fruit Salad is a refreshing and tropical dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. The combination of creamy avocado, sweet mango, tangy pineapple, and juicy mandarin oranges creates a burst of flavors in every bite.

History

The California Avocado Paradise Fruit Salad is a modern twist on traditional fruit salads, incorporating the creamy texture and rich flavor of avocados. Avocados have been cultivated in California since the early 20th century, and their popularity has grown steadily over the years. This recipe combines the best of California's fresh produce to create a delicious and nutritious dish.

Ingredients

2 avocados, peeled, pitted, and cubed
1 mango, seeded, peeled, and cubed
2 cups fresh or canned pineapple chunks
11 oz (312 g) can mandarin oranges, drained
0.5 cup fat-free plain yogurt
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp powdered sugar
0.5 tsp lime zest
2 tbsp lime juice

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine mango, avocado, pineapple, and mandarin oranges.
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, yogurt, lime juice, lime zest, and powdered sugar until well combined.
Add the dressing to the fruits in the large bowl and gently fold until the fruit mixture is coated.
If desired, garnish with lime peel curls.

Variations

Add diced strawberries or blueberries for an extra burst of sweetness.
Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts on top for added crunch.
Drizzle with a balsamic glaze or honey for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.

- You can use fresh or canned pineapple chunks, depending on your preference.

- For a creamier dressing, you can add more yogurt or honey to the mixture.

- To prevent the avocados from browning, toss them in lime juice before adding them to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the California Avocado Paradise Fruit Salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to gently fold the dressing into the fruit mixture to avoid crushing the delicate fruits.

- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute Greek yogurt for regular yogurt for a thicker dressing.

- Use agave nectar or maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the fruit salad and dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine them just before serving to keep the fruits fresh and crisp.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the California Avocado Paradise Fruit Salad in a hollowed-out pineapple or coconut shell for a fun and tropical presentation. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This fruit salad pairs well with grilled shrimp skewers, teriyaki chicken, or a quinoa salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The avocado may oxidize and turn brown over time, but it is still safe to eat. Do not freeze the salad as the texture of the fruits may change.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 38g

Dietary Fiber: 7g

Sugars: 28g

Fats

Total Fat: 12g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 3g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 70% DV

Vitamin A: 20% DV

Potassium: 15% DV

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (yogurt) and tree nuts (avocado).

Summary

This California Avocado Paradise Fruit Salad is a good source of fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins. It is a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal.

Summary

The California Avocado Paradise Fruit Salad is a delightful combination of creamy avocado, sweet mango, tangy pineapple, and juicy mandarin oranges, all tossed in a light and refreshing dressing. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients and vitamins, making it a healthy and satisfying choice for any occasion. Enjoy this tropical paradise in a bowl!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day in California, and I was visiting a friend who lived in the beautiful city of Santa Barbara. We decided to have a picnic by the beach, and my friend suggested that we make a fruit salad with California avocados as the star ingredient.

I had never heard of using avocados in a fruit salad before, but my friend assured me that it was a delicious combination. She told me that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. I was intrigued and excited to try something new, so we headed to the local farmer's market to pick up some fresh avocados and other fruits.

As we gathered the ingredients, my friend explained to me the importance of using ripe avocados for the salad. She showed me how to gently press the avocado to check if it was ready to eat - it should give slightly under pressure but still feel firm. I watched in awe as she skillfully sliced and diced the fruits, creating a colorful and vibrant mix of flavors.

Once we returned to her kitchen, my friend guided me through the process of assembling the salad. She explained that the key to a successful fruit salad is balancing the sweet and savory flavors, and the creamy texture of the avocados would complement the other fruits perfectly. I watched as she tossed the fruits together with a light honey-lime dressing, adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut for an extra touch of tropical flair.

Finally, it was time to taste the fruit salad. The first bite was a revelation - the creamy avocados paired beautifully with the juicy mangoes, tangy pineapples, and sweet strawberries. The flavors danced on my tongue, and I knew that I had discovered a new favorite recipe.

From that day on, I was hooked on the California Avocado Paradise Fruit Salad. I made it for every special occasion, from family gatherings to potluck dinners with friends. Each time, it was a hit, and people couldn't believe how delicious avocados could be in a fruit salad.

Over the years, I have made some modifications to the original recipe, adding my own twist to make it truly my own. I started incorporating a variety of fruits depending on what was in season - from kiwis to papayas to peaches. I also experimented with different dressings, sometimes adding a touch of mint or ginger for an extra burst of flavor.

As I continued to make the California Avocado Paradise Fruit Salad, I found that it became more than just a recipe - it became a symbol of the memories and friendships that I had cultivated over the years. Each time I made the salad, I would think back to that sunny day in Santa Barbara, and the joy of discovering something new and delicious.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of fresh fruits and avocados, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the people who have enjoyed this salad over the years. I am grateful for the friend who introduced me to this recipe, and for the countless memories that I have created around it.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a taste of paradise, I encourage you to try my California Avocado Paradise Fruit Salad. It may just become a cherished memory for you, too.