Fruit Salad with Jalapeno-Citrus Dressing

Fruit Salad with Jalapeno-Citrus Dressing Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Fruit salad with jalapeno-citrus dressing is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines a variety of fruits with a spicy and tangy dressing. This recipe is perfect for a light and healthy summer meal or as a side dish for a barbecue or picnic.

History

Fruit salads have been enjoyed for centuries, with different variations found in cultures around the world. The addition of jalapeno-citrus dressing adds a modern twist to this classic dish, providing a unique and bold flavor profile.

Ingredients

0.5 small honeydew melon
1 ripe large papaya, peeled, seeded, and cubed
1 pt (473 ml) strawberries, stemmed and hulled
1 can pineapple chunks, drained

Jalapeno-citrus dressing

0.33 cup orange juice
3 tbsp lime juice
3 tbsp minced fresh mint, basil, or cilantro
2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced
1 tbsp honey

How to prepare

Scoop the seeds from the melon.
Remove the fruit from the rind using a melon baller or cut it into wedges.
Remove the rind and cut the fruit into cubes.
Place the cubes in a large bowl.
Add the other fruits and dressing.
Gently toss to combine all the ingredients.
Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 hours.
Garnish with mint.
To make the dressing, combine the ingredients in a small bowl and mix well.

Variations

Add diced mango or kiwi for a tropical twist.
Substitute the jalapeno peppers with red chili flakes for a milder heat.
Mix in some toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- Adjust the amount of jalapeno peppers in the dressing to suit your spice preference.

- For a sweeter dressing, add more honey or a touch of sugar.

- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this fruit salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing snack.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a great fruit salad is to use fresh and ripe fruits, and to gently toss them with the dressing to ensure that all the flavors are evenly distributed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite fruits, herbs, or sweeteners. You can also use lemon juice instead of lime juice for a slightly different flavor profile.

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 fruit salad in a large glass bowl or individual serving dishes for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of lime for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This fruit salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian dishes. It also makes a great addition to a brunch buffet or potluck spread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze as the fruits may become mushy when thawed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 140 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 32g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 1g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 2g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This fruit salad is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free.

Summary

This fruit salad is a healthy and nutritious dish that is low in fat and calories, while providing a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Fruit salad with jalapeno-citrus dressing is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a mix of sweet and spicy flavors, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a warm summer day, and I had invited some friends over for a barbecue in the backyard. I wanted to make something light and refreshing to accompany the grilled meats and vegetables, so I decided to try my hand at making a fruit salad.

I rummaged through my recipe box, filled with old handwritten notes and clippings from magazines. As I sifted through the papers, my eyes landed on a torn piece of yellowed paper with a faded ink that read "Fruit Salad with Jalapeno-Citrus Dressing." I couldn't remember where I had gotten the recipe from, but the combination of sweet fruits and spicy jalapeno intrigued me.

I gathered the ingredients and set to work, chopping up an assortment of fruits - ripe mangoes, juicy watermelon, tangy pineapple, and crisp apples. I carefully seeded and diced a fresh jalapeno, being sure to wash my hands thoroughly afterward to avoid any accidental burning sensation.

For the citrus dressing, I squeezed the juice of a few limes and oranges into a small bowl, adding a touch of honey for sweetness and a pinch of salt to balance the flavors. I then stirred in the diced jalapeno, allowing the spicy heat to infuse into the dressing.

Once everything was prepared, I tossed the fruits in a large bowl and drizzled the jalapeno-citrus dressing over them, gently mixing everything together to ensure each piece was coated in the zesty dressing. The colors of the fruits popped against the green flecks of jalapeno, creating a vibrant and enticing dish.

As my friends arrived, the aroma of grilling meat filled the air, but it was the fruit salad that caught their attention. They marveled at the unique combination of flavors and eagerly dug in, savoring the sweet and spicy medley of fruits.

The fruit salad was a hit, disappearing within minutes as everyone went back for second and third helpings. My friends raved about the refreshing and unexpected flavors, praising my culinary skills and asking for the recipe.

Since that day, the fruit salad with jalapeno-citrus dressing has become a staple in my kitchen. I have made it for countless gatherings and events, delighting friends and family with its bold and vibrant flavors. Each time I prepare it, I am transported back to that warm summer day when I stumbled upon the recipe and discovered a new favorite dish.

As the years have passed, I have added my own twists and variations to the recipe, experimenting with different fruits and spices to create unique flavor combinations. But the essence of the original recipe remains the same - a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and citrusy flavors that never fails to impress.

I may not remember where I first found the recipe for fruit salad with jalapeno-citrus dressing, but I am grateful for the happy memories and delicious meals it has brought into my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and discovering new recipes and flavors is a joy that never grows old.

As I sit here, reminiscing about that fateful summer day and the creation of the fruit salad that has become a beloved favorite, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures of good food and good company. Life may be filled with ups and downs, but a delicious meal shared with loved ones is always a moment of pure joy and contentment.

And so, I will continue to cook and create, sharing my love of food with those around me and passing on the recipes and stories that have enriched my life. The fruit salad with jalapeno-citrus dressing will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of happy memories and the simple joys of cooking.