Name: Summer Fruit Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon maple syrup (more if desired); ½ teaspoon grated ginger; Pinch of sea salt; 10 strawberries, sliced; 2 peaches, sliced; ½ cup Bing cherries, pitted and sliced; ½ cup blueberries; ½ cup raspberries; ¼ cup fresh basil (more for garnish); ¼ cup fresh mint (more for garnish)

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This Summer Fruit Salad is a vibrant celebration of nature’s sweetest treasures, bursting with juicy flavors and refreshing textures. Crisp apples, velvety peaches, and succulent berries come together in a symphony of colors and tastes.

Each bite offers a delightful contrast of crunch and softness, making it a feast for both the palate and the eyes. Perfect for warm days, this salad is a guilt-free indulgence that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an effortless way to brighten any meal or gathering. The natural sweetness of the fruits is enhanced by a hint of citrus, creating a light and zesty finish.

Whether as a side dish or a standalone treat, this salad is a summer essential that’s sure to impress. Dive in and savor the season’s best!

Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients

For the Dressing:
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
1 teaspoon maple syrup (adjust to taste, or substitute with honey)
½ teaspoon grated ginger (use fresh ginger for a zesty kick)
Pinch of sea salt (enhances the flavors)
For the Salad:
10 strawberries, sliced (hulled and rinsed)
2 peaches, sliced (ripe but firm)
½ cup Bing cherries, pitted and sliced (or substitute with any sweet cherry variety)
½ cup blueberries (fresh or frozen, thawed)
½ cup raspberries (gently rinsed and patted dry)
¼ cup fresh basil, more for garnish (torn or chopped)
¼ cup fresh mint, more for garnish (torn or chopped)

Simple Steps to a Refreshing Salad

Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lime juice, maple syrup, grated ginger, and sea salt until well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, gently toss together the sliced strawberries, peaches, cherries, blueberries, raspberries, basil, and mint.
Add the Dressing: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the fruit mixture. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or individual plates. Garnish with additional fresh basil and mint leaves for a vibrant finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions

This Summer Fruit Salad is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. Serve it as a refreshing side at your next BBQ, alongside grilled chicken or fish. For a light breakfast, top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of granola. It also makes a stunning dessert when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of honey.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Tips

To keep your fruit salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you’re making it ahead, wait to add the dressing until just before serving to prevent the fruit from becoming too soft. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 1 month.

Mix It Up: Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Swap out the fruits based on what’s in season—try adding mango, pineapple, or kiwi. For a tangy twist, replace the maple syrup with honey or agave. If you’re not a fan of basil and mint, experiment with other herbs like cilantro or tarragon for a unique flavor profile.

Quick Prep: Time-Saving Tips

To save time, use pre-sliced or frozen fruits (just thaw them first). You can also prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. If you’re short on time, skip the slicing and toss whole berries and cherries into the mix for a quicker, equally delicious version.

Essential Tools: Equipment Guidance

For this recipe, you’ll need a medium bowl for the dressing and a large bowl for tossing the fruit. A sharp knife and cutting board are essential for slicing the fruit, and a microplane or fine grater works best for grating the ginger. A whisk will help you blend the dressing ingredients smoothly.