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Thanksgiving Fruit Salad

A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits that celebrates the spirit of Thanksgiving, combining green apples, succulent oranges, and crunchy pecans, enhanced with a zesty dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Thanksgiving
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

Fruits
  • 2 medium green apples Cored and sliced
  • 2 medium red apples Cored and sliced
  • ¾ cup dried cranberries Adds tartness
  • 1 cup pecans Toasted
  • 1 cup grapes Halved
  • 3 medium navel oranges Peeled and segmented
  • 1 medium lemon Juiced
Dressing
  • ½ cup orange juice Freshly squeezed
  • ¼ cup white sugar To sweeten
  • ¼ tsp apple pie spice For flavor
  • Zest of 1 lemon Enhances brightness
  • Zest of 1 orange Enhances brightness

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and let them cool.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, sugar, apple pie spice, and the zests of lemon and orange. Whisk together and bring to a gentle boil. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Strain through a fine mesh sieve and let cool.
  3. Core and slice the green and red apples into bite-sized pieces, tossing them in the juice of half a lemon to prevent browning.
  4. Peel the oranges and segment them into bite-sized pieces.
Assembly
  1. In a large bowl, combine the green apples, red apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, grapes, and orange segments.
  2. Drizzle the cooled dressing over the fruit mixture and toss gently to coat.
Serving
  1. Serve the fruit salad chilled in a stunning glass bowl for visual appeal.

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Consider using organic fruits for enhanced flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt or fresh mint can elevate the dish.