Mom’s Creamy New York Fruit Salad is a delightful and indulgent dish that brings a burst of freshness and creaminess to your table. This salad perfectly balances a medley of colorful fruits with a luscious cream dressing, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Whether it’s for a summer picnic, a holiday gathering, or a simple family brunch, this fruit salad is sure to impress.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 180
Protein: 3 grams
Carbohydrates: 27 grams
Fat: 8 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Sugar: 10 grams
Sodium: 50 mg

Why Make This Mom’s Creamy New York Fruit Salad

Mom’s Creamy New York Fruit Salad is beloved for its simple yet delightful combination of ingredients. The sweetness of fresh fruits, coupled with the indulgent creaminess of whipped cream and sour cream, creates a comforting and delicious side dish that appeals to all ages. This salad not only tastes great but also offers visual appeal with its vibrant colors, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and requires no cooking, making it an easy choice for busy days.

How to Make Mom’s Creamy New York Fruit Salad

Creating this delicious fruit salad takes only a few simple steps, perfect for any skill level in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

2 cups mixed fresh fruits (e.g., apples, bananas, grapes, and berries)
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup sour cream
1 cup whipped cream
1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a large bowl, combine the mixed fresh fruits and mini marshmallows. This vibrant mix not only adds various flavors but also brings a lively aesthetic to your salad.

Step 2: Mixing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, whipped cream, honey or sugar (if using), and lemon juice until smooth. This creamy mixture will coat the fruits beautifully, adding richness.

Step 3: Combining

Gently fold the cream mixture into the fruit until evenly coated. Be careful not to mash the fruits; you want to maintain their shape and texture for a refreshing bite.

Step 4: Finishing

Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This waiting time allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall experience. Enjoy your creamy fruit salad!

How to Serve Mom’s Creamy New York Fruit Salad

Serve Mom’s Creamy New York Fruit Salad in a large glass bowl to showcase its colorful ingredients. You can garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of elegance. This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats at a summer barbecue, makes for a perfect potluck dish, or can stand alone as a sweet snack.

How to Store Mom’s Creamy New York Fruit Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the fruit may release some juices, so it’s best to consume it fairly quickly for optimal freshness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Mom’s Creamy New York Fruit Salad

Choose seasonal fruits for the best flavor and sweetness. Berries, melons, and peaches are excellent options in the summer.
Feel free to swap out the mini marshmallows for chopped nuts or toasted coconut for a different texture.
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and whipped cream.
Add a splash of vanilla extract to the cream mixture for additional flavor.
Make the salad ahead of time but add the delicate fruits, like bananas, just before serving to prevent browning.

Delicious Variations

Consider these fun twists to customize your salad:

Tropical Mix: Use tropical fruits like pineapple, kiwi, and mango.
Berry Delight: Focus on a combination of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a berry-centric salad.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned fruit for this recipe?
While fresh fruit is recommended for the best flavor and texture, canned fruit can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain it well to avoid excess juice.

2. How can I prevent bananas from browning?
Add a teaspoon of lemon juice to sliced bananas to help preserve their color and freshness.

3. Can this fruit salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it chilled until serving.

4. Is this fruit salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

5. How do I make this salad vegan?
Substitute sour cream and whipped cream with plant-based alternatives like coconut yogurt or whipped coconut cream.

Conclusion

Mom’s Creamy New York Fruit Salad is the perfect treat for any occasion, bringing together the freshness of fruits with a creamy dressing that everyone loves. Its simplicity and versatility make it a must-try recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and soon you’ll have a bowl of joy that your family and friends will rave about. Enjoy making and sharing this classic fruit salad!