Would you eat a lettuce salad without any dressing? We didn’t think so. So why do we so often not bother to dress fruit salad? Good question. We’re glad we asked it.
After reviewing an enthralling conversation on ChowHound (one of our go-to culinary resources here at The Knickerbocker Glory), we’ve come to an unequivocal decision. We’re of the firm opinion that fruit salad should have a dressing. Something that heightens the flavor of the fruit while enticing the eater to spoon another mouthful into their face. After all, why shouldn’t fruit get a little extra love and attention? It’s super healthy, fresh and perfect as a side dish for a Summer BBQ! Never mind the standard fruit plate, let’s dress it up!
source via Rachel Schultz
After much delicious experimentation, we’ve found 3 worth-while, tried, tested and true options for you to innovate the standard fruit salad and really make it something that shines at your next Summer party – be it a yard full, or just yourself, on a quiet Summer afternoon, with a glass of Riesling and a sky full of sun.
1. Honey and/or whipping cream. A classic. Using high quality honey and/or whipping cream can give a fruit salad a dash of sweetness to highlight the prime focus of the dish: the fruit! Homemade whipping cream takes less than 10 minutes to prepare and can be kept in the fridge up to 12 hours before guests arrive. Spoon chunks of fresh, seasonal Summer fruit like berries, melon, grapes and kiwi wedges into bowls, top with a plunk of fresh whipped cream and drizzle lightly with local honey (found at your nearest Farmer’s Market) to top it all off. And if you want to get really fancy, garnish with a sprig of mint.
2. A cream-based dressing. This option is a bit more complicated than the previous, but just as good. We find creme fraiche works wonders here because it’s so light yet has that hint of sour, to really contrast the natural sweetness of fruit. Chop up some fresh herbs like mint or basil and mix well. You could even add a dash of crushed pink peppercorns, cinnamon, or vanilla for a touchy of whimsy and aromatic spice.
3. Something perky: Citrus! Those of you who cook regularly probably know that a splash of fresh lemon or lime, or even the zest of an orange can brighten savory dishes; The same is true for fruit salad. On lazy Summer days, we’ll often just chop up some fruit, cut an orange in half and then squeeze! Easy peasy, right? Be creative here – experiment! We highlight recommend a splash of berry liquor, along with the citrus to compliment and sweeten.
Of course, you can combine any of the above to create whole new fruit salad wow moments! Reinvent the classic fruit salad by innovating how it all comes together. We guarantee you’ll receive lots of oohs and aahs at the next dinner party!
Keep Eating! Keep Innovating!
What’s your go-to fruit salad? Which fruits do you always include? Are there any you refuse to incorporate? How do you feel about fruit salad dressings? Share your thoughts below or meet us on the Facebook page!
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