Fruit salad is the perfect light and refreshing dish for any occasion. The sweet, juicy chunks of fresh fruits tossed together in a bowl make a colorful and crowd-pleasing side or dessert. But the key to taking fruit salad from boring to brilliant lies in the dressing.
The right dressing can bring the flavors of the fruits together in perfect harmony. It can make the fruits taste even sweeter and more vibrant. The texture and creaminess of a good dressing also enhances the mouthfeel and elevates the fruit salad experience.
So how do you choose the perfect dressing for fruit salad? There are a few key factors to keep in mind:
- Complementary flavors – Choose a dressing that enhances rather than competes with the flavors of the fruits. For example, citrus-based dressings pair wonderfully with tropical fruit salads.
- Balanced sweetness – The dressing should balance out the existing sweetness of the fruits. Too sweet a dressing can overwhelm the flavors.
- Texture – Thicker, creamier dressings tend to coat the fruits nicely and give a luxurious mouthfeel. But lighter vinaigrettes also have their place for a bright punch of flavor.
- Versatility – A versatile all-purpose dressing can let the flavors of different fruits shine through.
Considering these guidelines, here are 7 of the best dressings for fruit salad to give your fruits a flavor boost:
1. Classic Honey Lime Dressing
This tangy, sweet and sour dressing is a tried and tested favorite for fruit salads. The honey provides sweetness to complement the tart lime juice and zest. The touch of flavor and brightness it adds works with virtually any combination of fruits like:
- Berries – strawberries, blueberries, blackberries
- Melons – honeydew, cantaloupe, watermelon
- Tropical fruits – mango, pineapple, kiwi
- Citrus fruits – grapefruit, orange segments
- Grapes, pomegranate arils
To make it, simply whisk together:
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tsp lime zest
- Pinch of salt
This easy dressing comes together quickly and can be adjusted to taste, adding more honey for sweetness or more lime for tang. A sweet-tart fruit salad dressing perfect for summer!
2. Lemon Poppyseed Dressing
This creamy, lemony dressing is a refreshing choice for fruit salads with its bright citrus flavor and subtle crunch from poppy seeds. It’s a go-to dressing for a light summery salad with fruits like:
- Berries – strawberries, raspberries, blueberries
- Melons – watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew
- Peaches, nectarines, plums
- Apples, pears
- Seedless grapes
To make this dressing, simply whisk together:
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp poppy seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
The olive oil gives the dressing some body, while the honey balances out the tart lemon juice. The sprinkling of poppy seeds adds texture and nuttiness. Bright, lemony and well-balanced, this dressing really brings out the flavors of the fruits.
3. Balsamic Vinaigrette
Balsamic vinegar makes a wonderful flavor pairing with fruits. Its sweet tartness complements and enhances many fruits. A balsamic vinaigrette is ideal for fruits with higher sugar content and those with a hint of acidity like:
- Strawberries
- Blackberries
- Peaches
- Plums
- Grapes
- Oranges, grapefruit
- Apple
- Pear
To put together an easy balsamic vinaigrette:
- Whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar and 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Season with salt, pepper and a bit of honey or maple syrup to balance the tartness
The sweet, complex flavor of the balsamic vinegar makes this dressing very versatile. It can be used on fruit salads served as a side, dessert or even as part of a cheese board.
4. Citrus Poppy Seed Dressing
This tangy and creamy dressing combines citrus flavors with poppy seeds for added crunch. The citrus juices like orange, lime or lemon cut through the sweetness of fruits, while the honey and olive oil round out the tang. It’s fantastic on fruit salads with:
- Berries
- Melons – watermelon, honeydew, cantaloupe
- Citrus fruits – oranges, grapefruit, clementines
- Grapes
- Cherries
- Peaches
Make this dressing by whisking together:
- Juice of 1 lemon + 1 lime
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp poppy seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
The possibilities are endless for the types of citrus you can use – try blood orange, tangerine, or Meyer lemon. Let your imagination run wild with unique citrus combinations in this bright and beautiful dressing.
5. Creamy Orange Dressing
This creamy, dreamy citrus dressing is sweet, lush and perfect for fruit salads. The orange juice and zest provide a tangy citrus base, while yogurt or sour cream gives it a rich, creamy texture. It’s wonderful with:
- Berries
- Melons
- Citrus fruits
- Stone fruits like peaches, nectarines, apricots
- Apples
- Pears
- Grapes
Simply whisk together:
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- Pinch of salt
The possibilities are endless – swap lime, lemon or grapefruit juice for the orange. You can also use vanilla or cinnamon Greek yogurt for more flair. Thick, creamy and packed with citrus flavor, it’s ideal for upgrading fruit salads or breakfast bowls.
6. Fresh Herb Dressing
Fresh herbs like mint, basil and cilantro can make excellent flavor pairings with fruits. These leafy green herbs accentuate the crisp sweetness of fruits without overpowering them. Try a fresh herb dressing on:
- Berries
- Melons
- Citrus fruits
- Apples
- Pears
- Mangoes
- Pineapple
Make it by blending together:
- 1 cup loosely packed fresh mint or basil leaves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
The fresh green flavor brightens up fruit flavors beautifully. Other fresh herbs like thyme, tarragon or parsley can also be used. Add a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt for more body and richness.
7. Simple Maple Syrup Dressing
When you want a dressing that adds a touch of sweetness without masking the flavors of fresh fruits, maple syrup is the way to go. Pure maple syrup allows the natural flavors of fruits to shine through. It’s delightful on:
- Apples
- Pears
- Peaches
- Plums
- Berries
- Melons
- Pineapples
- Oranges
- Grapefruit
Just whisk together:
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Maple syrup has a delicate sweetness that complements fruits perfectly. You can also use agave or honey. This easy dressing stores well and can be made ahead – shake before using to emulsify.
Tips for Making Fruit Salad with Dressing
Now that we’ve covered some delicious dressings, here are some tips to take your fruit salad game to the next level:
1. Pick ripe, seasonal fruits
Choose fruits at the peak of ripeness for maximum flavor. Use a mix of soft delicate fruits like berries and firm fruits like apples or pineapple.
2. Prepare the fruits well
Wash, dry and cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces. Remove any seeds, stems or peels as needed. If adding apples or pears, toss them with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Don’t drown the fruits
Use just enough dressing to coat the fruits lightly and bring the flavors together. Too much dressing will make the salad soggy.
4. Combine fruits mindfully
For the best results, combine fruits that have complementary flavors and textures. For example, pair juicy berries with creamy melon chunks.
5. Toss gently
When adding the dressing, use a light hand to gently toss the fruits together. You want an even coating without bruising the delicate fruits.
6. Chill before serving
Let the dressed fruit salad chill for 10-15 minutes in the fridge so the flavors can mingle. The cool temperature also helps bring out the flavors.
7. Garnish and serve
Garnish the fruit salad with extra herbs or edible flowers. Serve chilled on its own, with yogurt, ice cream, pound cake or cookies.
Dressing Up Fruit Salads for Different Occasions
Fruit salads with delicious dressings are versatile dishes that work for many occasions and gatherings. Here are some tips for dressing up fruit salads:
For Potlucks or Picnics
Make it transportable – use fruits that hold up well like melons, grapes, oranges. Use a sturdy dressing like poppyseed or vinaigrette.
For Brunch
Make it fancy – use a mix of berries and exotic fruits. Drizzle with a pretty citrus dressing in a glass bowl for a touch of elegance.
For Dessert
Make it indulgent – use extra creamy dressings like yogurt or cream-based ones. Serve in parfait glasses layered with pound cake or cookies.
For Kids
Make it fun – sculpt fruit kebabs or skewers for interactive fruit salads kids can pick up with their hands. Serve dressing in small ramekins for dipping.
For Adults
Make it boozy – spike dressings with a splash of liqueur like Cointreau, rum or kirsch. Use fruits like pineapple, strawberries and cherries that pair well with alcohol.
Endless Possibilities with Fruit Salads
Fruit salads are incredibly versatile dishes that can be customized in endless ways by using seasonal fruits and creative dressings. Take inspiration from the dressings and tips we’ve covered to make fruit salads that look and taste amazing.
With the right dressing, you can turn simple fruit salads into crowd-pleasing desserts or light and healthy snacks. So grab your favorite fruits, whip up a dressing, and get ready to enjoy fruit salads at their very best!
Best Dressings for Fruit Salad
Ingredients
- Classic Honey Lime Dressing
- Lemon Poppyseed Dressing
- Balsamic Vinaigrette
- Citrus Poppy Seed Dressing
- Creamy Orange Dressing
- Fresh Herb Dressing
- Simple Maple Syrup Dressing
Instructions
- Chop, dice, or slice your choice of fruits like berries, melons, pineapple, grapes, oranges.
- Make your salad dressing while the fruit chills in the fridge.
- Add chopped fruits and any extras like nuts or mint to a large bowl.
- Drizzle the desired amount of dressing over the fruit mix.
- Gently toss the salad until fruits are evenly coated.
- Taste and add more dressing if needed.