Why Make This Recipe
Sweet Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing is a delightful and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of winter. This colorful salad combines some of the sweetest fruits of the season, like mandarin oranges and pomegranates, with a warm, spiced syrup. It’s not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes! This salad is easy to make and is a great way to incorporate fresh fruits into your diet during the colder months. It makes an excellent side dish for holiday gatherings or a healthy dessert option to satisfy your sweet tooth.
How to Make Sweet Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing
Ingredients:
- 10 Cuties mandarin oranges
- 4 Fuji apples
- 2 pomegranates
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 vanilla bean, split
Directions:
- Segment the mandarin oranges by slicing off the ends, removing all peel and pith, then carefully slicing between membranes to release individual segments. Set aside.
- Core and dice the Fuji apples into bite-sized pieces, optionally tossing with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Carefully remove the arils from the pomegranates by scoring the pomegranate around its equator, pulling it apart, and tapping the back with a heavy spoon.
- In a small saucepan, combine granulated sugar, water, cinnamon sticks, and split vanilla bean, scraping seeds into the liquid and adding the pod.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then simmer for 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the mandarin orange segments, diced apples, and pomegranate arils.
- Once the syrup has cooled, remove the cinnamon sticks and vanilla bean, then pour the syrup over the fruit and toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill thoroughly. Serve cold.
How to Serve Sweet Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing
Serve this fruit salad as a refreshing side dish during festive meals or as a light dessert. It pairs nicely with roasted meats or can be enjoyed on its own. You can also offer it at brunch or a casual gathering. Just make sure to serve it chilled for the best flavor!
How to Store Sweet Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The cinnamon vanilla dressing will marinate the fruits further, enhancing the flavors as it sits. Just give it a gentle toss before serving again.
Tips to Make Sweet Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing
- Make sure to use ripe fruit for the best flavor in your salad.
- If you can’t find fresh pomegranates, you can use frozen pomegranate arils instead.
- You can adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less sugar based on your taste preference.
Variation
Try adding other winter fruits like pears or cranberries for a twist on this recipe. You can also substitute honey for the sugar in the dressing for a different flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this fruit salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and it will be ready to serve.
What can I substitute for Fuji apples?
You can use any sweet apple variety, such as Gala or Honeycrisp.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Sweet Winter Fruit Salad is naturally gluten-free! Enjoy it without any worries.
Sweet Winter Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Vanilla Dressing
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A refreshing winter fruit salad featuring mandarin oranges, apples, and pomegranates with a warm cinnamon vanilla dressing.
Ingredients
- 10 Cuties mandarin oranges
- 4 Fuji apples
- 2 pomegranates
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 vanilla bean, split
Instructions
- Segment the mandarin oranges by slicing off the ends, removing all peel and pith, then carefully slicing between membranes to release individual segments. Set aside.
- Core and dice the Fuji apples into bite-sized pieces, optionally tossing with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Carefully remove the arils from the pomegranates by scoring the pomegranate around its equator, pulling it apart, and tapping the back with a heavy spoon.
- In a small saucepan, combine granulated sugar, water, cinnamon sticks, and split vanilla bean, scraping seeds into the liquid and adding the pod.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then simmer for 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the mandarin orange segments, diced apples, and pomegranate arils.
- Once the syrup has cooled, remove the cinnamon sticks and vanilla bean, then pour the syrup over the fruit and toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill thoroughly. Serve cold.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dressing will marinate the fruits, enhancing the flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American