This Easy Summer Fruit Salad is a refreshing mix of juicy fruits like watermelon, strawberries, and blueberries. It’s perfect for cooling off on hot days!
On a warm day, this salad feels like a hug from nature. I love adding a squeeze of lime for extra zing. It’s quick to whip up and is always a hit at gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches add a sweet juiciness to the salad. If they’re not in season, feel free to swap them for nectarines or even mangoes for a tropical twist.
Cherries: Fresh cherries bring a lovely burst of flavor. If they’re not available, you can substitute them with grapes or raspberries, which also provide sweetness.
Thyme: The fresh thyme adds a fragrant touch. If you’d rather not use it, try mint or basil for a different herbal note.
Honey or Maple Syrup: These optional ingredients are great for adding sweetness. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, agave syrup or even a few mashed ripe bananas could work!
How Do I Cut and Prepare the Fruit Properly?
Cutting up fruit may seem simple, but there’s a technique to make it easier and prevent mess!
- Start by washing all the fruit lightly under cold water.
- For cherries, use a sharp knife to cut them in half and remove the pit. A cherry pitter makes this easier!
- Slice your peaches, nectarines, and plums around the pit. Cut them into thin wedges for easy mixing.
Being gentle while mixing helps keep the fruit intact, making your salad look beautiful. Don’t forget to chill it for the best flavor on a hot day!
Easy Summer Fruit Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 2 ripe nectarines, thinly sliced
- 2 ripe plums, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (optional, for a citrusy zing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fruit salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Chilling it for 30 minutes before serving makes it even more refreshing, bringing the total time to around 45 minutes. Quick and simple for a delicious summer treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Wash the Fruit:
Start by washing all your fruits under cold running water. This helps to remove any dirt or pesticides.
2. Prepare the Cherries:
Next, pit the cherries and cut them in halves. If you have a cherry pitter, it will make this job easier!
3. Slice the Stone Fruits:
Thinly slice the peaches, nectarines, and plums. Make sure your slices are uniform for a pretty presentation and easy mixing.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced peaches, nectarines, plums, pitted cherries, blueberries, and blackberries. It’s a colorful mix!
5. Add Sweetness and Flavor:
If you want, drizzle the honey or maple syrup and fresh lime juice over the fruit. This adds a touch of sweetness and a zesty kick!
6. Toss it All Together:
Gently toss the fruit with a spatula or wooden spoon to combine everything without crushing the fruit.
7. Add Thyme and Chill:
If using, sprinkle the fresh thyme leaves on top. Then, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When ready to serve, scoop a generous mix of the salad into bowls. Enjoy this refreshing treat on a hot summer day!
This vibrant and juicy fruit salad is a delightful way to cool down and enjoy the flavors of the season!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out any of the fruits for your favorites or whatever is in season. Some great alternatives include watermelon, pineapple, kiwi, or cantaloupe.
How Long Will This Fruit Salad Last in the Fridge?
This fruit salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The fruit may release some juice, so give it a gentle toss before serving if needed!
Can I Make This Fruit Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the fruit and mix it without the dressing a few hours in advance. Just wait to add honey, lime juice, and herbs until right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Salad?
This salad is lovely on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it over yogurt or cottage cheese for added creaminess, or as a topping on pancakes or waffles! Enjoy this versatile dish however you like!
