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Tropical Fruit Salad with Citrus Zest

Tropical Fruit Salad with Citrus Zest for a Refreshing Twist

Bright, tropical flavors dance together in this Tropical Fruit Salad with Citrus Zest, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Tropical
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Pineapple, diced Adds bright, tropical sweetness and juicy texture; substitute with fresh mango if unavailable.
  • 1 cup Mango, diced Provides sultry sweetness and silky texture; can be replaced by ripe peaches or other stone fruits.
  • 2 pieces Kiwi, peeled and diced Offers a tangy pop and vibrant green hue; if unavailable, use green grapes for sweetness.
  • 1 cup Papaya, diced Contributes gentle sweetness and smoothness; substitute with cantaloupe for similar texture and flavor.
  • 1 piece Banana, sliced Adds creaminess and natural sweetness; for butteriness, substitute with avocado.
  • 1/2 cup Pomegranate Seeds Introduce a burst of tangy juiciness and visual appeal; can be replaced with chopped berries.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Mint Leaves Infuses cooling herbal notes and a refreshing scent; dried mint can be used but should be used sparingly.
For the Dressing
  • 1 tablespoon Orange Zest Provides brightness and acidity; substitute with more lemon or lime juice as needed.
  • 1/4 cup Orange Juice Enhances freshness; use lemon juice as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice Enhances freshness; use lemon juice as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Adds sweetness; use agave or maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
  • 1 pinch Salt A pinch intensifies all flavors; optional depending on dietary needs.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • salad tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by washing all your fruits thoroughly. Peel and core the pineapple, then cut it into bite-sized pieces. Next, peel the mango and dice it similarly, followed by the kiwi and papaya. Slice the banana into uniform coins to ensure even texture.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, gently add all the prepared fruits: pineapple, mango, kiwi, papaya, and banana. Make sure they are all roughly the same size to keep the presentation appealing.
  3. Using your hands or a pair of salad tongs, carefully toss the fruits together. Aim for a delicate mix, ensuring the fruits combine without becoming mushy.
  4. Sprinkle the pomegranate seeds over the tossed fruit mixture, mixing them in without crushing the delicate fruit.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange zest, orange juice, lime juice, honey (if using), and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined.
  6. Once your dressing is ready, pour it over the fruit salad in the large bowl. Gently stir to ensure all pieces of fruit are coated evenly with the citrus dressing.
  7. Transfer the salad into a serving bowl or platter and top with extra fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and aroma.
  8. Enjoy the salad immediately or refrigerate it for up to one hour for flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 2gSodium: 5mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 4gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Gentle tossing is essential to maintain the salad's refreshing profile and avoid browning of softer fruits like bananas.

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