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The Very Best Fruit Salad — Fresh, Juicy & Full of Color

There’s something magical about a big bowl of fresh fruit salad. It’s colorful, refreshing, and bursting with natural sweetness — like summer in a spoon! ☀️🍇🍍 This Very Best Fruit Salad is a vibrant mix of strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, kiwi, mango, grapes, raspberries, and mandarin oranges, all tossed in a light apricot-lemon glaze that enhances their natural flavor without overpowering them. It’s sweet, tangy, juicy, and absolutely beautiful to serve — perfect for brunches, holidays, barbecues, or simply as a healthy dessert. Unlike other fruit salads that get watery or mushy, this one stays fresh and glossy for hours. Each bite delivers a rainbow of flavor — from the tropical zing of pineapple and mango to the tart pop of raspberries and the sweetness of ripe grapes.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍇 Fruit Mix
  • 1 lb strawberries hulled and halved
  • 10 oz blueberries
  • 6 oz raspberries
  • 2 cups green grapes
  • 2 cups purple grapes
  • 5 kiwi peeled and sliced
  • 2 large mangoes peeled and diced
  • 1 pineapple peeled, cored, and cubed
  • 2 11 oz cans mandarin oranges, drained well
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish
🍯 Citrus-Apricot Glaze
  • ⅓ cup apricot preserves
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small saucepan (for the glaze)
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Citrus zester or fine grater
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Serving bowl or platter

Method
 

Step 1 – Prepare the Fruit
  1. Wash and dry all the fresh fruit gently.
  2. Cut strawberries, kiwi, pineapple, and mango into bite-sized pieces. Drain the mandarin oranges well to remove excess liquid.
Step 2 – Make the Glaze
  1. In a small saucepan, combine apricot preserves, lemon juice, and sugar.
  2. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy — about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3 – Combine the Fruit
  1. In a large mixing bowl, add all the prepared fruit — strawberries, grapes, blueberries, raspberries, pineapple, kiwi, mango, and mandarin oranges.
Step 4 – Add Lemon Zest and Glaze
  1. Sprinkle lemon zest over the fruit for brightness. Pour the cooled apricot glaze evenly over the top.
Step 5 – Toss Gently
  1. Using a large spoon or spatula, toss everything carefully until all the fruit is coated with the shiny glaze. Be gentle to avoid crushing soft fruits like raspberries.
Step 6 – Chill and Serve
  1. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
  2. When ready to serve, garnish with fresh mint leaves and enjoy a bowl of juicy, golden sunshine! 🌈🍓🍍

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended — fruit will lose texture when thawed.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the glaze and cut firm fruits (pineapple, mango, grapes) in advance. Add delicate fruits (berries, oranges) just before serving.
🥄 Variations
Tropical Paradise: Add papaya, banana, or coconut flakes for an island twist.
Berry Lovers Mix: Focus on strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries with a honey-lime drizzle.
Citrus Splash: Add orange segments and a few drops of orange zest for more brightness.
Honey-Lime Dressing: Swap apricot preserves with 2 tbsp honey and 1 tbsp lime juice.
Spiced Elegance: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the glaze for a cozy winter version.
Frozen Treat: Serve over yogurt or blend leftovers into smoothies or popsicles.
Vegan-Friendly: Use vegan sugar or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use frozen fruit?
Fresh fruit is best for texture and color. If using frozen, thaw and drain completely first.
2. What fruit should I avoid adding?
Bananas and apples brown quickly and get mushy, so add them only right before serving if desired.
3. Can I skip the glaze?
Yes, but the glaze enhances flavor and helps preserve freshness.
4. Can I replace apricot preserves?
Peach, pineapple, or orange marmalade work great as substitutes.
5. Is the salad very sweet?
No — it’s lightly sweetened to highlight the fruit’s natural flavor.
6. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! It’s perfect for prepping a few hours in advance. Just add delicate berries right before serving.
7. How can I keep the fruit from getting soggy?
Drain canned fruits and juicy berries well. The glaze also helps lock in freshness.
8. Can I serve this with yogurt or whipped cream?
Absolutely — it’s delicious with Greek yogurt, coconut cream, or whipped topping.
9. Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes — honey or maple syrup can replace sugar in the glaze.
10. What makes this fruit salad “the very best”?
It’s the combination — a balance of sweet, tart, juicy, and tropical fruits brought together with a light, glossy glaze that keeps everything vibrant and flavorful.
🏁 Conclusion
This Very Best Fruit Salad is more than just a side — it’s a celebration of color, freshness, and natural sweetness. 🍇🍍🍓
From the juicy berries to the tropical mango and pineapple, every bite is bursting with sunshine. The apricot-lemon glaze ties it all together, creating a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Serve it at brunch, take it to a picnic, or keep it chilled in your fridge for a healthy snack — this fruit salad is guaranteed to brighten your table and your day.