This Fruit Salad with Pudding is a refreshing and creamy dessert that combines a variety of fruits with a sweet vanilla pudding mixture. It’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or as a light dessert option.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple tidbits, drained
• 1 (11-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the drained pineapple tidbits, mandarin oranges, halved grapes, and sliced strawberries.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
3. Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Pour the pudding mixture over the fruit and gently toss to coat all the fruit evenly.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutrients

Per serving (1 cup):

• Calories: Approximately 180
• Total Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 100mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 25g
• Protein: 2g

A Perfectly Balanced Dessert

The combination of fruit and pudding in this recipe offers a perfect balance between indulgence and freshness. The fruits provide natural sweetness and freshness, while the pudding mixture adds a creamy richness that complements the fruit’s natural tartness. The sweet vanilla pudding acts as a binding agent that brings together the different fruits, giving each bite a creamy, velvety texture. This balance makes it a versatile dessert that can be served at any occasion—whether it’s a holiday celebration, a birthday party, or a simple family meal.

The variety of fruits in this dessert not only adds different flavors but also provides several nutritional benefits. Fruits like pineapple, mandarin oranges, grapes, and strawberries are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, which contribute to a healthy diet. Meanwhile, the addition of the creamy pudding brings a touch of indulgence without making the dessert overly rich or heavy. The result is a dessert that feels satisfying but light, perfect for those who want to enjoy something sweet without feeling overly full.

The Nutritional Benefits of Fruit in Fruit Salad with Pudding

In addition to its delicious flavor, Fruit Salad with Pudding offers a wealth of nutritional benefits thanks to its base of fresh fruits.

1. Pineapple: Pineapple is a tropical fruit that is high in vitamin C, which is essential for boosting the immune system and promoting healthy skin. It also contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids in digestion and reduces inflammation.

2. Mandarin Oranges: Mandarins are packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. They help to strengthen the immune system, aid digestion, and promote heart health. Their natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor of the dessert.

3. Grapes: Grapes, especially red and purple varieties, contain antioxidants like flavonoids and resveratrol, which are known to protect heart health. They are also a good source of vitamins C and K, which contribute to healthy bones and skin.

4. Strawberries: Strawberries are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. They are a rich source of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which support brain health. They also provide a significant amount of vitamin C, which is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system.

By incorporating these fruits into your dessert, you’re not only making a treat that tastes great but also one that provides important nutrients to support overall health. The fiber content in the fruit helps with digestion and promotes a sense of fullness, while the antioxidants help fight oxidative stress and inflammation.

Why Choose Instant Pudding Mix?

While many recipes call for homemade custard or cream-based fillings, using instant vanilla pudding mix in this recipe makes it incredibly quick and easy to prepare. Instant pudding mix allows you to create a smooth and creamy filling in just minutes, without the need for cooking or complicated steps. This makes the Fruit Salad with Pudding an ideal dessert for busy cooks who want something delicious but don’t have much time to spare.

The convenience of instant pudding mix does not sacrifice flavor or texture. The result is a perfectly creamy and smooth consistency that perfectly complements the fruits, binding them together in a harmonious way. The pudding mix, when combined with milk and sour cream, provides a light and fluffy texture that’s not too heavy, making it the perfect accompaniment to the fresh fruit. The addition of vanilla extract enhances the flavor, giving it a familiar, comforting taste that pairs wonderfully with the tangy fruits.

Customizing the Fruit Salad with Pudding

One of the best things about Fruit Salad with Pudding is its versatility. The basic recipe can be adapted to suit personal preferences or whatever fruits are in season. While the recipe calls for pineapple, mandarin oranges, grapes, and strawberries, feel free to swap or add in other fruits such as:

• Peaches: Fresh, juicy peaches add a soft sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the pudding.
• Apples: Crisp apples, diced into small chunks, bring a satisfying crunch to the dessert.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas offer a creamy texture and a naturally sweet flavor.
• Blueberries: These small berries can add a burst of flavor and color, along with additional antioxidants.
• Kiwi: For a tangy twist, kiwi adds an exotic flavor and a beautiful pop of green.

Feel free to get creative with your fruit choices depending on your preferences or what’s available. If you prefer a dairy-free or vegan version, you can substitute the sour cream with a plant-based yogurt or cream and use a non-dairy milk such as almond milk.

How to Serve and Store Fruit Salad with Pudding

This dessert is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together and the pudding mixture to firm up. To ensure the fruit salad stays fresh and the pudding retains its creamy texture, it’s essential to refrigerate the dessert for at least two hours before serving. This resting time also allows the fruit to release its juices into the pudding, creating a more cohesive flavor profile.

The Fruit Salad with Pudding can be served directly from a large bowl or divided into individual portions. For added visual appeal, serve it in small glass jars or cups. The layers of fruit and creamy pudding create an eye-catching presentation that is sure to impress guests at any event.

If you have leftovers, store the Fruit Salad with Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the fruit may soften slightly over time, but the flavors will continue to develop and meld together, making it just as delicious the next day.

Conclusion: A Delightful and Easy Dessert

Fruit Salad with Pudding is an easy-to-make, refreshing dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this dessert combines the natural sweetness of fruit with the creamy, comforting texture of vanilla pudding. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite fruits and adjusted to suit dietary preferences. By choosing simple yet wholesome ingredients, this fruit salad provides a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants while still offering a delightful indulgence. With its fresh, vibrant flavors and creamy texture, Fruit Salad with Pudding is sure to become a beloved recipe in your dessert repertoire.