This Sweet Heat Fruit Salad is perfect as a side dish at barbecues or picnics, or as a light dessert. The combination of sweet fruit and the spicy dressing creates a unique flavor profile that will surprise and delight your guests!
Sweet Heat Fruit Salad
Rated 5.0 stars by 2 users
Category
dessert/side dish/appetizer
Servings
4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
This Sweet Heat Fruit Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that expertly balances sweetness with a surprising kick. Featuring a medley of juicy pineapple, succulent strawberries, and ripe mango, it’s enhanced by crunchy cucumber and colorful red bell pepper, adding both texture and visual appeal.
The highlight of this salad is the Spicy Honey Lime Dressing, which infuses the fruit with a tantalizing blend of honey, fresh lime juice, and your unique Sweet Heat spice blend. This dressing delivers a delightful kick, thanks to the cayenne pepper and a hint of garlic and onion, making every bite an exciting experience.
Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a light dessert, this salad not only pleases the palate but also impresses with its bold flavors and vibrant colors. It's a unique twist on a classic fruit salad that is sure to become a favorite at any gathering!
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup mango, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
- For the Spicy Honey Lime Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon brownulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Sweet Heat spice blend
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated onion
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon MSG (optional)
Directions
1. Prepare the Fruit Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced pineapple, strawberries, mango, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Gently toss to mix.
2. Make the Spicy Honey Lime Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, brownulated sugar, salt, Sweet Heat spice blend, cayenne pepper, granulated garlic, granulated onion, paprika, and MSG (if using) until well combined.
3. Combine:
Drizzle the dressing over the fruit mixture. Toss gently to coat the fruit evenly with the dressing.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the fruit salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
5. Garnish:
Before serving, add the chopped mint leaves for a fresh touch, if desired.
Recipe Note
Fruit Variations: Feel free to mix in other fruits based on seasonality or preference. Options like kiwi, peaches, or watermelon would also complement the flavors well.
Adjusting Spice Levels: The amount of cayenne pepper and Sweet Heat spice blend can be adjusted according to your heat preference. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor, and increase gradually.
Honey Alternatives: If you prefer, you can substitute honey with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
Chilling Time: Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor as it allows the dressing to infuse into the fruits.
Serving Suggestions: This fruit salad works well as a refreshing side dish or a unique dessert. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats or seafood for a delightful contrast.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the salad is best enjoyed fresh, as the fruit may release juices and become softer over time.