This Grape Salad is a creamy, sweet, and delightful dish that’s perfect as a side for family gatherings or as a refreshing dessert on a warm day. The combination of rich cream cheese and tangy sour cream with sweet grapes makes for a perfectly balanced and indulgent treat. Here’s how to put together this easy and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 & 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 4 cups seedless grapes (you can use a mix of red and green for color variety)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and free of lumps.
- Add the sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Continue to beat until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Mix the Grapes:
- Wash the grapes thoroughly and pat them dry. If you prefer smaller pieces, you can halve the grapes, but they are typically used whole in this salad.
- Add the grapes to the bowl with the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold the grapes into the mixture to ensure they are fully coated with the dressing.
- Chill the Salad:
- Transfer the grape mixture to a serving dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve.
- Add the Topping:
- Just before serving, sprinkle the top of the salad evenly with light brown sugar. The sugar will add a slight crunch and enhance the sweetness of the dish.
- Serve:
- Serve the chilled grape salad as a dessert or a side dish at brunches, picnics, or potlucks. It’s particularly refreshing during the summer months but can be enjoyed year-round.
Tips:
- Grape Varieties: Using a combination of red and green grapes not only makes the salad colorful but also adds a variety of flavors. Make sure to use seedless grapes for ease of eating.
- Additional Toppings: For added texture and flavor, consider sprinkling chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top along with the brown sugar.
- Serving Options: This salad can also be served as a dessert with a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.
Conclusion:
Grape Salad is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Its creamy texture combined with the burst of sweetness from the grapes makes it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether as a dessert or a side, this grape salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family meal. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures in this simple yet delicious recipe!