Sunshine Salad is a delightful and refreshing fruit salad that brings a burst of tropical flavors to your table. Perfect for warm weather or any time you need a taste of summer, this simple and quick recipe combines the sweetness of pineapple, mandarin oranges, and bananas with a creamy vanilla pudding. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s great for picnics, potlucks, or a healthy dessert option.
Ingredients
- 1 fresh pineapple, cored and diced
- 1 can mandarin oranges in light syrup (15 oz can), drained
- 2 bananas, peeled and sliced
- 1 package of sugar-free vanilla instant pudding mix (4-serving size)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit:
- Core and cut the fresh pineapple into bite-sized chunks. Peel and slice the bananas.
- Strain the juice from the canned mandarin oranges.
- Combine the Fruit:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple chunks, sliced bananas, and drained mandarin oranges.
- Combine the fruits gently to ensure an even distribution.
- Prepare the Pudding:
- In a separate bowl, prepare the Jell-O sugar-free vanilla instant pudding according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves mixing the pudding powder with cold water or milk until it thickens.
- Mix the Salad:
- Pour the prepared vanilla pudding over the mixed fruit in the large bowl. Gently fold the pudding into the fruit until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Chill:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set further.
- Serve:
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to ensure the pudding is well distributed. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or dessert.
Conclusion
Sunshine Salad is a perfect blend of tropical fruits and creamy vanilla pudding that brings a touch of sunshine to any meal. Its refreshing taste and easy preparation make it an ideal choice for summer gatherings, family dinners, or anytime you crave a sweet, fruity treat. Enjoy this light and delicious salad with loved ones, and savor the simple pleasures of fresh fruit combined with a creamy, delightful twist.