Vibrant Tropical Fruit Salad with Citrus Poppy Seed Dressing

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Dive into a refreshing and colorful treat with this Vibrant Tropical Fruit Salad featuring a delightful Citrus Poppy Seed Dressing. This salad combines a medley of juicy tropical fruits with a zesty, sweet dressing that enhances their natural flavors. It’s perfect for a summer picnic, a healthy dessert option, or a festive side dish that’s sure to brighten any table.

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

  • 12 mandarin oranges, peeled and segments divided (some for dressing, rest for salad)
  • 2 cups strawberries, sliced
  • 5 kiwis, peeled and sliced
  • 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into bite-size chunks
  • 3 mangoes, peeled, pitted, and cut into bite-size chunks

For the Citrus Poppy Seed Dressing:

  • Juice of 1 medium lemon
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • ¼ cup honey
  • ½ teaspoon ginger paste, or grated fresh ginger
  • ½ teaspoon poppy seeds

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Fruits: In a large bowl, combine the mandarin orange segments, sliced strawberries, sliced kiwis, pineapple chunks, and mango chunks. Gently toss to mix.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lime juice, honey, ginger paste, and poppy seeds until well combined. The dressing should have a vibrant citrus flavor balanced with the sweetness of the honey and a slight kick from the ginger.
  3. Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the prepared fruit and toss gently to ensure all the fruit is evenly coated. Wrap the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes to let the flavors harmonize.
  4. Serve: Once chilled, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and serve chilled.

Conclusion:

This Vibrant Tropical Fruit Salad with Citrus Poppy Seed Dressing is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. The combination of sweet and tangy fruits with the zesty, sweet dressing makes this salad a perfect addition to any meal, especially during the warmer months. It’s a healthy, refreshing way to enjoy the flavors of tropical fruits in a simple, yet delicious way. Enjoy this delightful mix of colors and flavors that brings a touch of tropical paradise to your dining experience!