Refreshing Apple Pear and Grape Salad with Creamy Greek Yogurt and Almonds

Fruit salads offer a fantastic way to savor the natural sweetness of fresh produce along with the visual appeal of colorful ingredients. This apple, pear, and grape salad is not only refreshing but also a perfect choice for a light dessert, a wholesome snack, or a vibrant side dish. Topped with creamy Greek yogurt dressing and crunchy almond slivers, this dish is a celebration of flavors and nutrition.

Ingredients You'll Need

To craft this delightful salad, you'll require:

• 2 apples (any variety of your choice, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp)

• 2 pears (Bartlett or Anjou work well)

• 1 cup of seedless grapes (choose between red or green for variety)

• 1 cup of Greek yogurt (opt for non-fat or full-fat based on preference)

• 2 tablespoons honey (adjust based on sweetness preference)

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup slivered almonds (toasted for an enhanced flavor)

• A pinch of salt

  
  

Gathering these ingredients is easy, and using fresh, ripe fruits ensures maximum flavor and texture. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals that support a healthy lifestyle.

Preparing the Fruit

Start by washing your fruits thoroughly, ensuring they're clean and ready to eat. For the apples and pears, core and slice them into bite-sized pieces. Keeping the skin adds color and nutrition, so there’s no need to peel them. For the grapes, you can slice them in half to make them easier to eat and to mix with the other ingredients.

Once your fruits are prepped, combine them in a large mixing bowl. Gently toss the apples, pears, and grapes together, ensuring a colorful medley that’s pleasing to the eye. This colorful assortment not only enhances presentation but also makes for a nutritious snack. For example, apples contain about 4 grams of fiber each, while pears deliver approximately 6 grams, supporting digestive health.

Crafting the Greek Yogurt Dressing

The creamy dressing ties the salad together. In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy.

If you prefer a sweeter dressing, feel free to increase the honey. This dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the crunchy fruits and adds healthy protein. A standard serving of Greek yogurt (about 150 grams) contains around 15 grams of protein, making this salad a filling choice.

Assembling the Salad

Now, it’s time to put everything together. Drizzle the Greek yogurt dressing over the fruit mixture in the bowl. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, gently fold the dressing into the fruits, ensuring even coverage without crushing the grapes.

Finish by sprinkling slivered almonds over the salad for that satisfying crunch. These nuts contribute healthy fats, which are essential for satiety and can help keep you feeling full longer. Just a quarter-cup of almonds provides about 15 grams of healthy fats and 6 grams of protein.

Ad delightful side dish for any recipe. Serves 4

High angle view of Greek yogurt dressing drizzling over a fresh fruit salad.

Enjoying Your Salad

This apple, pear, and grape salad can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for up to an hour. If you're preparing it in advance, a drizzle of lemon juice over the apples and pears can help prevent browning and maintain their fresh look.

This salad works beautifully as a light dessert or a savory snack. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Imagine enjoying this fresh salad alongside a piece of grilled salmon. It's a nutritious choice that’s satisfying without being heavy.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients

This salad is not just visually appealing; it is also a smart choice for anyone aiming to enhance their diet.

• Apples are known for their fiber content and antioxidants, which can support heart health. One medium apple contains about 95 calories and 4 grams of dietary fiber—beneficial for digestive wellness.

• Pears are sweet and juicy, providing vitamin C and potassium, with around 100 calories and 6 grams of fiber in one medium fruit.

• Grapes are hydrating and packed with vitamins, while also providing heart-healthy benefits. They are about 70% water, making them an excellent snack for hydration. A serving of grapes (about 1 cup) has approximately 104 calories and supports cardiovascular health.

• Greek yogurt offers a fantastic source of protein and probiotics. A typical cup contains around 150 calories and can promote gut health.

• Almonds add a crunchy texture while delivering vitamin E and magnesium. Just a handful provides energy and essential nutrients.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Whether you're preparing a quick snack or trying to impress guests at a gathering, this refreshing apple, pear, and grape salad will surely delight everyone. With its creamy Greek yogurt dressing and crunchy almond topping, it offers a nutritious boost and satisfies your cravings for something sweet.

The next time you need a light dish or dessert, consider this delightful fruit salad. Its fresh flavors and colorful presentation make it a winner in any recipe collection.

Try it out and experience the burst of flavors in every bite!