When fall rolls around, there’s nothing better than a fresh, colorful salad that celebrates the best fruits of the season. This Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad is bursting with crisp apples, juicy pears, sweet grapes, and ruby-red pomegranate arils—all tossed in a light maple-lemon glaze and topped with crunchy toasted nuts. It’s sweet, tangy, and perfectly refreshing—a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that’s just as good for holidays as it is for everyday snacking.
Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Apples (cored and chopped) | 2 |
| Pears (cored and chopped) | 2 |
| Seedless Red Grapes (halved) | 1 cup |
| Pomegranate Arils | 1 cup |
| Dried Cranberries | 1/2 cup |
| Pecans or Walnuts (toasted) | 1/2 cup |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Maple Syrup or Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground Cinnamon (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
Optional Add-Ins:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sliced Persimmons | 1 cup |
| Shredded Coconut | 1/2 cup |
| Cubed Sharp Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup |
How To Make Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad:
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit: Core and chop the apples and pears, then place them in a large mixing bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and toss gently to prevent browning. Add grapes, pomegranate arils, and dried cranberries to the bowl.
Step 2: Toast the Nuts: Heat a small dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pecans or walnuts and toast them for about 2–3 minutes, stirring often until fragrant and slightly golden. Set them aside to cool.
Step 3: Sweeten and Season: Drizzle the maple syrup or honey over the fruit and, if you’d like, sprinkle with cinnamon for a warm fall flavor. Add any optional mix-ins such as persimmons, coconut, or cheddar cheese. Toss everything lightly to coat the fruit evenly.
Step 4: Add Nuts and Serve: Just before serving, add the toasted nuts and toss once more. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing and colorful treat.
Optional Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of fresh mint for brightness or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth. For a creamy twist, top with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or whipped cream before serving.
