Fruit Salad with Vanilla Pudding: The Ultimate No-Bake Crowd-Pleaser

Key Info:

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 15-20 minutes

Servings: 6-8

Difficulty: Beginner

Diet: Vegetarian (Vegan Option Available)

Equipment Needed:

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Colander

Ingredients:

• 2 (20-oz) cans pineapple chunks, drained
• 1 cup reserved pineapple juice
• 1 (11-oz) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 (10-oz) jar maraschino cherries, chopped
• 2 medium bananas, sliced
• 1½ cups blueberries
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced
• 1 (3.4-oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
• Optional: 1 cup chopped pecans

Pro Tip: Fruit Selection Matters

• Choose ripe, firm fruits
• Mix textures and colors for visual appeal
• Avoid overripe fruits that turn mushy quickly

Method:

1. Drain all canned fruits completely, reserving 1 cup pineapple juice.
2. Combine all prepared fruits in a large mixing bowl.
3. Critical Step: Whisk pudding mix into reserved pineapple juice until smooth.
   • Let mixture stand 1-2 minutes to slightly thicken
   • Mixture should be lump-free and glossy
4. Gently fold pudding mixture over fruits.
   • Use light folding motion to prevent fruit breakage
   • Ensure even coating
5. Add optional nuts or marshmallows if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Crucial Tips:

• Add bananas just before serving to prevent browning
• Do not overmix – preserves fruit integrity
• Best consumed within 24 hours

Storage:

• Refrigerate covered
• Consume within 2 days
• Stir before serving

Dietary Variations:

• Vegan: Use plant-based pudding mix
• Low-sugar: Select sugar-free pudding
• Gluten-free: Check pudding mix ingredients

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overmixing breaks delicate fruits
• Adding bananas too early causes browning
• Using too much pudding creates grainy texture

Flavor Twists:

• Swap vanilla pudding with chocolate
• Add Greek yogurt for tanginess
• Include tropical fruits like mango or kiwi

Nutrition Snapshot:

• High in Vitamin C
• Good fiber content
• Antioxidant-rich
• Moderate sugar levels

Perfect For:

• Summer gatherings
• Potlucks
• Kid-friendly desserts
• Quick party treats

Final Thoughts:

This fruit salad is more than a dessert – it’s a canvas for creativity. Experiment, have fun, and make it your own!