Creamy Fruit Salad with Poppy Seeds: Easy, Refreshing & Ready in 15 Minutes
If you're looking for a light, refreshing dish that’s quick to prepare and crowd-pleasing, this Creamy Fruit Salad with Poppy Seeds is a must-try. It’s the perfect balance of juicy fruit, creamy yogurt, and just a hint of crunch from the poppy seeds. Whether you're planning brunch, a picnic, or a simple healthy dessert, this recipe comes together in under 15 minutes and never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy — ready in under 15 minutes
- No cooking required
- Great for kids, adults, and anyone in between
- Customizable with your favorite fruits
- Ideal for brunches, parties, or a healthy dessert
Ingredients
Fresh Fruits
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup green grapes, halved
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 banana, sliced
- 1 apple, diced
- 1 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained
- ½ cup pineapple chunks
For the Dressing
- 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: Wash and dry all fresh fruits. Slice strawberries, halve the grapes, dice the apple, and slice the banana. Drain the mandarin oranges and pineapple chunks.
- Make the Dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, and poppy seeds until smooth.
- Combine: In a large bowl, add all the chopped fruits. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Chill (Optional): For best flavor and texture, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Serve it as a side dish, snack, or light dessert. It’s best enjoyed fresh and cool.
Tips for Success
- Toss sliced apples and bananas in a bit of lemon juice separately before mixing to prevent browning.
- Use chilled fruit for an even more refreshing experience.
- Swap yogurt with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt for a vegan version.
- Add nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, store the fruit and dressing separately and combine just before serving.
How long will it last in the fridge?
This salad is best eaten within 24–48 hours. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I use frozen fruit?
Fresh fruit is ideal for texture, but if using frozen, be sure to fully thaw and drain to avoid excess moisture.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely. The natural sweetness of the fruit and the creamy dressing make it a favorite among children.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 28g
- Fat: 2g
When to Serve It
- Brunch with friends or family
- Light lunch side
- Baby showers or bridal showers
- Potlucks and picnics
- Healthy after-dinner dessert