Macedonia

Fruit Salad - A Burst of Vitamins and Freshness in Every Bite

When we think of a healthy breakfast or a refreshing dessert, fruit salad is the perfect choice. This delicious combination of vitamin-packed fruits not only delights our taste buds but also provides an energy boost for the entire day. I invite you to discover this simple and quick recipe that will turn any meal into a colorful and flavorful feast.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4-5 kiwis
- 1 large orange
- 1 large apple
- a few slices of canned pineapple
- canned peaches
- 200 ml whipped cream (ideally, freshly whipped)
- 4-6 ladyfingers
- 2-3 tablespoons Nesquik cocoa
- a few drops of rum essence

Recipe history: Fruit salad has deep roots in culinary tradition, with origins that date back to ancient times. This fruit salad is a symbol of freshness and diversity, representing a clever way to use seasonal or canned fruits, adapting to the tastes of each generation. It’s a recipe that reminds us of the joy of sharing pleasant moments with loved ones, whether it’s a weekend brunch or a garden party.

Step-by-step preparation of the fruit salad:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing and peeling the fruits. Peel the kiwis and cut them into small cubes. Peel the orange and cut it into slices or pieces, while the apple is cored and diced. Drain the canned pineapple and peaches well, cutting them if necessary.

2. Mixing the fruits: In a large bowl, add all the chopped fruits: kiwi, orange, apple, pineapple, and peaches. Gently mix with a spatula to avoid crushing the fruits, ensuring they retain their crisp texture.

3. Adding flavors: Pour the juice from the pineapple and peaches over the fruit mixture. Add a few drops of rum essence for an extra flavor boost. Mix again, making sure all the fruits are well coated with the flavored juice.

4. Assembling the dessert: Prepare the serving cups. Take two ladyfingers and cut them in half. Place the halves at the bottom of each cup, then add the fruit mixture on top.

5. Finishing with whipped cream: Whip the cream until it becomes firm, then add a few tablespoons over the fruits in each cup. Sprinkle a dusting of Nesquik cocoa on top for a contrasting flavor and an appealing look.

6. Serving: Place the fruit salad cups in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to chill slightly or serve immediately at room temperature. This fruit salad can be accompanied by a glass of fresh orange juice or a green smoothie for a complete breakfast.

Helpful tips:
- Choose fresh seasonal fruits for added flavor. Depending on the time of year, you can include strawberries, raspberries, or mango.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of juice added or omit the rum essence.
- For a crunchy note, add some chopped nuts or almonds on top.

Nutritional benefits: Fruit salad is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Kiwi is rich in vitamin C, orange helps strengthen the immune system, and apple provides essential fiber for digestion. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion, while peaches are packed with vitamin A, beneficial for vision and skin.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen fruits? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and drain them well before use.
2. How can I make the recipe healthier? You can replace the whipped cream with Greek yogurt or an avocado topping for a more nutritious option.
3. Can I add other ingredients? Absolutely! Add chia seeds or quinoa to boost the protein content.

Possible variations:
- Turn this fruit salad into a delicious smoothie: blend all the ingredients with a little milk or yogurt to create a refreshing drink.
- You can prepare a tropical version by adding fruits like mango, papaya, or shredded coconut.

Regardless of the occasion, fruit salad is an excellent choice, full of color and flavor, perfect for bringing a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy every bite and savor all the benefits these fruits have to offer!