Quick fruit salad

Quick Fruit Salad: An Explosion of Freshness and Flavor

Who doesn't love a fresh fruit salad, full of color and taste? This quick fruit salad is perfect for hot summer days when the desire to enjoy a refreshing dessert becomes stronger. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll indulge your taste buds and bring a touch of joy to every day. Preparing this recipe takes no more than 15 minutes, and the result is a delicacy that will impress any guest.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 3 ripe apricots
- 2 slices of cantaloupe
- 1 vanilla ice cream (or cocoa, for a more intense chocolate note)
- Whipped cream from a can (I recommend Pilos, which contains 82% cream, for a creamy texture and delicious taste)

The history of fruit salad is a fascinating one, being a beloved dish around the world. From festive meals to relaxing picnics, fruit salad has evolved over time, adapting to local tastes and available ingredients. This simple recipe revives the tradition of combining fresh fruits in an innovative and delicious way.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the apricots: Start by washing the apricots well under cold water. Ensure they are ripe but firm, to achieve a sweet taste and pleasant texture. Remove the pits from the 3 apricots. Cut two of them into small cubes, while slicing the third for decoration.

2. Preparing the cantaloupe: Choose a well-ripened cantaloupe with a sweet aroma. Remove the rind and cut the flesh into cubes. Make sure the cantaloupe is fresh and juicy, as it will contribute to the freshness of the salad.

3. Assembling the salad: Start assembling the salad in cups or clear bowls. Layer alternating cubes of apricot and cantaloupe, followed by a layer of vanilla ice cream. Continue alternating layers until the cups are full, making sure to leave a little space for decoration.

4. Final decorations: Use the whipped cream from the can to add a generous layer of whipped cream on top. This will not only add a delicious taste but also provide an attractive appearance. Position the apricot slices on top for an elegant finish.

5. Serving: The fruit salad is served immediately to maintain the crisp texture of the fruits. It is perfect as a dessert but can also be a refreshing appetizer.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches, mangoes, or strawberries, to diversify the recipe.
- If you prefer a tangier taste, add a splash of lemon juice over the fruits before assembling.
- If you don't have vanilla ice cream, you can use sweetened Greek yogurt for a healthier option that maintains creaminess.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of ice cream? Yes, you can use any preferred flavor, but vanilla or cocoa ice cream provides a pleasant contrast with the fruits.
- Can I make the salad a day in advance? It is recommended to prepare it just before serving to avoid the fruits becoming mushy or losing freshness.

Nutritional benefits:
This fruit salad is an excellent choice, being rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Apricots are attributed with numerous health benefits, such as improving skin health and supporting the immune system. Cantaloupe is high in water content and low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Estimated calories per serving: 250 kcal

Serving suggestions:
This quick fruit salad pairs perfectly with a glass of mineral water or a fresh fruit smoothie. You can also add a few fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of flavor and an attractive appearance.

Possible variations:
- Replace the ice cream with a fruit sorbet for a vegan option.
- Add chia seeds or crushed nuts for an extra crunch and nutrients.

I wish you happy cooking and enjoy this quick fruit salad, full of flavor and color! It is a dessert that not only refreshes but also sweetens any moment of the day. Enjoy!