When the holiday table is full of warm, hearty dishes, sometimes what you need is a bright, refreshing side to balance it all out. This Fall Fruit Salad is the perfect answer—colorful, crisp, and lightly sweet with just the right touch of spice. It’s like autumn in a bowl, filled with seasonal fruits that bring out all the cozy, nostalgic vibes of Thanksgiving dinner.
Best part? It’s easy, quick, and requires no cooking at all—just chopping, tossing, and enjoying. Even beginner cooks can make this festive dish in minutes.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Side Dish / Salad |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 0 minutes |
| Servings | 6–8 servings |
| Calories | ~160 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 medium apples (honeycrisp or gala), diced
- 2 medium pears, diced
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup green seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup fresh pomegranate seeds
- 1 orange, peeled and segmented
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For the dressing:
- ¼ cup orange juice (fresh squeezed if possible)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the fruit
Wash and chop all the apples, pears, and grapes. Peel and segment the orange, removing any seeds. - Mix the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. - Combine the salad
In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped fruit, pomegranate seeds, and dried cranberries. Pour the dressing over the fruit and gently toss to coat. - Top and serve
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top just before serving for extra crunch.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Prevent browning: Toss apples and pears in a little lemon juice before mixing to keep them fresh-looking.
- Make-ahead: You can prep the fruit a few hours early but add the dressing and nuts just before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The fruit may soften but still tastes great.
Recipe Variations
- Nut-free: Skip the pecans/walnuts and use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead.
- Extra cozy: Add thinly sliced fresh figs or persimmons for a richer fall vibe.
- Citrus twist: Swap the orange with mandarin segments or blood oranges for color and tang.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a refreshing side with turkey, stuffing, and gravy to balance out the richness.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt for a lighter dessert option.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and brightness.
Conclusion
This Fall Fruit Salad for Thanksgiving is everything you want in a holiday side: festive, fresh, and full of autumn flavor. It’s simple enough to make last minute yet special enough to shine on your Thanksgiving table. Gather your favorite fall fruits, toss them with a cozy spiced dressing, and enjoy the burst of seasonal goodness with family and friends.