If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful dish that’s as versatile as it is easy to make, maple pecan fruit salad is the answer! This salad is packed with crisp fruit, crunchy pecans, and a hint of sweet maple syrup. It’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday brunches to casual family dinners!
A candy cane caprese salad would go perfectly with this maple pecan fruit salad!
My family adores this maple pecan fruit salad because it’s the perfect blend of Fall flavors. The sweetness of the fruit, the crunch of the pecans, and the maple syrup make every bite so good. Plus, it’s easy to customize with whatever fruit is in season, so it never gets boring. Even the picky eaters in my house clean their plates when this salad is on the table!
I love making this recipe in the Fall, and I love making a watermelon feta salad in the summer! There's nothing better than a fresh salad on busy nights!
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How To Pick the Perfect Fruit for Salad
The secret to a great fruit salad is in choosing the freshest, ripest fruits. Here’s what I look for:
- Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries). Look for bright colors and firm textures. Don't use moldy or mushy berries or they will fall apart in your salad.
- Grapes. Choose seedless grapes that are firm and round.
- Citrus (oranges, mandarins). Pick fruits that feel heavy for their size, as they’ll be juicier.
- Pineapple. It should have a sweet smell at the base and give slightly when pressed. I like to take a piece of the top of the crown of the pineapple and if it comes out easily, the pineapple is ripe enough. If you aren't aware how to cut a pineapple, I have a whole blog post explaining step by step instructions.
- Apples or pears. Go for crisp, firm varieties that won’t brown too quickly. If you like a tart apple, go for Granny Smith. I like a Fuji or Gala apple to make into salads but also as a snack.
Ingredients to Make Maple Pecan Fruit Salad
- Apples. Use sweet apples like Gala apples or Fuji apples.
- Pomegranate seeds. In the grocery store, you can often find a container of pomegranate seeds so you don't have to fight to open a pomegranate.
- Grapes. Green grapes have a little bit of a zing to them so they add a nice crunch and tang to the salad.
- Pecans. For some extra crunch.
- Maple syrup. Use a good quality maple syrup. Being in New England we always have some maple syrup from a local sugar shack. It's the best!
Be sure to check out the printable recipe card for full recipe information on ingredients and quantities.
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or skip nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
- Change up the fruit! Use mangoes, kiwi, or seasonal favorites like peaches or mandarin oranges.
- Add a dash of orange juice or use honey instead of maple syrup for a different twist.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut, chia seeds, or granola for added texture.
How To Make a Maple Pecan Fruit Salad
- Step 1: Wash the apples and dice the apples into small pieces, removing the seeds and stem.
- Step 2: Cut the grapes in half and add them to the bowl with the apple pieces.
- Step 3: Add the chopped pecans to the bowl. If you've got extra pecans, make a pecan pie dip!
- Step 4: Sprinkle in the pomegranate seeds.
- Step 5: Add the maple syrup to the bowl.
- Step 6: Mix well. Serve immediately or let the fruit salad chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Lynn's Tip!
For a little extra flavor, toast the pecans right before adding them to salad.
Tips and Tricks
- Make sure to watch all the fruit well before adding them to the fruit salad.
- After washing the fruit, dry it thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. You don't want any excess moisture as that will water down the fruit salad.
- Try to cut the fruit into equal sizes so all the pieces are bite sized and uniform. This will help make the fruit salad easier to eat.
Storage Instructions
Making a maple pecan fruit salad ahead of time is super easy and perfect for when you want to save time! Start by washing and chopping all your fruit, but keep each type in separate airtight containers in the fridge so the juices don’t mix and make things soggy.
When you’re ready to serve, toss everything together, add the pecans on top, and drizzle with the dressing. This way, the fruit stays fresh, the pecans stay crispy, and the salad tastes like you just made it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but frozen fruit can release excess moisture as it thaws. You'll get the best texture and flavor if you use fresh fruit.
Toss diced apples in a little lemon juice or pineapple juice to keep them looking fresh.
Serve it chilled for the best flavor and texture. It pairs wonderfully with yogurt, waffles, or simply as a standalone dish.
Maple Pecan Fruit Salad
Equipment
- Knives
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
- 2 Apples Washed and Diced
- 1 cup Pomegranate Seeds
- 1 cup Grapes Washed, cut in half
- ½ cup Pecans Chopped
- 2 tablespoon Maple Syrup
Instructions
- Wash all the fruit and cut the fruit into small, bite sized pieces.
- Mix the apples, pomegranate seeds, grapes, and pecans in a bowl. Drizzle with maple syrup and toss to coat. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for two hours before serving.
Notes
- You can easily double to triple this recipe to feed a crowd or to meal prep.
- Fuji or Gala apples are great for this recipe since they are so sweet. If you prefer a more tart apple, use a Granny Smith apple.
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