Creamy Tropical Vanilla Fruit Salad for Large Gatherings
Vanilla Fruit Salad for Sixty Plus
Description: This delightful fruit salad is perfect for large gatherings, combining a medley of tropical fruits with a creamy vanilla dressing that enhances the natural sweetness of each ingredient. Prepare this refreshing dish the night before to allow it to chill thoroughly, ensuring a delightful, cool treat for your guests. The “cooking” time indicated is actually the chilling time required for the salad to reach its best flavor and texture.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pineapple chunks | 5 cans (15 oz each) |
| Vanilla instant pudding mix | 1 package (3.4 oz) |
| Mandarin oranges | 4 cans (11 oz each) |
| Red apples | 8, diced |
| Pineapple juice | from the drained cans |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 102.3 |
| Total Fat | 0.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 132.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 26 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g |
| Sugars | 23.2 g |
| Protein | 0.7 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Pineapple: Begin by draining the pineapple chunks and reserving the juice for later use.
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Mix the Pudding: In a large mixing bowl, pour the vanilla instant pudding mix. Measure the reserved pineapple juice and add enough water to make a total of 6 cups of liquid. Gradually stir this mixture into the pudding mix, whisking until it thickens, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes.
-
Combine the Ingredients: Once the pudding mixture has thickened, gently fold in the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and diced red apples, ensuring all the fruit is evenly coated with the creamy pudding.
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Portion the Salad: Lightly spray four 13 x 9 inch baking pans with nonstick cooking spray. Divide the fruit salad mixture evenly among the pans, as each should hold approximately 8 cups of salad.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the pans with plastic wrap and refrigerate the fruit salad for at least 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the salad to chill completely before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing vanilla fruit salad at potlucks, picnics, or any gathering where a large crowd is expected. It’s a healthy, easy-to-make dessert that everyone will enjoy!
