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Light & Creamy Fall Fruit Salad with Honey Yogurt Dressing

fall fruit salad with honey yogurt dressing - featured image

A quick and easy fall fruit salad with a creamy honey yogurt dressing. Perfect for a light dessert, breakfast, or side dish, this recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together in about 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium ripe pears (Bosc or Anjou), cored and diced
  • 2 medium Honeycrisp apples (or Fuji), cored and diced
  • 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, toasted)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
  • 3 tablespoons honey (mild, floral like clover or orange blossom)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prep the fruit: Wash all fruit thoroughly. Core apples and pears (leave skin on) and dice into 1/2-inch cubes. Halve grapes. Place in a large bowl, sprinkle with lemon juice, and toss gently.
  2. Toast the pecans (optional): Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add chopped pecans and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from pan and let cool.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust honey or lemon to taste.
  4. Combine and chill: Pour dressing over fruit. Fold gently with a rubber spatula until all fruit is coated. Add toasted pecans and dried cranberries, fold once more. Transfer to a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
  5. Serve: Give the salad a gentle stir before serving. Spoon into bowls and enjoy cold or at room temperature. Garnish with extra cinnamon and pecans if desired.

Notes

For best texture, keep dressing separate if making ahead and toss just before serving. Choose ripe but firm pears to avoid mushiness. Toast pecans carefully as they burn quickly. The salad benefits from resting 30 minutes in the fridge for flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: fall fruit salad, honey yogurt dressing, creamy fruit salad, easy fruit salad, healthy dessert, gluten-free, vegetarian