Colorful Fruit Salad with Vanilla Sauce

This delightful fruit salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of strawberries, bananas, kiwis, and apples creates a burst of colors and flavors that is sure to please any palate. Complemented by a rich and creamy vanilla sauce, this dish offers a perfect balance of sweetness and freshness. It is easy to prepare and can be a delightful addition to a brunch, dessert spread, or as a healthy snack. The vanilla sauce is homemade, enhancing the overall taste and giving a personal touch to the dessert. With simple ingredients, this dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins and essential nutrients. The vanilla sauce adds a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the fruit, making each bite a delicious experience. Whether you are serving this at a family gathering or a casual get-together, it is sure to be a hit. The recipe also offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust the fruits and sauce to suit individual tastes or dietary requirements.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Strawberry jam
• Bananas
• Kiwis
• Apples

For the Vanilla Sauce

• Egg yolk
• Milk
• Sugar

Preparation Time

• Total: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Vanilla Sauce: Start by whisking the egg yolk with sugar until smooth and well combined.
2. Gradually add milk to the egg and sugar mixture, stirring continuously to ensure everything blends perfectly.
3. Heat a pot of water until it simmers gently, and place a heatproof bowl containing the prepared mixture on top.
4. Use the double boiler method by slowly cooking the vanilla mixture over the simmering water. Stir constantly to avoid curdling.
5. Continue heating until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. This should take around 10 to 15 minutes.
6. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool at room temperature before chilling in the refrigerator.
7. Assemble the Salad: In a dessert bowl, begin by adding a layer of strawberry jam to form the base.
8. Peel and slice bananas into rounds of even thickness. Arrange a layer of banana slices over the strawberry jam.
9. Peel and slice the kiwis evenly, and layer them over the bananas in the bowl.
10. Wash, core, and slice apples into thin wedges or cubes, then add them on top of the kiwi slices.
11. Add another layer of strawberry jam if desired to enhance the sweetness and flavor.
12. Once the vanilla sauce has cooled, pour it generously over the layered fruits.
13. Ensure that the sauce evenly coats all the layers of the fruit for maximum flavor.
14. Allow the salad to set in the refrigerator for at least 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
15. This chilling time enhances the flavors as the fruits absorb some vanilla essence.
16. Serve the fruit salad chilled, and add additional vanilla sauce if preferred.
17. Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flair.
18. Enjoy this colorful and tasty dessert with family and friends.
19. Storage: Store any leftover fruit salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
20. Cleaning Tip: Ensure all fruit cuttings and peels are disposed of properly for a neat kitchen space.

Tips

• Ripeness: Use ripe bananas and kiwis for the best flavor and texture.
• Chill Time: Ensure the vanilla sauce is fully chilled to enhance the taste of the final dish.
• Substitutions: Honey or maple syrup can be used instead of sugar for a healthier option.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 180 per serving
• Protein: 3g
• Fats: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 25g

Variations

• Substitute strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different berry flavor.
• Use almond or coconut milk in place of regular milk for a dairy-free alternative.
• Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert.
• Pair with a glass of chilled sparkling water for a refreshing finish.
• Add a sprinkle of granola for breakfast or brunch serving.

Best Places

• The Breakfast Club - A cozy spot known for their variety of fruit salads and unique twists on classic breakfast items. Location: 33 D'Arblay St, Soho, London, UK.
• Café de Flore - Offers an elegant atmosphere with classic Parisian fruit desserts. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
• Bill's Sydney Food Shop - Famous for fresh fruit salad with a variety of toppings, set in a vibrant locale. Location: 433 Liverpool St, Darlinghurst, Sydney, Australia.
• Tartine Manufactory - Enjoy artisanal bread and delicious seasonal fruit dishes in this delightful cafe setting. Location: 595 Alabama St, San Francisco, USA.
• The Butcher's Daughter - A chic vegetarian cafe & juice bar with fresh and delicious fruit-based offerings. Location: 19 Kenmare St, New York, USA.
• Anastasia - A bright restaurant offering healthy, gourmet dining with fresh fruit and veg-forward dishes. Location: 2 Rue de la Michodière, Paris, France.
• Ceres - Offers healthy meals with some of the freshest fruit salads available. Location: 109 Mary St, Brisbane, Australia.
• Dove's Luncheonette - Known for its Mexican-inspired cuisine with fresh and flavorful fruit toppings. Location: 1545 N Damen Ave, Chicago, USA.
• White Mulberries - A popular London Cafe specializing in quality coffee and delicious fruit and breakfast dishes. Location: St Katharine Docks, 2 Commodity Quay, London, UK.
• Fred 62 - A retro-chic diner offering eclectic fruit-rich meal options. Location: 1850 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, USA.