At the holiday table, vibrant colors and delightful flavors can transform any gathering, and that’s where this Festive Red & Green Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Orange Dressing comes in. Think crunchy apples paired with juicy strawberries, tart cranberries, and creamy kiwi, all unified by a warm, aromatic dressing. This easy recipe not only brightens up your seasonal feast but also offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making it a perfect centerpiece for your next brunch or festive dinner. Better yet, you can customize it to your heart’s content, swapping in your favorite fruits or adding little surprises here and there. Are you ready to make your fruit salad the star of the show? Let’s dive in!

Why is this fruit salad so special?

Vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes, creating a stunning presentation that will impress guests at any gathering. Customizable to suit your taste, you can easily swap in favorite fruits or add fun surprises like pomegranate seeds or fresh mint. Quick and easy to prepare, it requires minimal chopping and comes together in just minutes—perfect for the busy holiday season. Best of all, it’s refreshingly healthy, packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a guilt-free indulgence alongside heartier dishes. Looking for more amazing salads? Check out my Mac Pasta Salad or Summer Pasta Salad for delightful options!

Red & Green Fruit Salad Ingredients

• Fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavor!

For the Salad

Medium Red Apple – Provides sweetness and crunch; other apple varieties can be substituted according to your taste preferences.
Medium Green Apple – Adds a tart contrast to the sweetness; feel free to replace it with any tart apple of your choice.
Halved Green Grapes – Contributes juiciness and natural sweetness; red grapes can be used for a slight color variation.
Dried Cranberries – Offers a chewy texture and tartness; raisins can substitute for a different flavor balance.
Kiwi Fruit – Adds a unique sweet-tart flavor and vibrant color; fresh is preferable, but canned kiwi can also be used.
Sliced Strawberries – Enhance sweetness and visual appeal; consider swapping for raspberries or blackberries for variety.

For the Dressing

Honey – Acts as the primary sweetener in the dressing; agave syrup can be substituted as a vegan option.
Orange Juice – Provides acidity and freshness; freshly squeezed juice is best for flavor.
Poppy Seeds – Adds crunch and visual interest; optional, can be omitted if preferred.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and sweetness into the dressing; adjust according to your preference.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor complexity; can be omitted if not desired.
Ground Ginger – Adds a spicy depth; use fresh ginger for a more intense flavor—adjust quantity to taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Red & Green Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Orange Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of honey, the juice of one freshly squeezed orange, 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger. Blend until the ingredients are well combined and the dressing is smooth, then set it aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the fruit.

Step 2: Chop the Fruit
Using a sharp knife and cutting board, chop 1 medium red apple and 1 medium green apple into bite-sized pieces, discarding any seeds. Halve a cup of green grapes and slice 1 kiwi and 1 cup of strawberries. Finally, measure out ½ cup of dried cranberries. Keep the apples’ skins on for color and texture. This vibrant medley creates the foundation for your Red & Green Fruit Salad.

Step 3: Combine the Fruit
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the chopped red apple, green apple, halved grapes, dried cranberries, sliced kiwi, and strawberries. Toss the fruit together carefully, using a large spoon or spatula, to ensure an even mix while preserving the integrity of the softer fruits. The colorful accumulation of fruit will contribute to the visual appeal of your Red & Green Fruit Salad.

Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the prepared cinnamon orange dressing over the mixed fruit in the large bowl. Using a gentle folding motion, toss the fruit salad to coat the fruit uniformly with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the fruit—just enough to ensure every piece gets a delightful coating of that sweet, aromatic dressing.

Step 5: Chill or Serve Immediately
You can serve your Red & Green Fruit Salad right away or cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the salad allows it to absorb the flavors of the dressing, enhancing the overall taste. If you choose to chill it, be sure to give it a quick toss before serving to redisperse the dressing.

Make Ahead Options

These festive Red & Green Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Orange Dressing components are perfect for meal prep! You can chop the apples, grapes, and kiwi up to 24 hours in advance to save time on busy days, just be sure to store them in an airtight container with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. The dressing can also be whisked together and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped fruit in a bowl, drizzle the dressing over, and toss gently to coat the fruit evenly. This ensures your salad remains fresh and just as delicious, allowing you to impress guests with minimal effort!

Red & Green Fruit Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your fruit salad to delight your taste buds!

Citrus Boost: Add extra zest by incorporating orange segments or grapefruit for a refreshing citrus twist. The acidity brightens the flavors beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped walnuts or almonds to introduce a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruit. It can create a delightful contrast in texture.
Tropical Twist: Replace kiwi with diced pineapple or mango for a tropical flair that brings a burst of sweetness and sunshine to your salad. A little splash of lime juice can enhance those tropical vibes even more.
Herbaceous Addition: Add fresh mint leaves for an aromatic touch that elevates the entire dish. The coolness of the mint pairs wonderfully with the fruity sweetness.
Spicy Kick: For a hint of heat, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dressing, balancing the sweetness with a touch of spice. It’s an unexpected delight!
Dried Fruit Medley: Experiment with different dried fruits like apricots or figs instead of cranberries for added sweetness and chewy texture—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Maple Sweetener: Substitute honey with pure maple syrup in the dressing for a deep and rich sweetness that tastes incredible, especially during fall and winter holidays.

Feel like making a complete meal? Pair this colorful salad with delicious Cucumber Salad Sandwiches or indulge in a sweet treat like Apple Cider Cinnamon Rolls. It’s all about creating a feast that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning!

Expert Tips for Red & Green Fruit Salad

Chop Last: Chop your apples last to avoid browning; they’re prone to oxidation, and no one wants a discolored salad.
Dress Early: Prepare your dressing first and let it sit while you chop the fruits; this enhances the flavor profile of your Red & Green Fruit Salad.
Mix Gently: When combining the fruits, use a folding method instead of stirring vigorously to keep the softer fruits intact and beautiful.
Add Crunch: Enhance texture by adding nuts like pecans or walnuts, or sprinkle some shredded coconut for an unexpected twist.
Serve Fresh: While this salad can be chilled for flavor, it’s best served fresh to maintain the fruits’ vibrant colors and crispness.

What to Serve with Festive Red & Green Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Orange Dressing

Bring your gathering to life with delightful pairings that complement this seasonal salad!

Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie and cheddar enhances the sweet notes of the salad while adding creaminess that balances the fruit’s crispness.
Honey Glazed Ham: The savory and slightly sweet flavor of ham pairs beautifully with the bright fruit flavors, making each bite a delicious contrast.
Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty, fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs provides a hearty, wholesome base, soaking up the sweet dressing’s flavors.
Grilled Chicken: Simple, seasoned grilled chicken adds a protein boost, serving as a great canvas for the salad’s refreshing taste.
Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy mix of nuts and seeds not only adds crunch but also brings a wholesome touch to the meal, perfect for snacking alongside.
Sparkling Lemonade: The zesty flavor of freshly made sparkling lemonade is uplifting and refreshing, enhancing the deliciousness of the salad with every sip.
Pistachio Cake: For dessert, a light and airy pistachio cake brings a nutty sweetness that perfectly harmonizes with the fruit salad’s bright flavors.
Herbed Flatbreads: Warm, soft flatbreads sprinkled with herbs are perfect for scooping up fruit while adding a comforting element to the meal.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, will elevate your dining experience, blending seamlessly with the festive flavors of your fruit salad.
Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layered with granola and fruit creates a delightful dessert that echoes the flavors of your festive red & green fruit salad.

How to Store and Freeze Red & Green Fruit Salad

Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. If possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Prep Ahead: You can prep the fruits the night before but mix them together just before serving. This helps prevent browning and keeps the salad crisp.

Reheating: This fruit salad is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Just give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Freezer: Avoid freezing the Red & Green Fruit Salad, as the texture of fruits like apples and strawberries may become mushy once thawed.

Red & Green Fruit Salad with Cinnamon Orange Dressing Recipe FAQs

What fruits can I use for this fruit salad?
Absolutely! You can mix and match your favorite fruits. While I’ve used medium red and green apples, grapes, cranberries, kiwi, and strawberries, feel free to include seasonal options like pomegranate seeds or mandarins for added flavor and vibrancy. The more the merrier!

How should I store the leftover fruit salad?
Store your Red & Green Fruit Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it again. Before serving, give it a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the fruits the night before! Just chop them and store them in the fridge, keeping the dressing separate. When you’re ready to serve, combine the fruits and dressing to keep everything crisp and flavorful. This method helps prevent browning, especially with apples.

Is it possible to freeze the fruit salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as fruits like apples and strawberries tend to become mushy once thawed. For the best taste and texture, enjoy it fresh! If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for a short period instead.

Are there any dietary considerations to be aware of?
For those with allergies, this fruit salad is naturally gluten-free and often vegan, especially when substituting honey with agave syrup. However, always double-check specific ingredient labels if allergies are a concern. And for pet owners, avoid giving this fruit salad to dogs, particularly grapes, as they can be toxic.

How can I prevent the apples from browning too quickly?
To keep your apples looking fresh, chop them last just before assembling the salad. You can also sprinkle a little lemon juice on the chopped apples to slow down browning if you’re preparing them ahead of time. This little trick keeps the colors vibrant in your stunning Red & Green Fruit Salad!