Fresh, vibrant, and creamy, this German Fruit Salad is a refreshing take on classic fruit salads. It’s not just a bowl of mixed fruit—it’s a perfect balance of sweet, citrusy, and nutty flavors with a creamy, tangy dressing that makes every bite irresistible.
This European-style fruit salad combines honeydew melon, oranges, juicy blue grapes, and crunchy walnuts over crisp lettuce leaves, all tied together with a unique yogurt-based dressing.
The dressing, with a touch of lemon, orange juice, and even a hint of ketchup, creates a tangy-sweet contrast that’s surprisingly delicious. The result? A light yet satisfying dish that works as a side, a brunch addition, or even a light dessert.
For a full meal, serve it alongside pancakes for a sweet breakfast pairing, or try it with another Sugar Cookie Cold Foam variation to explore different flavors.
Why You Will Be Cooked?
- A refreshing twist on fruit salad – creamy, citrusy, and slightly nutty.
- No added sugar – natural sweetness from fruit, with a light yogurt dressing.
- Unexpected but delicious flavors – the dressing adds a European-style tang.
- Quick and easy to prepare – just chop, mix, and enjoy!
German Fruit Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Melon baller – For scooping melon.
- Sharp knife – For peeling and slicing oranges.
- Cutting board – For prepping ingredients.
- Mixing bowl – For making the dressing.
- Glass bowl – For serving the salad.
Ingredients
- 1 small melon preferably honeydew
- 2 oranges
- 1 cup blue grapes
- 4 lettuce leaves
- 12 walnut halves
- Dressing
- 8 ounces plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 tablespoon catsup
- 2 tablespoons evaporated milk
- salt
- white pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the fruits: Scoop melon into balls, peel and slice oranges, and halve the grapes, removing seeds if necessary.
- Layer the salad: Line a glass bowl with lettuce leaves and arrange melon, oranges, grapes, and walnuts in layers.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, orange juice, catsup, evaporated milk, salt, and white pepper.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Marinate: Pour the dressing over the salad and let it marinate for 30 minutes.
- Toss and serve: Gently toss the salad just before serving to mix the flavors.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 155kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 60g |
| Sugar | 17g |
| Sodium | 86mg |
Expert Tips for a Perfect Fruit & Walnut Salad!
- Balance the Sweetness – If your melon is extra sweet, add a tiny splash of white wine vinegar or an extra squeeze of lemon juice to the dressing for contrast.
- Enhance the Nuts – Lightly toast the walnuts in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes to bring out their natural oils and intensify their nutty flavor.
- Dressing Consistency Matters – If you prefer a thicker dressing, use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt. If it’s too thick, a splash of fresh orange juice will loosen it up.
- Marination is Key – The 30-minute marination isn’t just for soaking in flavors—it also slightly softens the fruit, making it more cohesive. However, don’t let it sit for too long, or the lettuce may wilt.
- A Hint of Spice – A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika in the dressing can add a subtle depth without overpowering the fruity flavors.
- Serving Temperature – This salad tastes best slightly chilled but not too cold. Take it out of the fridge for 5-10 minutes before serving for the flavors to fully bloom.
Joe Miller is the passionate founder of Food Landscape Insight, where he shares his love for cooking and culinary experiences. Growing up in a family-run diner, Joe was immersed in the vibrant world of food from an early age. The kitchen became his canvas, and food, his way of storytelling.
Through years of experimentation and learning, Joe honed his skills and started his blog to inspire others to embrace the joy of cooking. Each recipe he shares is a blend of tradition, creativity, and the heartfelt memories that food brings to life, all with the aim of fostering a deeper connection to food.
