Nana’s Frozen Fruit Salad is a dish that brings back memories of family get-togethers and makes you feel cozy. This salad became popular during a time when frozen fruit desserts were very trendy. It was served on tables in the summer or as a dessert during holiday meals. Its delightful mix of sweet and creamy textures, along with the satisfying crunch of nuts, makes it a long-lasting favorite. This recipe is easy to make and can be adapted in many ways, which is why it has become a popular choice for gatherings like potlucks and picnics over the years. You may want to make this frozen dessert not just because it’s tasty, but also to reminisce about the past with your friends and family at your dining table.
Nana’s Frozen Fruit Salad goes well with many different side dishes. For a brunch, consider serving it with a tasty quiche or delicious pastries. If you’re bringing food to a picnic, sandwiches or grilled meats go great with fruity flavors. For dessert, you can choose between warm, just baked cookies or a spoonful of whipped cream on top of the frozen salad to make it even more delicious.
Nana’s Cold Fruit Salad
Number of portions: 12-15 portions
List of items needed to make a dish.
– 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, at room temperature
– 1 cup of heavy cream, beaten until slightly thick.
– 3/4 cup of sugar
– 1 can of crushed pineapple (20 ounces), well drained
– 1 (10-ounce) bag of frozen strawberries or raspberries, partially defrosted and cut into pieces
– 1 can of mandarin oranges (11 ounces), without the liquid
– 1/2 cup of chopped pecans
– 1/3 cup of cherries cut in half
– 2 bananas that are ready to eat, cut into pieces.
– Juice from 1 lemon
Instructions
In a big bowl, mix the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Carefully mix the whipped cream until it is fully incorporated.
3. Mix the drained crushed pineapple, chopped strawberries, and mandarin oranges with the creamy mixture. Mix the fruits well.
Add the chopped pecans and halved maraschino cherries to the mixture, making sure they are evenly spread throughout.
In a little bowl, mix the banana slices with lemon juice to stop them from turning brown. Next, carefully mix the bananas into the salad.
Spread the fruit salad evenly in a baking dish that measures 9 by 13 inches. Place a cover on top and put it in the freezer for at least 4 hours, or until it becomes solid.
To serve, take it out of the freezer and leave it at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Cut the food into square pieces and savor it.
Different Types and Advice
For a healthier option, you can replace the cream cheese with a low-fat or Neufchâtel cheese, and use a light whipped topping instead of heavy cream. To make the pecans taste better, toast them first. This recipe can be easily adjusted – you can use different fruits based on what’s in season or your taste. Peaches, mangoes, or a combination of different berries can make delicious options. If you want to enhance the taste, you can add a bit of rum or orange liqueur for a more refined flavor.
Don’t forget to gently dry canned or frozen fruits before adding them to the salad to keep its creamy texture. For an extra nice detail, place each piece on a plate lined with lettuce for a fresh and crunchy look.