Fruit salad is a light salad that consists of different kinds of fruits, mixed together either in their juices or in some syrup. Fruit salad, also known as Macedonia, may be served as a side salad, an appetizer, or even as a dessert. Fruits salad recipes are often served in cups in many American public schools. Fruit salad is sometimes known as fruit cocktail or compote.
History of Fruit Salad
According to the historians, fruit salad recipes, just like other salads, were hugely popular amongst the ancient Greeks and Romans. With the progress of time, the salads become more complex and now we have fruit salads in various forms. One of the oldest fruit salad is compote, which originated in England in the 17th century.
Ingredients Used and Popular Methods of Preparation of Fruit Salad
A traditional fruit salad is prepared with ingredients like fresh seasonal fruits, which have been diced or sliced and mixed together. However, people always like to experiment with versatile preparations such as fruit salads and so, these days, salad dressings and salad toppings are very common. Salad is often dressed with mayonnaise, yogurt, jam, mustard sauce, fruit syrup or sour cream. The toppings can range from shredded cheese to whipped cream to ice-cream. They are often also prepared by mixing imported canned fruits, dry fruits and nuts.
Serving and Eating Fruit Salad
While the most common dressing used on fruit salad is mayonnaise; sour cream, mustard sauce or yoghurt can also be also be used in place of it. Fruit salads can be served chilled with syrup, whipped cream or ice cream topping. Often salt and pepper is sprinkled on fruit salads for a spicy kick.
Popular Fruit Salad Variations
Waldorf fruit salad is the most common variation of fruit salad in which fruits are mixed in a mayonnaise-based sauce.The other popular variations are yogurt mixed salad, buko fruit salad, Mediterranean mezze salad and Rojak or Malaysian fruit salad prepared with shrimp and peanut sauce.
Health and Nutrition Facts of Fruit Salad
Since, fruit salad recipes contain a variety of fruits and nuts; they are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, proteins, minerals and fibers, all of which contribute to good health.
Fruit Salad:Trivia
Fruit salads are one of the most preferred accompaniments to wine.
