Orange Cream Fruit Salad

The Orange Cream Fruit Salad is a delightful addition to any gathering, perfect for sunny summer BBQs, community celebrations, or even as a sweet treat during the winter months. This refreshing salad combines fruity freshness with sweetness and tartness, creating a vibrant dish that’s sure to be a hit with friends and family. With its simple recipe and customizable variations, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 packet Instant Vanilla Pudding
• 1 1/3 cup cold milk
• 1/3 cup concentrated Orange Juice
• 1 cup Cool Whip or Cool Whipping Cream
• 1 cup Mandarin Orange, cubed
• 1 1/3 cup crushed Pineapple
• 1 1/3 cup sliced Peaches
• 2 firm Bananas, sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped Apple

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine milk, orange juice, and instant vanilla pudding. If the mixture is too thick, gradually add 1/3 cup milk.
2. Add mandarin oranges, crushed pineapple, sliced peaches, and chopped apple to the pudding mix. Fold gently until the fruits are coated in the pudding mixture.
3. Add the Cool Whip and gently fold until well combined.
4. Refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
5. Before serving, fold in the banana slices to avoid a mushy texture.
6. Refrigerate for an additional 1 hour.
7. Serve cold and enjoy!

Variations and Substitutions:

• Nuts: Add sliced almonds, cashews, or pistachios for a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
• Berries: Incorporate strawberries or blueberries for extra tartness and sweetness.
• Kiwi: Add kiwi for color and crunchiness.
• Creaminess: Consider adding sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess when folding in the Cool Whip.

Tips for Making Perfect Orange Cream Salad:

• Add soft fruits like bananas and strawberries just before serving to avoid them becoming mushy.
• Ensure that the milk is cold while mixing with the vanilla pudding to maintain the desired consistency.
• If the salad is too tart, add a dollop of Cool Whip or a tablespoon of condensed milk to sweeten it without compromising the creaminess.

Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of this Orange Cream Fruit Salad, and make it your own with personalized variations and tips.