Dragon Fruit and Pineapple Salad
Dragon Fruit and Pineapple Salad is a tropical delight that combines the exotic flavors of dragon fruit with the sweet, tangy taste of pineapple. This salad is not only visually stunning with its vibrant colors but also bursting with fresh, fruity flavors that are perfect for a refreshing summer dish or a bright addition to any meal.
The addition of a simple lime-honey dressing enhances the natural sweetness of the fruits, making it a delightful treat that’s both healthy and delicious. Whether served as a side, dessert, or light lunch, this salad is sure to impress with its unique taste and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients:
- 1 large dragon fruit, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cubed
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
How to Make Dragon Fruit and Pineapple Salad:
Prepare the Dragon Fruit
Cut the dragon fruit in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh and cut it into bite-sized cubes. Dragon fruit has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a striking appearance with its pink or yellow skin and white or red flesh speckled with black seeds.
Prepare the Pineapple
Peel the pineapple and remove the core. Cut the pineapple into bite-sized cubes. Fresh pineapple adds a juicy and tangy sweetness to the salad that pairs beautifully with the dragon fruit.
Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, fresh lime juice, and lime zest (if using). The honey adds a touch of natural sweetness, while the lime juice provides a refreshing citrus tang that complements the tropical fruits.
Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the cubed dragon fruit and pineapple. Gently toss the fruit to mix them together evenly.
Add Mint
Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves over the fruit. Gently toss again to incorporate the mint throughout the salad. The mint adds a fresh, aromatic quality that enhances the overall flavor.
Dress the Salad
Drizzle the honey-lime dressing over the fruit and mint mixture. Toss gently to coat all the fruit with the dressing. Be careful not to over-mix to avoid bruising the delicate fruit.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish the salad with additional fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors of the salad.
Enjoy
Enjoy your Dragon Fruit and Pineapple Salad as a refreshing side dish, a healthy dessert, or a light lunch. Its tropical flavors and colorful presentation make it a versatile and delightful option for any occasion.
Chef’s Note:
Choosing Dragon Fruit:
Look for ripe dragon fruit that is slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. The skin should be vibrant in color, and the flesh should be firm. If the dragon fruit is underripe, it will be less sweet and may have a firmer texture.
Pineapple Selection:
Choose a ripe pineapple that has a sweet aroma and is slightly soft at the base. If fresh pineapple is not available, you can use canned pineapple, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
Mint Handling:
Fresh mint adds a delightful burst of flavor. If you prefer a milder mint taste, use less mint or chop it more coarsely. For a more intense flavor, increase the amount of mint.
Dressing Adjustments:
Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more honey if needed. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a bit more lime juice.
Serving Tip:
This salad is best served immediately to retain the freshness and texture of the fruit. If preparing ahead of time, store the fruit and dressing separately and combine them just before serving.
Nutritional Information
(Per 1 cup serving, based on 4 servings total):
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 10mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 31g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 1g
- Vitamin C: 90% of Daily Value
- Vitamin A: 5% of Daily Value
- Calcium: 4% of Daily Value
- Iron: 4% of Daily Value
Dragon Fruit and Pineapple Salad is a nutrient-rich option, providing a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. The natural sweetness of the fruit and the refreshing mint make it a perfect choice for a healthy and satisfying treat. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and health benefits of this delightful salad, ideal for any occasion.