Jana's Corner & One and Done Recipes

This is a super simple fruit salad that everyone seems to love. I snagged this from my work bestie Susan at a BBQ and have been making it every spring/summer.

Ingredients

• 2 quarts fresh strawberries, hulled and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pint fresh blueberries, rinsed
• 1 apple (preferably green), cored and cut into chunks
• 2 lemons, juiced (about 4-5 tablespoons)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced into thin ribbons
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds** (optional, for added crunch)
• 1 kiwi** (optional, peeled and sliced, for added color and flavor)
• 1/2 cup seedless grapes (optional, halved)

Instructions

• 1. Prepare the Strawberries
  • Hull and cut the strawberries into bite-sized pieces, making them small enough to fit on a spoon.
• 2. Prepare the Apple
  • Core and cut the apple into chunks. To prevent browning, you can toss the apple chunks in a small amount of lemon juice before adding them to the salad.
• 3. Prepare the Basil
  • Stack the basil leaves, roll them up tightly, and slice into thin ribbons.
• 4. Combine the Fruit
  • In a large bowl, combine the strawberries, blueberries, apple chunks, and any additional fruits you choose to include.
• 5. Add the Lemon Juice
  • Squeeze the juice from the lemons over the fruit mixture.
  • Toss gently to coat the fruit evenly with the lemon juice. This will help preserve the fruit and add a fresh citrus flavor.
• 6. Add the Basil
  • Sprinkle the basil ribbons over the fruit salad and gently stir to distribute them evenly.
• 7. Optional Additions
  • If desired, drizzle the honey over the salad for extra sweetness and sprinkle the sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.
• 8. Chill and Serve
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate the fruit salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This salad can stay fresh in your refrigerator for up to a week, thanks to the lemon juice.

Tips

• Mix and Match Fruits: Feel free to add or substitute fruits based on what’s in season or your personal preference. Mango, pineapple, or peaches could be delicious additions.
• Herb Variations: Mint can be used instead of basil for a different, equally refreshing flavor.
• Enjoy this refreshing fruit salad at your next gathering or as a healthy snack throughout the week!