Clementine & Mint Fruit Salad
This Clementine & Mint Fruit Salad is a vibrant, naturally sweet, and incredibly refreshing dessert or snack, combining juicy clementine segments with a medley of berries and the bright aroma of fresh mint and lime. It's a perfect light treat for any time of day.
For 2 servings
Prepare the Clementines: Carefully peel the clementines, separating them into individual segments. If desired, remove any white pith or seeds for a cleaner presentation. Place the segments into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Add Berries: Gently add the mixed berries to the bowl with the clementine segments. If using frozen berries, ensure they are thawed and drained of any excess liquid to prevent watering down the salad.
Chop Mint: Wash the fresh mint leaves thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Stack the leaves, roll them tightly, and finely chop them (chiffonade) to release their aromatic oils.
Dress the Salad: Sprinkle the finely chopped fresh mint over the fruit in the bowl. Drizzle the fresh lime juice evenly over the fruit. Add a tiny pinch of sea salt to enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Gently Combine: Using a rubber spatula or your hands, gently toss the fruit salad to ensure the mint, lime juice, and salt are evenly distributed without crushing the delicate fruit.
Chill and Serve: For optimal refreshment, cover the bowl and refrigerate the fruit salad for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. Serve chilled as a light dessert, breakfast component, or a healthy snack.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Optimal Ripeness: Choose clementines that feel heavy for their size and have a bright, unblemished peel. For berries, look for plump, firm, and vibrantly colored fruit.
- 2Mint Preparation: For maximum flavor, chop the mint just before adding it to the salad. You can also gently muddle a few mint leaves in the bottom of the serving bowl before adding the fruit for an intensified minty aroma.
- 3Serving Temperature: This salad is best served chilled. Prepare it slightly in advance and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and for a more refreshing experience.
- 4Preventing Wateriness: If using frozen berries, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the salad to prevent it from becoming watery.
Adapt it for your goals.
Tropical Twist
Add diced mango, kiwi, or pineapple for a more tropical flavor profile. A sprinkle of shredded coconut would also be delicious.
Herbaceous UpgradeHerbaceous Upgrade
Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or tarragon for a sophisticated, unexpected twist on the classic fruit salad.
Sweet & SpicySweet & Spicy
For a hint of warmth, add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper or a very fine grating of fresh ginger along with the lime juice.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Immune Support
Clementines and berries are excellent sources of Vitamin C, an antioxidant crucial for immune function, skin health, and collagen production.
Cellular Protection
Berries, especially, are packed with anthocyanins and other antioxidants that help combat free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Digestive Health & Hydration
This fruit salad is naturally high in water content, aiding hydration, and provides dietary fiber which supports healthy digestion and promotes satiety.
Frequently asked questions
While best served fresh, you can prepare the fruit and mint up to 2-3 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the lime juice and toss just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent the fruit from becoming too soft.
