Tropical Dragon Fruit Salad
A vibrant and refreshing tropical fruit salad featuring the unique texture and mild sweetness of dragon fruit, complemented by juicy mango, tangy pineapple, and bright kiwi, all tossed in a zesty lime-mint dressing.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Dragon Fruit: Carefully peel the dragon fruits and cut the flesh into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. Place them into a large mixing bowl.
Prepare Other Fruits: Peel the mango and cut the flesh into similar 1-inch cubes. Core and cube the pineapple. Peel the kiwi fruits and slice them into quarters or 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick rounds, then halve those if desired. Add all prepared fruits to the bowl with the dragon fruit.
Make the Dressing: Zest about half of the lime directly over the fruits. Then, cut the lime in half and squeeze its juice over the fruit mixture.
Add Mint and Sweetener (Optional): Add the finely chopped fresh mint leaves to the bowl. If desired, drizzle with honey or agave nectar for a touch more sweetness.
Gently Toss: Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss all the ingredients together until the fruits are evenly coated with the lime juice and mint. Be careful not to mash the softer fruits.
Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly.
Serve: Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert, breakfast side, or light snack.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Fruit Ripeness: Ensure all fruits, especially mango and pineapple, are ripe but firm. Overripe fruits can become mushy when tossed.
- 2Gentle Handling: Dragon fruit is delicate. Use a gentle hand when cutting and tossing to maintain its shape and texture.
- 3Mint Freshness: Use only fresh, vibrant mint leaves. Bruised or wilted mint can impart an off-flavor. Chop just before adding for maximum aroma.
- 4Custom Sweetness: Taste the salad before adding honey or agave. The natural sweetness of ripe fruits might be sufficient.
Adapt it for your goals.
Berry Boost
Add 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries for extra color and antioxidants.
Coconut Cream DrizzleCoconut Cream Drizzle
For a richer dessert, drizzle with a tablespoon of full-fat coconut cream just before serving.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Sprinkle with a tablespoon of toasted shredded coconut or chopped pistachios for added texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Dragon fruit, mango, and kiwi are packed with antioxidants like Vitamin C, betacyanins, and carotenoids, which help protect cells from damage.
Excellent Source of Fiber
This salad provides a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion, promoting satiety, and supporting gut health.
Hydrating and Electrolyte-Rich
With its high water content and natural sugars, this fruit salad is naturally hydrating and provides essential electrolytes, perfect for a refreshing boost.
Frequently asked questions
While best served fresh, you can prepare the fruits and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Dress and toss just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
