Best Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad to Brighten Your Table

Bring the flavors of fall right to your table with this Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad. Bursting with seasonal fruits like crisp apples, ripe pears, juicy grapes, and sweet dried cranberries, this salad is perfectly complemented by crunchy toasted pecans and a creamy, lightly spiced yogurt dressing. It’s the ultimate mix of fresh, sweet, and nutty, making it ideal as a light dessert, side dish, or snack.

Whether it’s a holiday gathering, cozy family dinner, or weekday treat, this salad delivers bright, comforting flavors while staying wholesome and refreshing. The natural sweetness of the fruit balances the tangy yogurt dressing, creating a salad everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal goodness – showcases the best fruits of autumn
• Balanced flavors – sweet, tangy, and lightly spiced
• Quick and easy – ready in under an hour
• Nutritious – fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats in every bite
• Customizable – swap fruits, nuts, or yogurt to suit preferences

Ingredients

For the Salad

• Diced apples (3 cups) – crisp, naturally sweet base (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith recommended)
• Chopped ripe pears (2 cups) – tender, juicy sweetness
• Red grapes (1 cup, halved) – fresh, juicy bites
• Dried cranberries (1 cup) – adds chewy, tart contrast
• Chopped celery (1 cup) – crisp texture and mild flavor
• Toasted pecans (1 cup, coarsely chopped) – crunchy, nutty depth

For the Dressing

• Plain yogurt (1 cup) – creamy base (Greek yogurt adds thickness)
• Honey (2 tbsp) – natural sweetness, adjustable
• Lemon juice (2 tbsp) – prevents browning, adds brightness
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp) – warm spice for fall flavor
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – aromatic sweetness
• Pinch of salt – enhances all flavors

How to Make Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad

1. Prepare the Fruit

In a large mixing bowl, combine diced apples, halved grapes, chopped pears, and sliced celery.

Gently fold in dried cranberries to avoid crushing the fresh fruit.

2. Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast pecans for 3–4 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and coarsely chop.

Tip: Toasting brings out the natural oils and deepens the nutty flavor.

3. Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together plain yogurt, honey, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.

4. Combine the Salad

Pour the dressing over the fruit and pecan mixture. Gently fold to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tip: Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives the dressing time to lightly soften the fruit.

5. Serve

Give the salad a gentle stir before serving. Enjoy chilled as a refreshing side, dessert, or snack.

Tips for Success

• Use firm, ripe apples and pears to maintain texture
• Fold ingredients gently to prevent bruising the fruit
• Toast nuts just before assembling for maximum crunch
• Keep dressing separate if storing in the fridge to maintain freshness
• Adjust honey depending on fruit sweetness

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Skillet for toasting pecans
• Spatula or spoon
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Recipe Variations

• Nut-Free Version – swap pecans for seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds
• Extra Fruity – add pomegranate seeds, persimmons, or figs
• Vegan-Friendly – use plant-based yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey
• Spiced Twist – add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dressing

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish for roast chicken or turkey
• Pair with granola for a fall-inspired breakfast or snack
• Garnish with fresh mint or a sprinkle of cinnamon
• Great for potlucks, brunches, or holiday tables

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Keep dressing separate if possible.

Can I substitute the nuts?
Yes. Walnuts, almonds, or seeds all work well.

Will the apples and pears brown?
Lemon juice in the dressing helps prevent browning. Serve within a few hours for best appearance.

Is this salad suitable for children?
Absolutely! Mildly sweet, colorful, and crunchy – kids usually love it.

Can I adjust sweetness?
Yes, add more or less honey depending on your preference and the sweetness of the fruit.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Harvest Fruit Salad is a celebration of seasonal flavors, colors, and textures. Sweet, tart, creamy, and crunchy, it’s a versatile salad that brightens any table and is perfect for fall gatherings or everyday meals.

It’s easy to make, customizable, and packed with nutrients — a dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Enjoy the fresh, crisp flavors of fall with every bite!

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