Spicy Fruit Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Spicy Fruit Salad is a refreshing twist on a classic summer treat, combining sweet, tangy fruit with a hint of heat. It’s perfect for a light snack or an exciting side dish that wakes up your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe mangos, peeled and cubed
- 4 medium kiwi, peeled and sliced or quartered
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 small lime, juiced (about 2 Tbsp or 30 ml)
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar (optional)
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- 1 pinch sea salt
- 1 ounce silver tequila or white rum (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Add all the prepared fruit to a large mixing or serving bowl.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and maple syrup if using. Pour this mixture over the fruit and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the sea salt over the fruit. Gradually add the chili powder a little at a time, gently folding the salad after each addition to distribute the heat evenly. Adjust to taste, starting with 1/4 teaspoon.
- Step 4: Taste the salad and adjust the flavors as needed. Add more chili powder, maple syrup, or lime juice to suit your preference. For an adult version, stir in the tequila or white rum if desired.
- Step 5: Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or cover and chill for 2 to 3 days to let the flavors meld. You can also freeze the salad for longer storage (see tips).
Tips & Variations
- Use ripe and sweet fruit to reduce the need for additional sweeteners.
- Try substituting chili powder with cayenne or a pinch of smoked paprika for a different kind of heat.
- Omit the alcohol for a family-friendly version or substitute with a splash of sparkling water for some fizz.
- Freeze leftovers in a sealed container for up to one month, then thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The fruit will release juices, so give it a gentle stir before serving. Avoid storing with alcohol if planning to keep it for longer. Reheat is not recommended; best served chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits in this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with fruits like pineapple, grapes, or peaches depending on season and preference.
Is the alcohol necessary?
No, the tequila or rum is optional and mainly adds a boozy flavor. The salad is delicious and refreshing without it.
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Spicy Fruit Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A vibrant and zesty Spicy Fruit Salad combining fresh mango, kiwi, strawberries, and blueberries, enhanced with lime juice, a hint of chili powder, and optional sweetness and boozy accents for a refreshing and flavorful treat.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 2 ripe mangos, peeled and cubed
- 4 medium kiwi, peeled and sliced or quartered
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
- 1 cup blueberries
Dressing and Seasoning
- 1 small lime, juiced (~2 Tbsp or 30 ml)
- 1 Tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar (optional)
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- 1 pinch sea salt
- 1 ounce silver tequila or white rum (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the Fruits: Add all the prepared mango, kiwi, strawberries, and blueberries into a large mixing or serving bowl to create the salad base.
- Make the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the lime juice and maple syrup or agave nectar if using. Pour this mixture over the fruit and gently toss to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
- Season the Salad: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the fruit. Gradually add the chili powder, about 1/4 teaspoon, folding and stirring gently after each addition to distribute the spice without overpowering the fruit.
- Taste and Adjust: Sample the salad and adjust the flavors as preferred by adding more chili powder for heat, maple syrup for sweetness, or lime juice for acidity. If desired, add the tequila or white rum to give the salad a boozy kick and gently mix.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the spicy fruit salad immediately to enjoy fresh, or cover and refrigerate for 2 to 3 days to allow flavors to meld. For longer storage, freezing is also an option (refer to notes).
Notes
- This salad can be made spicier or milder by adjusting the chili powder quantity.
- Maple syrup or agave nectar is optional and can be omitted if fruits are perfectly ripe and naturally sweet.
- For a boozy variation, add silver tequila or white rum just before serving.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; flavors deepen over time.
- Freezing is possible but the texture of fruits like strawberries and kiwi may change upon thawing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
Keywords: spicy fruit salad, mango salad, kiwi salad, chili powder fruit salad, fresh fruit recipe, vegan fruit salad, refreshing fruit salad, summer salad
