Jane's Fabulous Fruit Salad
Ingredients
6
servings
- 2 bananas
- 1/2 (10 oz) jar maraschino cherries
- 1 small box raisins
- 1 Red Delicious apple, cut into small pieces
- 1 (5 oz) can mandarin oranges
- 1 kiwi
- 1 (9 oz) can fruit cocktail
- 1/4 (14 oz) can condensed milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, peel and slice bananas and kiwi fruit. Add the apple pieces.
- Drain the cherries, mandarin oranges, and fruit cocktail and add to the banana mixture. Add the raisins.
- Pour the condensed milk over the fruit and gently toss to coat all the fruits evenly.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
Common Problems and Solutions
Q: Why does my fruit salad get watery?
A: Make sure to drain all the canned fruits thoroughly before adding them to the bowl. The cherries, mandarin oranges, and fruit cocktail should be well-drained, and you can even pat them dry with a paper towel if needed.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, but it's best made no more than 2-3 hours ahead. The bananas will start to brown, and the condensed milk may cause the fruits to release more liquid over time. If making ahead, wait to add the bananas and kiwi until just before serving.
Tips and Techniques
Cut the apple into small, bite-sized pieces so they match the size of the other fruits for easier eating. You can squeeze a little lemon juice over the apple and banana pieces to help prevent browning if making ahead.
Ingredient Substitutions
- maraschino cherries: fresh cherries or dried cranberries
- Red Delicious apple: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples
- condensed milk: vanilla yogurt or whipped topping mixed with a little honey
- kiwi: fresh pineapple chunks or green grapes
Equipment Needed
- medium mixing bowl
- cutting board
- knife
- can opener
