Prep: 20 mins | Cook: None | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
145 | 0.3g | 0g | 38g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
29g | 5g | 2g | 0g |
I’m delighted to introduce you to a dynamic and refreshingly unique recipe that brings together a medley of flavors in unusual combinations: the Ugli Fruit Salad! I fondly recall the first time I laid eyes on ugli fruit at a Texan farmers market; its peculiar looks piqued my curiosity instantly and from then on, they became a stalwart component in my kitchen.
Taking a walk on the wild fruit side
We can all agree that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and ugliness, equally subjective. And this is particularly true for the Ugli fruit. Originating from the exotic landscapes of Jamaica, Ugli fruit is the delicious underdog of the citrus world – a heartwarming story of not judging a fruit by its peel.
This recipe reminds me of the traditional Texan fruit salads my family used to prepare on hot summer days. The Ugli fruit, with its tangy-sweet flavor, introduces a new, captivating layer of complexity to these conventional salads. Alongside the pineapple chunks, sliced strawberries, and the succulent slices of kiwi, each bite is an explosion of juicy, tropical flavors balanced with the tartness of citrus and a hint of refreshing mint. Combine all this with a drizzle of lemon and orange juice, and you’ve got yourself an unmissable, uplifting dish!
Health benefits hiding in plain sight
Despite the implied unattractiveness in its name, the Ugli Fruit Salad has always been my secret weapon in staying fit and healthy. Ugli fruit, as with most citrus fruits, is packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants and has shown potential for weight management and heart health benefits. Coupled with the vitamins from strawberries, pineapples, and kiwis – this fruit salad is a colorful cornucopia of nutrients!
And let’s not forget the added bonus of zero fat and low calories. So if you’re looking for a guilt-free treat that can hold its own, my colorful Ugli Fruit Salad is the one for you!
Perfect Pairings
You may want to enjoy this Ugli Fruit Salad on its own as a light and refreshing dessert, yet it also serves as a perfect accompaniment to many dishes. I love to pair it with fiery Tex-Mex cuisines as it provides a sweet and cool contrast to the spicy flavors. Check out this recipe for traditional Tex-Mex Shrimp Tacos or this delicious Tex-Mex Chicken dish. A little fruity break in between helps balance the palate and keeps the appetite alive for more.
In conclusion, the Ugli Fruit Salad embodies a sense of novelty, zestiness, and a world of flavors – showcasing the wonderful world of combining traditional recipes with modern day elements.
What You’ll Need
- 3 Ugli fruits, peeled, sectioned, and cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup of pineapple chunks
- 1 cup of sliced strawberries
- 2 kiwi fruits, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of orange juice
- Mint leaves for garnish
Method
Step One
Peel the Ugli fruits, section them, and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to remove all seeds.
Step Two
Prepare your other fruits by draining your pineapple chunks, slice your strawberries, and peel and slice your kiwi fruits.
Step Three
In a large salad bowl, combine the Ugli fruit pieces, pineapple chunks, sliced strawberries, and kiwi slices.
Step Four
In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and orange juice. Stir well until all the sugar has dissolved completely.
Step Five
Pour the sugar and juice mixture over the fruit in the salad bowl. Toss gently to ensure all the fruit is coated.
Step Six
Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving. This allows time for the flavors to meld together.
Step Seven
When you’re ready to serve, spoon the fruit salad into individual bowls and garnish with mint leaves.