Creamy Banana–Pineapple Citrus Salad
Description
This refreshing fruit salad combines sweet bananas, juicy pineapple, and bright citrus (orange + lemon or lime) all coated in a light, creamy dressing. It’s cool, tangy, sweet, and perfect for summer cookouts, brunches, potlucks, or as a quick dessert. The citrus helps keep the bananas from browning while adding a wonderful zing.
Time Overview
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time (recommended): 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
Fruit
3 ripe but firm bananas, sliced
1 ½ cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
2 oranges, segmented (or 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained)
1 apple (optional), chopped
½ cup grapes (optional), halved
Creamy Citrus Dressing
½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
2 tbsp honey or sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp lemon or lime juice (to prevent browning & add brightness)
¼ cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
Pinch of salt (enhances sweetness)
Optional Add-ins
½ cup mini marshmallows
Shredded coconut
Chopped pecans or walnuts
Maraschino cherries
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Citrus
Zest ½ an orange or lemon (optional but recommended).
Segment the oranges and cut into bite-size pieces.
Reserve ¼ cup orange juice for the dressing.
2. Mix the Creamy Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
Greek yogurt / sour cream
Mayonnaise (if using)
Honey or sugar
Vanilla extract
Lemon/lime juice
Orange juice
A pinch of salt
Whisk until smooth, creamy, and pourable.
3. Prepare the Fruit
Slice bananas last so they stay fresh.
Chop apple (if using) and toss with a teaspoon of lemon juice.
Combine pineapple, oranges, grapes, and apples in a large bowl.
4. Combine Everything
Add the banana slices on top.
Pour the creamy citrus dressing over all the fruit.
Gently fold with a spatula until evenly coated.
5. Chill (Optional but Best)
Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes to let flavors blend.
Serving Suggestions
Serve in chilled bowls for extra refreshment.
Top with toasted coconut or nuts for crunch
For dessert, drizzle with honey or add a scoop of whipped cream.
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Bananas may soften by the next day—add fresh slices before serving if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I keep the bananas from turning brown?
Use lemon or lime juice. The citrus in the dressing also naturally slows browning.
2. Can I make this the night before?
Yes—but add the bananas just before serving for best texture.
3. Can I use canned fruit?
Yes!
Drain well to avoid a watery salad. Canned pineapple and mandarin oranges work beautifully.
4. Is there a dairy-free version?
Use:
Coconut yogurt
A splash of coconut milk
Honey or a little sugar
It creates a tropical flavor that pairs great with pineapple.
5. Can this be made healthier?
Yes:
Use plain Greek yogurt only (no mayo)
Sweeten with honey or omit sweetener
Add more fresh fruit to bulk it out
6. Why add salt to a fruit salad?
A tiny pinch enhances the natural sweetness and improves overall flavor.
7. Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Great additions include:
Strawberries
Mango
Blueberries
Kiwi (add just before serving)