Name: Creamy Grape Fruit Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs seedless red grapes; 1 lb seedless green grapes; 6 oz neufchâtel cheese; ⅔ cup light sour cream; 2 tbsp honey; 1½ tbsp granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp light brown sugar; ¾ cup pecans

Indulge in a creamy and refreshing twist on a traditional fruit salad with this creamy grapefruit salad recipe. Combining the sweet and tangy flavors of red grapes and green grapes with a luscious sour cream mixture, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Creamy Grape Fruit Salad Recipe

One ingredient you might not have readily available at home is neufchâtel cheese, which is a soft, creamy cheese similar to cream cheese but with lower fat content. Pecans and light brown sugar add a delightful crunch and sweetness to the salad, so don't forget to pick them up at the supermarket.

Ingredients for Creamy Grapefruit Salad Recipe

Red grapes: Sweet and juicy seedless red grapes add a burst of flavor and color to the salad.

Green grapes: Seedless green grapes offer a tart contrast to the sweetness of the red grapes.

Neufchâtel cheese: A lower-fat alternative to cream cheese, providing a creamy base for the dressing.

Light sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess to the dressing.

Honey: Natural sweetener that enhances the flavor of the dressing.

Granulated sugar: Adds additional sweetness to balance the tanginess of the sour cream.

Vanilla extract: Infuses the dressing with a warm, rich flavor.

Light brown sugar: Provides a caramel-like sweetness and delightful crunch on top.

Pecans: Adds a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the salad.

One reader, Burgess Prince says:

This creamy grapefruit salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures! The tangy dressing perfectly complements the sweet grapes, and the pecans add a satisfying crunch. It's a refreshing and unique dish that's perfect for any occasion. Highly recommend!

Burgess Prince

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Grapefruit Salad Recipe

How to whip neufchâtel cheese: Use an electric hand mixer to beat the neufchâtel cheese until it becomes smooth and fluffy, occasionally scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure even consistency. How to mix ingredients: Combine sour cream, honey, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract with the whipped neufchâtel cheese until well blended. How to toss salad: Pour the sour cream mixture over the grapes and pecans in a salad bowl, then toss to evenly coat all the ingredients. How to chill salad: Place the prepared salad in the refrigerator to chill before serving.

How To Make Creamy Grape Fruit Salad

This fruit salad comes with a creamy dressing with notes of pecan, cheese and sour cream. Enjoy them for dessert or as a yummy appetizer.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2lbsseedless red grapeswashed and dried well
1lbseedless green grapeswashed and dried well
6 ozNeufchatel cheeseor ⅓ less fat cream cheese
⅔cuplight sour cream
2tbsphoney
1½tbspgranulated sugar
1tspvanilla extract
2tbsplight brown sugar
¾cuppecanschopped

Instructions

In a medium mixing bowl using an electric hand mixer, whip Neufchatel cheese until smooth and fluffy, while occasionally scraping down sides of bowl.
Add in sour cream, honey, granulated sugar, and vanilla then mix until well combined.
Place red and green grapes in a salad bowl.
Pour in sour cream mixture and about ¾ of the pecans. Toss to evenly coat.
Sprinkle top of fruit salad with brown sugar then sprinkle with remaining pecans.
Chill, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1168.28kcal
Fat: 102.27g
Saturated Fat: 24.99g
Monounsaturated Fat: 49.17g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 22.65g
Carbohydrates: 57.05g
Fiber: 10.53g
Sugar: 28.32g
Protein: 20.55g
Cholesterol: 101.48mg
Sodium: 288.46mg
Calcium: 439.62mg
Potassium: 1157.55mg
Iron: 3.14mg
Vitamin A: 281.69µg
Vitamin C: 6.81mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Creamy Grapefruit Salad Recipe

To ensure the neufchâtel cheese blends smoothly with the sour cream, make sure the cheese is at room temperature before whipping. This will help achieve a creamy, lump-free mixture that coats the grapes evenly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Creamy Grapefruit Salad

Prepare ingredients ahead: Wash and dry the grapes the night before to save time on the day of preparation.

Use pre-chopped nuts: Buy pecans that are already chopped to avoid extra prep work.

Soften cheese quickly: Leave the neufchâtel cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes before starting to make it easier to whip.

Measure ingredients in advance: Pre-measure the sour cream, honey, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract so you can mix them quickly.

Chill the bowl: Place the salad bowl in the fridge while preparing the mixture to keep the fruit salad cool.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Grape Fruit Salad Recipe

seedless red grapes - Substitute with black grapes: Black grapes have a similar sweetness and texture, making them a good alternative.
seedless green grapes - Substitute with kiwi slices: Kiwi adds a tangy flavor and a similar juicy texture to the salad.
neufchâtel cheese - Substitute with cream cheese: Cream cheese has a similar texture and taste, making it a suitable replacement.
light sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture and a slight tang, similar to light sour cream.
honey - Substitute with agave syrup: Agave syrup is a natural sweetener with a similar consistency to honey.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor to the salad.
light brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a rich, sweet flavor and can be used in a similar quantity.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts have a similar texture and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative.

Presenting Your Creamy Grapefruit Salad

Use a chilled glass bowl: Present the grapes in a clear, chilled glass bowl to highlight their vibrant colors and freshness.
Layer the ingredients: Start with a base layer of red grapes and green grapes, followed by a generous drizzle of the sour cream mixture.
Add texture with pecans: Sprinkle pecans evenly throughout the salad, ensuring some are visible on the top for added texture and visual appeal.
Garnish with brown sugar: Lightly dust the top with light brown sugar to create a subtle, sweet crust that contrasts with the creamy dressing.
Serve in individual portions: For a refined presentation, serve the salad in individual glass cups or bowls, allowing each guest to appreciate the layers and textures.
Chill before serving: Ensure the salad is well-chilled before serving to enhance the refreshing taste and maintain the crispness of the grapes.
Add a mint leaf: Place a small, fresh mint leaf on top of each serving for a touch of color and a hint of freshness that complements the flavors.
Use a decorative platter: If serving family-style, use a decorative platter with a slight edge to contain the salad and prevent any dressing from spilling over.
Highlight the creaminess: Ensure the neufchâtel cheese and sour cream mixture is evenly distributed, creating a creamy, luscious coating on the grapes.
Serve with finesse: Use a small spoon or tongs to carefully place the salad into serving dishes, maintaining the integrity of the presentation and ensuring each portion looks pristine.

Essential Tools for Making Creamy Grapefruit Salad

Electric hand mixer: Used to whip the neufchâtel cheese until smooth and fluffy, ensuring a creamy texture for the salad dressing.
Medium mixing bowl: Holds the neufchâtel cheese while it is being whipped and mixed with other ingredients.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Salad bowl: Used to combine the red and green grapes with the creamy dressing and pecans.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the sour cream, honey, and pecans.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and light brown sugar.
Knife: Handy for chopping the pecans if they are not pre-chopped.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the pecans.
Serving spoon: Used to toss the grapes with the creamy mixture and to serve the salad.
Refrigerator: Needed to chill the salad before serving to enhance the flavors and texture.

Storing and Freezing Creamy Grapefruit Salad

This creamy grape salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together beautifully as it chills, making it even more delicious the next day!
If you want to prepare this salad ahead of time, mix the dressing and store it separately from the grapes and pecans. When ready to serve, toss the grapes with the dressing and sprinkle the pecans on top for the best texture and presentation.
Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the sour cream and neufchâtel cheese in the dressing may separate and become grainy when thawed. The grapes may also become mushy and lose their texture after being frozen.
If you have leftovers, you can enjoy them as a sweet and creamy snack or even as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal. The possibilities are endless with this versatile and delicious grape salad!

Interesting Fact About Creamy Grapefruit Salad

A unique aspect of this creamy grapefruit salad recipe is the use of neufchâtel cheese, which is a lower-fat alternative to cream cheese. This not only makes the salad lighter but also adds a subtle tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the grapes.

Is Making Creamy Grapefruit Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This creamy grapefruit salad recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, grapes, neufchâtel cheese, and pecans, are relatively affordable and widely available. The use of light sour cream and honey adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Overall, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Considering the delightful taste and nutritional value, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 out of 10.

Is This Creamy Grapefruit Salad Recipe Healthy?

This creamy grapefruit salad recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to its high sugar content and the use of full-fat dairy products. The combination of honey, granulated sugar, and brown sugar adds a significant amount of added sugars to the dish. Additionally, the neufchâtel cheese and sour cream, although lighter than their regular counterparts, still contribute to the overall fat content of the salad.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of added sugars by omitting the granulated sugar and brown sugar, and using a smaller amount of honey or a natural sugar substitute like stevia
Replace the neufchâtel cheese with a low-fat Greek yogurt, which will provide a creamy texture and a boost of protein while reducing the fat content
Opt for a fat-free or low-fat sour cream to further reduce the fat content of the dish
Increase the nutritional value by adding other fruits, such as sliced apples or mandarin oranges, to the salad
Toast the pecans to enhance their flavor without the need for additional sugar, and consider using a smaller amount to reduce the overall calorie count

Editor's Opinion on This Creamy Grapefruit Salad Recipe

This creamy grapefruit salad recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The combination of red and green grapes provides a refreshing burst of sweetness, while the creamy dressing made from neufchâtel cheese, sour cream, honey, and vanilla adds a rich, tangy note. The pecans introduce a satisfying crunch, and the light brown sugar on top gives a subtle caramelized finish. It's a well-balanced dish that's both visually appealing and delicious. Perfect for a light dessert or a festive side dish, this salad is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Creamy Grape Fruit Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Imagine the smoky char of grilled asparagus paired with the zesty brightness of lemon. This side-dish will add a refreshing contrast to the creamy sweetness of your grape salad.

Herb-Crusted Chicken Tenders: Herb-Crusted Chicken Tenders: These crispy chicken tenders are coated with a blend of fresh herbs and breadcrumbs. They offer a savory crunch that complements the smooth texture of the neufchâtel cheese dressing in your salad.

Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges: The caramelized edges of roasted sweet potatoes bring a touch of earthiness and a hint of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the honey and pecans in your salad.

Quinoa and Black Bean Salad: Quinoa and Black Bean Salad: A hearty mix of quinoa, black beans, and colorful veggies tossed in a tangy lime vinaigrette. This side-dish adds a protein-packed, zesty element to your meal.

Mango Sorbet: Mango Sorbet: Finish off your meal with a refreshing scoop of mango sorbet. Its tropical sweetness and icy texture provide a delightful contrast to the creamy, nutty flavors of your grape salad.

Similar Recipes to Creamy Grapefruit Salad

Tropical Fruit Salad With Coconut Cream: Dive into a refreshing tropical fruit salad with a luscious coconut cream dressing. This vibrant dish combines juicy mangoes, pineapples, and kiwis with a creamy, slightly sweet coconut dressing. Perfect for a summer day or a light dessert.

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Why trust this Creamy Grape Fruit Salad Recipe:

This recipe combines the refreshing taste of grapes with the creamy texture of neufchâtel cheese and sour cream. The addition of honey and vanilla extract adds a delightful sweetness, while the pecans provide a satisfying crunch. The balance of flavors and textures makes this salad a standout dish. Plus, it's easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Trust this recipe for a delicious and unique salad experience.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Creamy Grape Fruit Salad Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of neufchâtel cheese?

Yes, you can use regular cream cheese if you prefer. Neufchâtel cheese is just a lower-fat option, but the taste will be quite similar.

How long can I store the creamy grapefruit salad in the fridge?

You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would work well too. Just make sure to chop them up so they mix evenly with the salad.

Is there a way to make this salad vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the neufchâtel cheese and sour cream with vegan alternatives. Also, use agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey.

Can I add other fruits to this salad?

Sure, feel free to add fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even apple slices. Just make sure they complement the grapes and the creamy dressing.