Fresh Fruit & Veggie Salad Recipe – Ranch Dressing Delight

Last Updated on 3 months by Neha Deshmukh

Fresh Fruit & Veggie Salad Recipe – Ranch Dressing Delight

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, sometimes you just crave something fresh and easy. This Fresh Fruit & Veggie Salad with Ranch Dressing is exactly that – a burst of color, flavor, and crunch that comes together in just 5 minutes! I first made this for a summer picnic and it was a huge hit, even with the picky eaters. It’s become a staple in my house ever since.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is seriously the best for so many reasons. It’s quick, requiring absolutely no cooking – perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re having guests over. It’s also incredibly versatile; you can swap out fruits and veggies based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good ranch dressing? It ties everything together beautifully!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful salad:

• 4 Iceberg Lettuce leaves
• 0.5 Green Bell Pepper (about 75g)
• 0.5 Red Bell Pepper (about 75g)
• 0.5 Yellow Bell Pepper (about 75g)
• 1 Carrot (about 75g)
• 1 Pear (about 150g)
• 10 Grapes (about 85g)
• 5 Strawberries (about 75g)
• 2-3 tbsp Marzetti Simply Dressed Ranch Dressing (about 30-45ml)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference:

• Iceberg Lettuce: Don’t underestimate the satisfying crunch of iceberg! It provides a lovely base for all the other flavors. Romaine or butter lettuce work in a pinch, but iceberg really holds up well.
• Fruit Combination: The sweetness of the pear and grapes combined with the strawberries is just chef’s kiss. Feel free to experiment, but this trio is a winner.
• Ranch Dressing: Ranch is a classic for a reason! I love the Marzetti Simply Dressed version because it’s not overly heavy. But honestly, use your favorite – it’s all about what you like.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get to the fun part! It’s so easy, you’ll be enjoying this salad in no time.

1. First things first, give all your vegetables and fruits a really good wash under running water. Pat them dry – nobody likes a soggy salad!
2. Now, chop everything into bite-sized pieces. I like to dice the bell peppers, grate the carrot, and quarter the grapes and strawberries. The pear can be diced or sliced, whatever you prefer.
3. In a large serving bowl, arrange the whole lettuce leaves at the bottom. This creates a nice base and makes it look pretty!
4. Add all the chopped veggies and fruits on top of the lettuce.
5. Finally, drizzle with 2-3 tablespoons of ranch dressing. Gently toss everything together just before serving – you don’t want the lettuce to get all wilted.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Chill your fruit: Cold fruit just tastes better, right? Pop your grapes and strawberries in the fridge for a bit before you start.
• Don’t overdress: Start with less ranch and add more to taste. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
• Prep ahead: You can chop all the veggies and fruit ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Just add the dressing right before serving.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Ranch Flavors: Try different ranch flavors like dill, honey mustard, or avocado ranch.
• Nuts & Seeds: Add a sprinkle of toasted almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and healthy fats. My family loves this addition!
• Citrus Vinaigrette: For a lighter option, swap the ranch for a simple citrus vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey.
• Kid-Friendly: My little one isn’t always a fan of veggies, so I sometimes add a few mandarin orange segments to make it extra appealing.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is fantastic on its own as a light lunch or snack. It also pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It’s a great side dish for barbecues and potlucks too!

Storage Instructions

This salad is best served immediately, as the lettuce can get soggy over time. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. The fruit might release some juices, so it won’t be as crisp.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is this salad best served immediately? Yes, definitely! It’s at its freshest and crispiest right after you toss it with the dressing.
• Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time? Absolutely! Chop the veggies and fruit and store them separately in the fridge. Add the dressing just before serving.
• What other fruits and vegetables can I add? The possibilities are endless! Try adding cucumber, cherry tomatoes, pineapple, blueberries, or mango.
• Can I use a different dressing? Of course! Feel free to use your favorite dressing – Italian, vinaigrette, or even a creamy yogurt-based dressing would be delicious.
• Is this salad suitable for a potluck? Yes, it’s perfect for potlucks! Just keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving to prevent the salad from getting soggy.