Description
Ensalada Navideña is a refreshing, colorful, and creamy fruit salad traditionally served during Christmas celebrations in Mexico and other Latin American countries. Made with a mix of fresh fruits, nuts, and a sweet, creamy dressing, this salad adds a festive touch to holiday meals.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 4 medium red apples, diced
- 2 medium bananas, sliced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
- 1 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
- A squeeze of fresh lime juice (to prevent fruit from browning)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples and sliced bananas. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to prevent browning and gently toss.
- Add the pineapple chunks, grapes, diced celery, chopped nuts, raisins, and mini marshmallows (if using).
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream (if using), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the fruit mixture and gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top for an extra festive touch, if desired.
Notes
- You can customize the salad by adding other fruits like pears, peaches, or mandarin oranges.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream.
- This salad tastes best when served chilled.