Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how quick and easy this fruit salad is to prepare. It’s naturally sweet, colorful, and full of refreshing flavor. The instant pudding mix adds a creamy texture that clings to the fruit, giving it a dessert-like feel without being heavy. It’s my go-to for warm weather gatherings and light snacks.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 fresh pineapple, cored and cut into chunks
1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges in light syrup, drained
2 bananas, peeled and sliced
1 box (4-serving size) sugar-free vanilla instant pudding
directions
I start by coring and cutting the pineapple into bite-sized chunks and placing them in a large mixing bowl. Then I gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges.
Next, I slice the bananas and add them to the bowl with the other fruit. I sprinkle the sugar-free vanilla instant pudding mix directly over the fruit and toss everything together until evenly coated.
I cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes. This allows the pudding mix to soften and the flavors to blend beautifully.
When I’m ready to serve, I give the salad a gentle stir and enjoy it chilled as a light dessert or snack.
Servings and timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: –
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes add seedless grapes, strawberries, or blueberries for extra color and flavor. For a tropical twist, I stir in shredded coconut or a splash of coconut milk. If I want a more indulgent version, I fold in a dollop of whipped topping just before serving.
storage/reheating
I store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Since it contains bananas, I try to enjoy it as soon as possible to keep the fruit fresh. I don’t recommend reheating, as it’s meant to be served cold.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare it a few hours in advance, but I wait to add the bananas until just before serving to keep them from browning.
What other fruits work well in this recipe?
I like adding kiwi, apples, or berries depending on what I have on hand. It’s very customizable.
Can I use regular pudding mix instead of sugar-free?
Absolutely. I use whichever version I prefer or have available.
How do I keep bananas from browning?
I sometimes toss them in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad. This helps maintain their color.
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, just be sure to choose a dairy-free instant pudding mix.
Conclusion
This Sunshine Salad is a cheerful, fruity treat that comes together in minutes and brings brightness to any table. Whether I serve it at a picnic, potluck, or just enjoy it as a light snack, it’s always a refreshing and crowd-pleasing choice.
Print
Sunshine Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This sunshine salad is a fruity, creamy mix of pineapple, mandarin oranges, and bananas tossed with sugar-free vanilla pudding. A refreshing no-cook treat perfect for picnics and potlucks.
Ingredients
1 fresh pineapple, cored and cut into chunks
1 can (15 oz) mandarin oranges in light syrup, drained
2 bananas, peeled and sliced
1 box (4-serving size) sugar-free vanilla instant pudding mix
Instructions
Place pineapple chunks in a large mixing bowl.
Gently fold in the drained mandarin oranges.
Add sliced bananas to the bowl.
Sprinkle the vanilla instant pudding mix over the fruit and toss until evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the pudding soften and flavors blend.
Stir gently before serving and enjoy chilled.
Notes
Add grapes, berries, or shredded coconut for variation.
Use lemon juice on bananas to prevent browning.
For a creamier version, fold in whipped topping just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Salad, Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
