The ultimate sauce for your fruit bowls: how to make mayonnaise-based fruit salad dressing

Elevate your fruit salads from ordinary to extraordinary with a creamy and flavorful mayonnaise-based dressing. This versatile condiment adds a tangy and rich dimension to fresh fruits, creating a delightful and refreshing treat. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a healthy and indulgent snack, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know on how to make fruit salad dressing with mayonnaise.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as mint, basil, or cilantro)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon grated lemon or orange zest

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream or yogurt, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add Herbs: Stir in the chopped fresh herbs and lemon or orange zest, if desired.
3. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the dressing and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more honey for sweetness, salt for savoriness, or herbs for freshness.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and intensify.

Variations:

• Sweet and Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped chili pepper to the dressing for a touch of heat.
• Tropical Twist: Incorporate some pineapple or mango puree into the dressing for a tropical flair.
• Creamy and Tangy: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a thicker and tangier dressing.
• Herbaceous Delight: Add a variety of fresh herbs, such as dill, parsley, or chives, for a burst of flavor.

Fruits That Pair Well with Mayonnaise Dressing:

• Strawberries
• Blueberries
• Raspberries
• Blackberries
• Grapes
• Kiwi
• Mango
• Pineapple
• Bananas

Serving Suggestions:

• Fruit Salad: Toss your favorite fruits with the mayonnaise dressing and serve chilled.
• Grilled Fruit: Brush grilled fruit with the dressing for a sweet and savory glaze.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer the dressing with yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit for a healthy and satisfying breakfast or snack.
• Sandwich Spread: Use the dressing as a spread for sandwiches or wraps with grilled chicken or fish.

Tips:

• Use high-quality mayonnaise: The quality of the mayonnaise will greatly affect the taste of the dressing.
• Let the dressing chill: Allowing the dressing to chill will give the flavors time to develop and blend.
• Don’t overdress: A little bit of dressing goes a long way. Avoid drowning your fruit salad in the dressing.
• Experiment with different fruits: Don’t limit yourself to the fruits listed above. Try using any combination of fresh fruits to create your own unique fruit salad.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of fat instead of mayonnaise?
A: Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even avocado for a healthier option.

Q: How long will the dressing keep in the refrigerator?
A: The dressing will keep for up to 5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to the dressing?
A: Yes, you can add a variety of ingredients to customize the dressing, such as chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.

Q: What are some creative ways to use the dressing?
A: Besides fruit salad, you can use the dressing as a dip for vegetables, a glaze for grilled meats, or a marinade for chicken or fish.