Get ready to brighten your next party or family gathering with this vibrant Fruit Salad for a Crowd! Bursting with juicy berries, sweet cantaloupe, crisp grapes, and refreshing kiwi, this crowd-pleasing dish is as beautiful to look at as it is irresistible to eat. Every bite is a celebration of fresh flavors and satisfying textures—plus, it’s a cinch to make, looks stunning in a big bowl, and is always a welcome sight on any table.

Fruit Salad for a Crowd Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Fruit Salad for a Crowd is how easily you can combine simple, fresh ingredients into something spectacular. Each fruit brings its own color, flavor, and texture to the party, making every spoonful uniquely delicious and eye-catching.

Cantaloupe (2.5 lb, one small or half a large): Brings a burst of sunset-orange color and a honeyed sweetness that holds its shape well in salads.
Blueberries (10 oz): Little pops of tartness that don’t get mushy and add pretty blue hues.
Whole strawberries (14 oz): These ruby gems add juicy sweetness and look gorgeous when quartered.
Grapes, red or green (10 oz): Crisp, juicy, and perfect for adding crunch—pick whichever color fits your vibe.
Large kiwi (3): Tangy, tropical, and beautiful with their emerald green and starburst seeds—essential for that wow factor.

How to Make Fruit Salad for a Crowd

Step 1: Wash and Drain the Berries and Grapes

Start by giving your blueberries, grapes, and strawberries a gentle but thorough rinse under cool water in a large colander. Moving them around with your hands ensures you wash away any dirt or debris. Set them aside to drain in the sink so they have time to dry a bit as you prep the other fruit—preventing your salad from becoming watery.

Step 2: Cut and Cube the Cantaloupe

Place the cantaloupe on your cutting board and slice it in half. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and discard them. Cut one half into quarters, then slice a quarter lengthwise into three pieces. Now, cut bite-sized cubes right into the flesh, making parallel cuts without cutting through the rind. Glide your knife between the rind and the flesh, letting the cubed pieces tumble out. Repeat until all the cantaloupe is cubed and drop the sweet orange chunks into your largest salad bowl.

Step 3: Peel and Quarter the Kiwi

Take the kiwi and, with a paring or peeling knife, carefully slice away the fuzzy skin. This can be done in rounds or top to bottom, whatever’s easiest. Trim off any remaining peel on the ends, then slice each kiwi into 1/4-inch slices. Cut each slice into quarters for elegantly bite-sized pieces, then add them to the bowl. The fresh tang of kiwi really perks up the flavor, and the green color pops next to the other fruits.

Step 4: Prepare the Grapes and Blueberries

Pat the drained grapes and blueberries with a kitchen towel if they’re still wet. Remove the grapes from their stems and toss both the grapes and blueberries straight into the bowl. These add bold color and a juicy, snappy texture that contrasts perfectly with the softer fruits.

Step 5: Hull and Quarter the Strawberries

Remove the green stems from the strawberries, then use the tip of your knife to core out the center. Slice each berry into quarters—cut from top to bottom and then slice each half again. The result is beautiful, bite-sized wedges that blend perfectly into your Fruit Salad for a Crowd and make each serving taste like summer.

Step 6: Gently Mix Everything Together

Using a large spoon, gently toss all your prepped fruits together in the bowl. Take your time and stir softly—berries and kiwi can bruise easily. If you’re serving immediately, admire the rainbow of fresh colors! Or, cover and refrigerate for later. If you made it ahead, just give it a gentle stir again right before serving.

How to Serve Fruit Salad for a Crowd

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh mint, a drizzle of honey, or even a dusting of citrus zest can instantly elevate your Fruit Salad for a Crowd. These simple touches add freshness and just a hint of elegance for special occasions. Let guests add their own garnishes at the table for a fun and interactive feel!

Side Dishes

Fruit Salad for a Crowd pairs beautifully with brunch classics like quiches, pastries, and muffins. It’s also a refreshing side to heartier main courses at potlucks or picnics, helping to balance savory flavors and cleanse the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile the salad high in a clear glass trifle bowl to show off all those gorgeous colors, or scoop into individual cups for easy serving at large events. You could even skewer the fruit for grab-and-go fruit kabobs—kids and adults will love the playful presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Fruit Salad for a Crowd in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days if your fruit was perfectly ripe to start. Stir gently before serving again to redistribute the juices and flavors.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it isn’t ideal. The fruits will lose their crisp texture and become watery when thawed—best to enjoy this salad fresh! If you must freeze, only do so with the firmest fruits and expect a change in texture upon defrosting.

Reheating

No need to reheat! Fruit Salad for a Crowd is meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. If it’s been in the fridge, set it out for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors mingle and come to life.

FAQs

Can I substitute other fruits in this salad?

Absolutely! The beauty of Fruit Salad for a Crowd is its flexibility. Try mango, pineapple, or oranges for a tropical twist, or swap in blackberries and raspberries for variety. Just choose fruits that hold their shape and don’t get mushy.

How far in advance can I make this salad?

You can make Fruit Salad for a Crowd up to a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. If you’re prepping further in advance, wait to add the delicate berries and kiwi until just before serving to keep everything crisp and colorful.

What’s the best way to keep the fruit salad from getting watery?

The key is to dry your fruits as thoroughly as possible after washing, especially the berries and grapes. Also, use fruit that’s ripe but still firm, and avoid over-mixing. Serve soon after tossing for the freshest results!

Can I add a dressing or syrup?

While the fruit is delicious on its own, a light drizzle of citrusy honey syrup or a splash of fresh orange juice can add extra shine and flavor. Just be careful—a heavy syrup can make it soggy and overpower the natural taste.

Is this recipe allergy-friendly?

Generally, yes! Fruit Salad for a Crowd is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Just be mindful if any guests have allergies to specific fruits—if so, simply swap with safe alternatives.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, holiday brunch, or just a family night in, Fruit Salad for a Crowd never disappoints. Its brilliant colors and irresistible flavors set the scene for good times and happy memories. So grab your freshest fruit and whip up a big bowl—your guests will be delighted!

Fruit Salad for a Crowd Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 16 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 10–12 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Fruit Salad for a Crowd recipe is a delightful blend of fresh, colorful fruits that are perfect for gatherings and potlucks. It’s a simple, yet vibrant dish that will surely impress your guests with its flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Cantaloupe:

2.5 lb cantaloupe (one small one or half a large one)

Blueberries:

10 oz blueberries

Strawberries:

14 oz whole strawberries

Grapes:

10 oz grapes (red or green)

Kiwi:

3 large kiwi

Instructions

Wash the berries and grapes: Start by washing the berries and grapes. Place them in a colander, rinse with cool water, and set aside to drain.
Cut the cantaloupe: Cut, seed, and dice the cantaloupe into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the kiwi: Peel, slice, and dice the kiwi into quarters.
Combine all fruits: Mix all the prepared fruits in a large bowl.
Serve or store: Gently mix the fruits together and serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Notes

For best results, use ripe but firm fruits for a perfect balance of flavors.
This fruit salad is versatile and can be customized with your favorite fruits.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad, Side Dish
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: International

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 120
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0.5g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Fruit Salad, Potluck Recipe, Easy Fruit Salad