This delightful fruit salad has been a staple in our family for as long as I can remember. It’s a recipe that my mother and my late mother-in-law both made for holiday meals. Simple yet delicious, it has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite.

A Classic Recipe

The key to this fruit salad is the instant pudding. The original recipe called for vanilla pudding, but I like to use instant lemon pudding for a zesty twist. Feel free to use either one – they both work! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 (20 oz.) can of pineapple tidbits or chunks in juice (do not drain)
• 1 (3.4 oz.) instant lemon pudding mix (can use vanilla)
• 2 (15 oz.) cans of good fruit cocktail, drained
• 3-4 bananas, sliced
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, drained and sliced in half

Easy Preparation

Begin by combining the pineapple tidbits and the pudding mix until the pudding has dissolved. Then, add in the drained fruit cocktail and the sliced bananas. For the best results, I recommend using a good brand of fruit cocktail, like Del Monte.

Place the mixture in a pretty salad bowl and sprinkle the cherry halves over the top. Chill for about an hour before serving. It’s as easy as that!

Versatile and Delicious

This fruit salad is not only perfect for holiday meals, but also great for a refreshing brunch or luncheon. You can get creative with the ingredients too! In the past, my family has used fresh fruit like grapes, bananas, apples, oranges or tangerines, and even coconut. You can customize it to your liking.

Tips and Variations

• If you’re concerned about the bananas turning dark quickly, using lemon pudding can help maintain their freshness.
• If you’re not a fan of cherries, feel free to omit them. It won’t ruin the fruit salad.
• Feel free to experiment with different flavors of pudding mix. White chocolate or banana pudding adds a unique twist.
• Consider adding additional ingredients like cream cheese, homemade whipped cream, or coconut for extra flavor.

Next time you’re in need of a delicious and easy-to-make fruit salad, give this Holiday Fruit Salad a try. It’s a classic recipe that is sure to bring back memories and please the whole family. Enjoy it during the holidays or any time of year!