Linda CainAs a food enthusiast and registered dietitian, I find great joy in exploring culinary delights that carry a sense of elegance and simplicity. One such delightful treasure is the Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad.
It’s a dish that has captured hearts at summer gatherings and upscale brunches alike. Imagine a mix of fresh and vibrant fruits, all brought together with a sweet and tangy dressing—a perfect blend that leaves your tastebuds singing.
Let me take you on a journey of discovery. We will dive deep into the roots of this delightful recipe, explore its ingredients, and I’ll share my personal tips that have made this dish a hit in my kitchen.
Get ready to taste the magic of Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad!
What is Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad?
The Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad originated from the famous Neiman Marcus department store founded in 1907 in Dallas, Texas. It quickly became known for its luxurious feel and high-end offerings.
Among the many culinary delights served at their café, the Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad stands out as a favorite. This salad uses an assortment of fresh fruits, highlighted with a delightful poppy seed dressing. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience.
The combination of textures and flavors makes it appealing not just visually but also palatably.
Why You’ll Love This Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad
What makes this fruit salad irresistible?
For starters, it’s the ease of preparation. You can whip this up quickly, which is perfect for those busy days when you want to serve something that feels a bit special. The medley of fruits is refreshing, making it a fantastic option for warm weather.
Moreover, the dressing enhances the fruits without overpowering them. The sweetness from the sugar in the dressing pairs perfectly with the natural sugars found in the fruit. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds!
The Ingredients
Before we roll up our sleeves, let’s take a look at the ingredients that make this dish shine.
For the Poppy Seed Dressing
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 tablespoon finely grated onion, including its juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 6 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 cup safflower or sunflower oil
- 1-1/2 tablespoons poppy seeds
For the Fruit Salad
- 1 small red apple, diced
- 4 ripe cantaloupes, peeled and diced
- 1 honeydew melon, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 3 fresh purple figs, quartered
- 12 fresh blackberries
- 6 black cherries, pitted
- 2 tablespoons pomegranate arils, for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, chopped
This impressive lineup of ingredients ensures that every bite of your fruit salad is bursting with flavor and color.
Step by Step Instructions
Let’s get started! Here’s a detailed guide to making the Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad:
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Begin by washing all the fruits. This step is crucial, especially since you want everything to be as fresh as possible.
- Dice the apple into bite-sized pieces. A sharp knife makes this easier, and keep the skin on—it adds color and nutrients.
- Peel and dice the cantaloup. Use a sharp knife, and remove any seeds.
- Cube the honeydew melon in a similar fashion to the cantaloupe. The contrasting flavors will add depth to the salad.
- Quarter the figs. They add a rich sweetness that’s hard to beat.
- Pit and halve the cherries. Remove any stems for presentation and ease of eating.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients.
- Start with the coarse sea salt, granulated sugar, mustard powder, grated onion (with juice), lemon juice, and white wine vinegar. Whisk them together until smooth.
- Slowly add the safflower or sunflower oil while continuing to whisk. This will help emulsify the dressing, creating a creamy texture.
- Stir in the poppy seeds and give it one last whisk for good measure.
Step 3: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, gently mix all the prepared fruit.
- Pour your homemade poppy seed dressing over the fruits. Be generous—you want every piece of fruit coated in that sweet dressing.
- Use a spatula or large spoon to toss the mixture lightly. Avoid crushing the fruits; you want them to remain intact.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle with pomegranate arils and chopped mint leaves. These not only add flavor but also make your fruit salad look stunning.
- Serve immediately or chill it for about an hour for a refreshing treat.
Tips & Tricks
Here are some handy tips to elevate your Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad game:
- Use Fresh Fruit: Always choose fruits that are in season for the best flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the dressing in advance to save time. Just mix it with the fruit right before serving.
- Keep it Chilled: If serving at a gathering, keep the salad on ice. This preserves freshness and makes for a delightful experience.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the ripeness of your fruit, you might want to tweak the sugar levels in the dressing.
- Explore Alternatives: Feel free to swap out fruits based on your preferences. The dish is incredibly versatile!
Can I Store Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad?
Absolutely! However, it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you must store it, cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 24 hours.
However, keep in mind that the fruit may start to release juices, which can affect texture. For optimal taste and texture, serve it shortly after preparation.
What Can I Serve with Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad?
This fruit salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside:
- Grilled chicken or fish for a fresh and healthy meal.
- Pancakes or waffles at brunch for a delightful contrast.
- Quiche or frittata for a satisfying breakfast or lunch spread.
- Bread items like croissants or muffins as part of a brunch buffet.
- As a light dessert option after a heavy meal.
Variations
Get creative! Here are some exciting variations of the Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad:
- Tropical Twist: Add pineapple, mango, and kiwi to bring a tropical flair.
- Berry Medley: Swap out some fruits for strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a berry explosion.
- Nutty Delight: Toss in sliced almonds or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.
- Yogurt Parfait Style: Layer the fruit salad with yogurt to create a refreshing parfait.
- Citrus Burst: Include oranges or grapefruit segments for a tangy twist.
Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Medium bowl
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 tablespoon finely grated onion including its juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 6 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 cup safflower or sunflower oil
- 1-1/2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 small red apple diced
- 4 ripe cantaloupes peeled and diced
- 1 honeydew melon peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 3 fresh purple figs quartered
- 12 fresh blackberries
- 6 black cherries pitted
- 2 tablespoons pomegranate arils for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves chopped
Instructions
- Begin by washing all the fruits. This step is crucial, especially since you want everything to be as fresh as possible.
- Dice the apple into bite-sized pieces. A sharp knife makes this easier, and keep the skin on—it adds color and nutrients.
- Peel and dice the cantaloup. Use a sharp knife, and remove any seeds.
- Cube the honeydew melon in a similar fashion to the cantaloupe. The contrasting flavors will add depth to the salad.
- Quarter the figs. They add a rich sweetness that’s hard to beat.
- Pit and halve the cherries. Remove any stems for presentation and ease of eating.
- In a medium bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients.
- Start with the coarse sea salt, granulated sugar, mustard powder, grated onion (with juice), lemon juice, and white wine vinegar. Whisk them together until smooth.
- Slowly add the safflower or sunflower oil while continuing to whisk. This will help emulsify the dressing, creating a creamy texture.
- Stir in the poppy seeds and give it one last whisk for good measure.
- In a large bowl, gently mix all the prepared fruit.
- Pour your homemade poppy seed dressing over the fruits. Be generous—you want every piece of fruit coated in that sweet dressing.
- Use a spatula or large spoon to toss the mixture lightly. Avoid crushing the fruits; you want them to remain intact.
- Before serving, sprinkle with pomegranate arils and chopped mint leaves. These not only add flavor but also make your fruit salad look stunning.
- Serve immediately or chill it for about an hour for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The Neiman Marcus Fruit Salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of freshness, flavor, and creativity.
Through this simple recipe, you can elevate your gatherings, impress your guests, and offer them a taste of something delightful. As a food blogger, I firmly believe that cooking should bring joy, not stress.
Now that you have the tools and knowledge at your fingertips, go ahead and make this fruit salad that resonates with elegance and simplicity. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you. Happy cooking!
