Quick & Vibrant Orange-Inspired Fruit Salad: A Delightful Recipe Supporting Cancer Research
In life, we often find ourselves responding to calls for help. Whether it’s supporting our children, assisting at school, helping a colleague at work, comforting a sick friend, or simply being a pillar for a family member, these moments define our connections. Recently, my dear friend Justine, from Full Belly Sisters, reached out with a significant request: to help raise awareness for cancer research through Cycle For Survival. This incredible benefit aims to fund groundbreaking research for rare types of cancers, touching countless lives. The thought of those we know who are battling or have battled cancer fills us with profound sadness, making Justine’s appeal deeply resonate. When she asked for my support, my answer was an immediate and resounding “ALL IN.”
#OrangeInspiration: Fueling Hope Through Flavor
Let’s delve a little deeper into the mission of Cycle For Survival. Founded in 2007, this powerful movement has already amassed over $61 million. These funds aren’t just numbers; they directly finance critical clinical trials and research studies, offering new hope to innumerable individuals affected by rare cancers. It’s a stark reality that more than 50% of people diagnosed with cancer are fighting rare forms, including devastating conditions like brain, pancreatic, cervical, stomach, thyroid, and ovarian cancers, as well as all pediatric cancers. These specific types of cancers often struggle to attract the necessary research funding for innovative therapies and treatments, leaving patients with tragically limited options.
Cycle for Survival has made an indelible impact, contributing to more than 100 clinical trials and research studies. Beyond that, their efforts support major research initiatives that are fundamentally transforming how cancer is diagnosed and treated today. At the heart of this research is Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), the world’s oldest and largest private cancer center. MSKCC is deeply committed to providing unparalleled research and care for individuals diagnosed with rare cancers. Their unique strength lies in the close collaboration between doctors and researchers, a dynamic partnership that allows new drugs and therapies developed in the lab to be swiftly moved to patients’ bedsides, making a tangible difference when time is of the essence.
The Power of Orange: A Delicious Connection to a Cause
To further amplify the message and spirit of Cycle for Survival, Justine enlisted a few of her food blogger friends, myself included, to create recipes featuring orange-colored foods during the week leading up to her bike ride. Orange isn’t just a cheerful color; it’s the official hue for Cycle for Survival, symbolizing vitality and hope. This initiative also highlights the remarkable benefits of orange foods. Beyond their gorgeous appearance and delicious taste, these vibrant edibles are packed with antioxidants, essential vitamins, fiber, and phytonutrients. They are incredibly beneficial for your skin, eyes, and heart health, and studies suggest they may even play a role in decreasing your risk of certain cancers. What better way to show support than to embrace this powerful color in our kitchens?
So, in tribute to this inspiring cause and the vibrant symbolism of orange, I am thrilled to share my Easy Fruit Salad. It’s bursting with citrus flavors, incredibly simple to prepare, and a wonderful way to bring a little sunshine and healthful goodness to your table. I genuinely hope you enjoy it!
The Easiest “Dump Fruit Salad”: Perfect for Any Occasion
Just last week, another call to help came from our church, which needed salads for an upcoming event. Since it was a Friday during Lent, and noodle casseroles were already on the menu, they specifically requested no pasta salads. A refreshing fruit salad immediately came to mind as the perfect alternative. Given the rush of time, I settled on this particular recipe. It’s a true lifesaver because it comes together so incredibly quickly. The name “dump fruit salad” is quite literal – you simply combine everything and stir! It’s an ideal dish when you need something delicious, impressive, and fast.
While this recipe traditionally uses canned fruits for ultimate convenience, it can absolutely be elevated by incorporating fresh fruits. Imagine the vibrant colors and textures of fresh peaches, sweet mandarin segments, and juicy pineapple chunks! The secret, however, truly lies in the luscious “sauce” that brings it all together. I must confess, this creamy vanilla-orange concoction is so good, I could honestly eat it by itself! My children adore this fruit salad, and at every potluck or gathering, it vanishes in a flash. It’s a testament to its irresistible flavor and delightful texture. This salad is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for brunches, picnics, holidays, or a simple family dessert.
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Print Recipe
Easy Fruit Salad #OrangeInspiration
Ingredients
- For the irresistible “sauce”:
- 2 cups Orange Juice (preferably pulp-free for a smoother consistency)
- 5.1 ounce Instant Vanilla Pudding (a large box, not cook & serve)
- 16 ounces sour cream (full-fat for richness, or light for a healthier option)
- For the vibrant Fruit Salad:
- 2 – 13 oz cans Peaches cut into chunks (drained thoroughly)
- 3 – 13 oz cans Mandarin Oranges (drained thoroughly)
- 2 – 20 oz cans Pineapple chunk style (drained thoroughly)
- 3 small bananas sliced (add just before serving to prevent browning)
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, orange juice, and instant vanilla pudding mix. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps. This creates your magical “sauce.” Set it aside.
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Thoroughly drain all the juice from your cans of peaches, mandarin oranges, and pineapple chunks. It’s crucial to remove as much liquid as possible to prevent the salad from becoming watery. Once drained, “dump” all the canned fruits into a very large serving bowl. Add the sliced bananas to the bowl.
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Pour the prepared vanilla-orange “sauce” over the fruit mixture. Gently fold everything together with a spatula or large spoon, ensuring all the fruit is evenly coated in the creamy, flavorful sauce.
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**Notes and Variations:** This recipe is incredibly adaptable! Feel free to add any other canned or fresh fruits you desire – pears, mangoes, grapes, or even berries. Just make sure to drain canned fruits well. If using fresh fruits, ensure they are ripe and cut into bite-sized pieces. For an extra touch of sweetness, a sprinkle of shredded coconut or a handful of miniature marshmallows can be added. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy this delightful, easy-to-make fruit salad that’s perfect for any gathering!
Nutrition
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~Here is my wonderful friend, Justine, (on the right) alongside a couple of her dedicated cycling buddies, embodying the spirit of Cycle for Survival.~
A heartfelt note directly from Justine, who will be cycling this Saturday in New York City, sharing more about the impact of your support:
“Every single donation made is fully tax-deductible, and critically, 100% of the funds contributed for my ride will go directly to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC). These contributions directly support patients not just locally, but around the world, making a profound difference in their lives. For the past two years, my team has ridden with a deep sense of purpose, honoring the memory of loved ones or standing in solidarity with those currently battling cancer by writing their names on our arms as we cycle. If you choose to make a donation and would like me to ride in honor or memory of someone special to you, please send me their name. It would be my immense privilege to carry their name with me during the event. Remember, no donation is ever too small—every single dollar, every single act of kindness, truly counts and makes a tangible impact in the fight against rare cancers!”
Join the Movement: Donate and Discover More Orange Inspiration
Please consider making a tax-deductible gift today and become a part of this vital cause:
I Want to DONATE to Justine’s TEAM
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Orange you excited to explore all the delicious and inspiring orange-themed recipes created by fellow bloggers participating in this incredible awareness campaign? Their culinary contributions are a testament to the power of food bringing people together for a greater good. Discover more vibrant creations and support the cause:
- Sumptuous Spoonfuls
- Something About Cupcakes
- Ally’s Kitchen
- Life Currents
- The Fountain Avenue Kitchen
- Who Moved My Coconut Oil
- What’s Cookin’ Italian Cuisine
This recipe was lovingly adapted from a creation found at Fox Hollow Cottage, demonstrating how great ideas can inspire and spread across the culinary community.