One of my favorite things about summer is the fruit!  But by the end of the week I seem to always have a little of this and a little of that left in my fridge.  Rather than let it go to waste, I like to whip up a simple syrup and turn the leftover fruit into a Fruit Salad so delicious it can *almost* disguise as a dessert!

One day when we can get together in groups again (and it will happen!), it’s a great recipe to keep in mind for family reunions, potlucks, wedding receptions, retreats…. The Simple Syrup acts as a preservative and will keep the cut fruit fresh for hours in the fridge.  In fact, the flavor improves as it sits.  But don’t save it for later, enjoy it now.  It’s also really good for parties of one! You’re worth it ❤️

Simple Syrup

This syrup is exactly how it sounds – simple.  All you do it combine 2 parts sugar, with one part water in a small saucepan (in this case 1 cup sugar, with 1/2 cup water).  You can scale the recipe as big or small as you’d like, two parts sugar to one part sugar.

Boil this mixture until the sugar is dissolved and set aside for a few minutes to cool.

Pour the syrup over washed, fresh fruit and refrigerate the Fruit Salad until needed.  The unused Simple Syrup can also be stored, covered in the refrigerator, for up to 2 weeks.  It may need to be briefly heated in the microwave if it solidifies in the fridge.

The Fruit

Apples, grapes, and firm berries like strawberries and blueberries can be coated with simple syrup and stored in the fridge for up to 8 hours before serving.  But more fragile fruit like blackberries, raspberries, and sliced banana should be added to the fruit salad just before serving.

Throw everything inside this fruit salad and drizzle with simple syrup.  It’s saved the fruit from a slow death in my refrigerator more times than I can count.  Enjoy!

Fruit Salad with Simple Syrup

1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup water

Bring sugar and water to a simmer in small saucepan over medium heat and cook until sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes. Let cool briefly. Use right away or transfer syrup to airtight container and refrigerate until needed. If it solidifies some, heat briefly in the microwave until it turns into liquid again. This simple syrup will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Use with any combination of fruit. Apples, grapes, and firm berries like strawberries and blueberries can be coated with simple syrup and stored in the fridge for up to 8 hours before serving.  But more fragile fruit like blackberries, raspberries, and sliced banana should be added to the fruit salad just before serving.  Double or triple this recipe if you’re cooking for a large group.  Enjoy!!