Grape salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the sweetness of grapes with a creamy dressing, making it a perfect side dish or dessert. This recipe is not only easy to make but also a hit with both kids and adults alike. Here’s how to create this yummy family favorite:
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 pounds green grapes, seedless (rinsed and dried)
- 2 pounds red grapes, seedless (rinsed and dried)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Pecans (optional, for added crunch)
Instructions
- Prepare the Creamy Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese and sour cream. Beat until smooth and well combined.
- Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract to the mixture. Continue to beat until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Combine the Grapes:
- Add the rinsed and dried green and red grapes to the bowl with the creamy dressing. Gently fold the grapes into the mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Topping:
- Transfer the grape mixture to a serving dish. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the grape salad.
- If desired, add a sprinkle of pecans on top for added texture and flavor.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
Tips for Making
- Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature to ensure it blends smoothly with the sour cream.
- Grapes: Dry the grapes thoroughly after rinsing to prevent the dressing from becoming watery.
- Pecans: Toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the salad to enhance their flavor.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Add the brown sugar and pecans just before serving to maintain their crunch.
Why You’ll Love It
- Kid-Approved: The sweet and creamy combination of grapes and dressing is a hit with children.
- Refreshing: Perfect for hot days, this chilled salad is a cool and satisfying treat.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses common ingredients that are easy to find and prepare.
- Versatile: Can be served as a side dish, dessert, or even a snack.
- Customizable: Add nuts or other fruits to make it your own.
- Quick to Prepare: Takes just minutes to assemble, making it ideal for busy days.
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and sugar creates a deliciously sweet and tangy dressing.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by all ages, making it a great dish for gatherings and potlucks.
- Make Ahead: Can be prepared in advance, saving you time on the day of serving.
- Healthy Twist: Packed with fresh grapes, this salad offers vitamins and antioxidants.
How to Store
- Refrigeration: Store the grape salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adding Toppings: If making ahead, wait to add the brown sugar and pecans until just before serving to keep them from becoming soggy.
Enjoy this delicious and creamy grape salad, a true family favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your home
