
Creamy Fruit Custard Salad
Ingredients:
For Custard Base:
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons custard powder (vanilla or mango flavor)
- 3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, enhances flavor)
Fresh Fruits (chopped/sliced):
- 2 bananas (sliced)
- 1 cup strawberries (halved)
- 1 cup green grapes (whole or halved)
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments
- 1 apple (peeled & diced, optional)
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (optional)
- 1 kiwi (optional, peeled & sliced)
For Garnish:
- Few mint leaves
- Extra banana and strawberry slices
- Additional orange segments or grapes
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Custard
- In a small bowl, mix custard powder with 1/4 cup cold milk to form a smooth paste.
- In a saucepan, bring 1 3/4 cups milk to a gentle boil. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
- Slowly whisk in the custard paste, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook on low heat until the custard thickens (about 5–7 minutes). It should coat the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat, add vanilla extract (if using), and let it cool completely. Chill in the fridge.
Step 2: Prep the Fruits
- Wash and slice all fruits just before mixing (to avoid browning).
- If using apples or bananas, toss them in a little lemon juice to prevent oxidation.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl or trifle dish, add a layer of chilled custard.
- Add a layer of fruits — strawberries, grapes, oranges, bananas, etc.
- Repeat layers, finishing with fruits on top for decoration.
- Garnish with mint leaves and extra fruit slices.
Chill Time:
- Refrigerate the entire salad for at least 1–2 hours before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Benefits:
- Vitamin-packed from fresh fruits.
- Cooling and hydrating for summer.
- Customizable: Use any seasonal fruit.
- Kid-friendly and festive!
Notes:
- You can use store-bought vanilla pudding instead of homemade custard for a shortcut.
- Add whipped cream or condensed milk for extra richness.
- Avoid fruits that release too much water (like watermelon) unless serving immediately.