Ensalada Navideña

Ensalada Navideña is a traditional Mexican Christmas fruit salad made with apples, pineapple, raisins, and nuts, all combined in a creamy, sweet mixture of condensed milk and media crema. Often served chilled during holiday gatherings, it’s a festive, refreshing, and simple dessert that perfectly complements rich holiday meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A classic holiday recipe loved across generations
• Creamy, fruity, and refreshing
• Quick to prepare and perfect for making ahead
• Easy to customize with your favorite fruits or nuts
• A light and sweet side dish or dessert

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Apples (red or golden), diced
• Canned pineapple chunks or tidbits (with some syrup)
• Raisins
• Walnuts or pecans, chopped
• Maraschino cherries (optional)
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Media crema (or sour cream/whipping cream as a substitute)
• Fresh lemon juice (to prevent apples from browning)

Directions

1. Prepare the fruit: Dice the apples and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning. Drain the canned pineapple, reserving a little syrup if desired.
2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and media crema until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine: Add the apples, pineapple, raisins, nuts, and cherries to the creamy mixture. Stir gently until all the fruit is evenly coated.
4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
5. Serve: Serve cold, garnished with extra chopped nuts or a few cherries on top if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• With marshmallows: Add mini marshmallows for a fun, kid-friendly twist
• Tropical version: Add shredded coconut and fresh mango or papaya
• Low-sugar version: Use unsweetened condensed milk alternative and fresh fruits
• Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a holiday flavor boost
• Yogurt-based: Swap media crema for Greek yogurt for a tangier version

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the texture of the fruits and dairy
• Reheating: Not applicable—serve this salad cold

FAQs

What is Ensalada Navideña?

It’s a creamy Mexican Christmas fruit salad traditionally served cold during the holidays.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made at least 30 minutes in advance so the flavors can blend.

What can I use instead of media crema?

You can use sour cream, crème fraîche, or heavy cream if media crema is unavailable.

Is this a dessert or a side dish?

It can be both! It’s commonly served as a light dessert after a big meal.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, but the syrup from canned pineapple adds a little extra sweetness.

How do I keep the apples from turning brown?

Toss them with lemon juice right after chopping.

Can I add bananas?

Yes, but add them just before serving to prevent them from browning.

Is this salad kid-friendly?

Absolutely—kids usually love the sweetness and creamy texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use coconut cream and sweetened condensed coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.

What kind of apples work best?

Crisp, sweet varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Golden Delicious are ideal.

Conclusion

Ensalada Navideña is a delicious and nostalgic addition to any holiday spread. Its creamy texture, sweet fruit, and satisfying crunch from nuts make it a beloved part of many Christmas traditions. Whether you’re bringing it to a holiday potluck or serving it at home, this refreshing salad is sure to brighten your table and please every palate.

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