Looking for a vibrant, cozy, and delicious treat that truly captures the spirit of fall? This Autumn Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing is exactly what you need for your next gathering or a special weekday lunch. Brimming with crisp apples, sweet pears, juicy red grapes, crunchy pecans, and pops of tart dried cranberries, all enveloped in a creamy spiced Greek yogurt dressing, every bite feels like a celebration of the season. Whether you serve it at a holiday table or pack it as a snack, this recipe brings together the very best flavors autumn has to offer.

Autumn Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Autumn Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing lies in its simple but perfectly chosen ingredients. Each one adds flavor, color, or crunch — and together, they create a salad that’s irresistibly fresh and festive.

Apples: Pick your favorite crisp varieties for a juicy crunch and a sweet-tart flavor foundation.
Pears: Ripe but firm pears bring a delicate floral sweetness and silky texture.
Red grapes: Halved for easy eating, they add juiciness and a beautiful pop of color.
Vanilla Greek yogurt: The creamy, tangy base for the dressing, lending richness plus a touch of vanilla warmth.
Cinnamon: Infuses the salad with those unmistakable autumnal spice notes.
Nutmeg: Adds warmth and a subtle, cozy depth that perfectly complements the fruits.
Pecans: Chopped pecans deliver buttery crunch in every bite—don’t skip them!
Dried craisins (cranberries): Optional, but totally recommended for sweet-tart pops of chewy flavor and festive color.

How to Make Autumn Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing

Step 1: Chop All the Fruit

Start by dicing the apples and pears into bite-sized cubes. Slice the red grapes in half to help them absorb all that lovely dressing. This extra step not only makes the salad easier to eat, but ensures you get a taste of everything in each forkful.

Step 2: Assemble the Fruit Base

Place the diced apples, pears, and halved grapes in a large mixing bowl. Go ahead and toss in about half of your chopped pecans and dried cranberries (if you’re using them) — mixing some into the fruit means pops of crunch and sweetness throughout the salad.

Step 3: Mix the Greek Yogurt Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vanilla Greek yogurt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The creamy yogurt forms a luscious base while the spices infuse it with all those warm fall flavors, turning a simple salad into a seasonal masterpiece.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the spiced Greek yogurt dressing over the fruit and nut mixture. Gently fold everything together until all the fruit pieces are beautifully coated. Be careful not to mash the fruit — the idea is to keep every piece fresh and vibrant.

Step 5: Add Garnishes and Chill

Top your assembled Autumn Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing with the remaining pecans and cranberries. This produces a lovely visual contrast and extra texture. Serve right away for maximum crunch, or refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Autumn Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing

Garnishes

For a truly show-stopping finish, sprinkle your Autumn Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing with an extra pinch of cinnamon, a handful of toasted pecans, or a few pomegranate seeds for a sparkling touch. A little grating of fresh orange zest also amps up the aroma and elevates every bite.

Side Dishes

This salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing. Bring it alongside ham or roast turkey for holiday meals, serve next to a quiche at brunch, or simply enjoy with a slice of warm sourdough. It also holds its own as a stand-alone snack or light lunch.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests, try spooning the Autumn Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing into hollowed out apples, or serve in pretty individual cups for a personalized touch. You can also layer it in a trifle bowl or glass jars, showing off those vibrant colors in delicious stripes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad will retain its flavor, though the fruit may start to soften over time. A quick toss before serving helps refresh the salad.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for Autumn Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing, as the yogurt and fruits change texture after thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days of making.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If chilled, allow it to sit out for a few minutes before serving for maximum flavor and optimal texture.

FAQs

Can I use different fruits in this salad?

Absolutely! Autumn Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing is easily customizable. Swap in whatever’s crisp and in season—think sliced persimmons, fresh figs, or even diced kiwi for a colorful twist.

What type of apples are best?

Go for apples that are crunchy and not too sweet, like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. Combining a tart apple and a sweet one is another fun way to add depth of flavor.

Is there a vegan alternative for the dressing?

You can substitute coconut or almond milk yogurt and add a touch of plant-based vanilla extract to keep the salad dairy-free and vegan-friendly while maintaining creaminess.

How can I make this nut-free?

Omit the pecans if you have nut allergies; sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are a wonderful alternative for added crunch without the nuts.

Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, whipping up the Greek yogurt dressing a day in advance is a smart move—it allows the spices to fully infuse, making your Autumn Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing even more flavorful when you’re ready to assemble.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way this Autumn Fruit Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing brightens any table and satisfies every craving for cozy, fresh flavors. I hope you’ll give it a try—whether for a festive feast or a simple treat for yourself, it’s a celebration of everything we love about fall.