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Prep Time20 minutes
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Cook Time10 minutes
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Serving8
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Serv Size1/2 cup
We first discovered this fruit and pasta salad through our Filipino neighbors back when we were living in Saudi Arabia. I must’ve been around ten or eleven, and the very first time we had it was at a dinner party at their place, and it was unlike anything we’d tried before: sweet, fruity, slightly chewy, and wonderfully refreshing. Since my mom was always adventurous in the kitchen, she got the recipe from them that very night, and it soon became a regular feature at our table.
Traditionally, it’s made with canned fruit cocktail, especially the kind that includes kaong, or sugar palm fruit, which adds a lovely chewy texture. While kaong is hard to find here in Nagercoil, I’ve made a mental note to use nongu the next time I make it, since it’s quite similar. These days, we switch up the fruits depending on what’s in season, and always serve it chilled as a dessert. It’s one of those simple, joyful dishes that you just know is going to stick around once it’s made its way into your kitchen.
Ingredients
Fruit and Pasta Salad
Directions
This colorful, creamy salad comes together quickly once your ingredients are ready. It's all about mixing, chilling, and enjoying. A perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings or a quiet treat at home.
Cook the pasta: Follow the instructions on the packet to cook the macaroni—typically, boil in water for 10–12 minutes until al dente. Drain and let it cool.
Prepare the fruit mix: If you’re using canned fruit cocktail, drain the syrup and set the fruit aside. If you’re using fresh fruit, chop them into small, bite-sized pieces.
Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled macaroni with the fruits, grated carrots, raisins, nuts, shredded cheese, condensed milk, and fresh cream. Stir well to bring everything together.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. Serve cold.
Customize to your liking: Feel free to adjust the quantities of fruits, cream, or condensed milk to suit your taste. You can also experiment with different fruits or pasta shapes depending on what you have on hand.
Conclusion
This fruit and pasta salad is a beautiful blend of creamy, chewy, and crunchy. Sweet enough to be dessert, hearty enough to feel like a treat. It’s endlessly customizable, wonderfully nostalgic, and perfect for summer afternoons or special get-togethers. After your first chilled serving, don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to summer indulgence.
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