Hello, food lovers! If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare, refreshingly sweet, and perfect for any occasion, this Trisha Yearwood’s Creamy Grape Salad is just what you need. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, potluck, or family dinner, this dish is sure to impress. With juicy grapes coated in a creamy dressing and topped with crunchy pecans and brown sugar, it’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Introduction
Trisha Yearwood’s Creamy Grape Salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. This Southern-inspired recipe combines the sweetness of grapes with a creamy, tangy dressing and a nutty topping for added crunch. The balance of flavors makes it an excellent choice for a dessert, snack, or side dish. This salad is versatile enough to fit into any menu, and it always leaves a lasting impression on your guests.
Ingredients
To create this delicious Creamy Grape Salad, you’ll need:
- 2 pounds seedless green grapes
- 2 pounds seedless purple grapes
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 (8 oz.) container sour cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
Feel free to experiment with different grape varieties or nut substitutes like walnuts or almonds if preferred.
How to Make Trisha Yearwood’s Creamy Grape Salad
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delightful salad:
- Prepare the Grapes: Begin by washing and drying the grapes thoroughly. Remove any stems or imperfections to ensure the best presentation and taste.
- Make the Creamy Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Coat the Grapes: Add the washed and dried grapes to the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold the grapes into the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated without breaking them.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate small bowl, mix the brown sugar and finely chopped pecans. This topping adds a sweet and nutty crunch that complements the creamy grapes.
- Assemble the Salad: Sprinkle the brown sugar and pecan mixture evenly over the coated grapes. Use a spatula to gently fold the mixture, ensuring the topping is well distributed throughout the salad.
- Chill the Salad: Transfer the salad to a serving dish or bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill. This step enhances the overall taste and texture.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the salad chilled and enjoy the refreshing, creamy, and crunchy goodness with family and friends.
Helpful Tips
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother dressing that’s easier to mix. Cold cream cheese can result in a lumpy texture.
- Dry the grapes thoroughly after washing to ensure the dressing adheres properly to them. Excess moisture can dilute the flavor.
- For a healthier version, swap out some of the sour cream or cream cheese for Greek yogurt. This adjustment adds protein while maintaining creaminess.
Cooking Tips
- To save time, prepare the dressing and grape mixture ahead of time, but add the brown sugar and pecans just before serving to keep the topping crunchy.
- Toast the pecans before chopping them for a richer, nuttier flavor that enhances the overall taste of the salad.
- If you’re serving this dish for a larger crowd, simply double the recipe and use a larger serving bowl.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy grape salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a refreshing side dish at barbecues, potlucks, or family gatherings. It also works beautifully as a light dessert after a hearty meal. Garnish with a few whole grapes and a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans for a decorative touch that elevates the presentation.
Pair this salad with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or classic Southern dishes like fried chicken or pulled pork for a harmonious meal. The salad’s sweetness balances savory flavors beautifully.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an overview of the nutritional profile of this Creamy Grape Salad:
- Calories: 280
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Potassium: 290mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 32g
- Vitamin A: 8%
- Vitamin C: 10%
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 4%
This dish provides a delightful combination of sweet and creamy flavors while being relatively low in sodium and packed with vitamins.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed properly to maintain freshness.
Avoid Freezing: Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the creamy dressing may separate, and the grapes could become mushy when thawed.
Replenish the Topping: If the brown sugar and pecans lose their crunch after refrigeration, simply sprinkle fresh topping over the salad before serving again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use only one type of grape?
Yes, using just green or purple grapes is perfectly fine. The mix of both adds color and variety, but the flavor will still be delightful with one type.
Can I make this salad nut-free?
Absolutely. Omit the pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds or crushed pretzels for a nut-free option with added crunch.
Is there a way to make it lighter?
For a lighter version, replace some of the cream cheese or sour cream with plain Greek yogurt. You can also reduce the amount of sugar used in the dressing.
Related Recipes
If you loved this dish, you might enjoy these other recipes:
- Southern Ambrosia Salad
- Classic Waldorf Salad
- Fresh Berry Yogurt Parfait
- Fruit and Nut Salad with Citrus Dressing
Conclusion
Trisha Yearwood’s Creamy Grape Salad is a delightful addition to any occasion, offering a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and crunchy flavors. Its simplicity, versatility, and refreshing taste make it a standout dish that’s sure to please everyone. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones. We’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you’ve tried. Enjoy every bite of this Southern classic!