Refreshing Italian Pasta Fruit Delight
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Refreshing Italian Pasta Fruit Delight, a delightful twist on traditional fruit salad. Bursting with the sweetness of tropical fruits and the creamy texture of Cool Whip, this dish is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a refreshing treat on warm days. The addition of acini di pepe pasta provides a unique twist, while the homemade fruit syrup made from the juice of canned fruits adds a luscious depth of flavor. This easy-to-make dessert recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a favorite in any home. Enjoy it chilled for a truly refreshing experience!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Acini di pepe pasta
3/4 cup (Cooked according to package directions)
Pineapple chunks
20 ounce can (Drained)
Mandarin oranges
11 ounce can (Drained)
Cool Whip
12 ounce container (Thawed)
Sugar
3/4 cup (Granulated)
Eggs
2 (Slightly beaten)
Cornstarch
2 tablespoons (Unprepared)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (Freshly squeezed)
Instructions
1
Begin by cooking the acini di pepe pasta according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
2
Next, drain the juice from the canned pineapple and mandarin oranges into a medium saucepan. Combine this juice with sugar, slightly beaten eggs, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
3
Cook the mixture over low to medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a syrupy consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled acini di pepe pasta with the thickened syrup. Stir gently until the pasta is well coated.
5
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
6
Once chilled, fold in the drained pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, and Cool Whip. Gently mix until evenly combined.
7
Serve immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to serve. This delightful fruit salad is best enjoyed cold!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Refreshing Italian Pasta Fruit Delight?
It is a vibrant dessert salad that combines acini di pepe pasta with tropical fruits and a creamy Cool Whip topping, tied together with a homemade fruit syrup.
What specific type of pasta is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses acini di pepe pasta, which are small, bead-like pasta shapes that provide a unique texture.
How much acini di pepe pasta do I need?
You will need 3/4 cup of dry acini di pepe pasta.
Can I substitute the acini di pepe with another pasta?
While acini di pepe is traditional for this dish, you can use orzo as a substitute, though the texture will differ slightly.
Which fruits are included in this salad?
The salad features canned pineapple chunks and mandarin oranges.
What size cans of fruit should I buy?
You need a 20-ounce can of pineapple chunks and an 11-ounce can of mandarin oranges.
Do I discard the fruit juice?
No, do not discard the juice. The drained juice from the pineapple and mandarin oranges is used to create the fruit syrup.
How do I make the fruit syrup?
Combine the fruit juices with sugar, beaten eggs, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan and cook until thickened.
How many eggs are required for the syrup?
The recipe calls for 2 slightly beaten eggs.
What is the purpose of the cornstarch in the syrup?
The 2 tablespoons of cornstarch act as a thickening agent to give the syrup a luscious consistency.
How long does it take to thicken the syrup?
It typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes of constant stirring over low to medium heat for the syrup to thicken.
Should the pasta be rinsed after boiling?
Yes, you should drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and prevent it from sticking.
When do I mix the pasta with the syrup?
Once the syrup has thickened and cooled slightly, stir it into the cooked and rinsed pasta until well coated.
How long does the salad need to refrigerate before adding fruit?
The pasta and syrup mixture should be covered and refrigerated for about 2 hours.
When is the Cool Whip added?
Fold in the thawed Cool Whip after the pasta and syrup mixture has been chilled for 2 hours.
Can I use fresh lemon juice?
Yes, the recipe suggests 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
What type of sugar is best for the syrup?
Use 3/4 cup of granulated white sugar for the syrup.
Is this dish served warm or cold?
This dish is a refreshing treat that is best enjoyed cold.
Can I add extra fruit like cherries?
Yes, adding maraschino cherries or grapes is a common way to customize this recipe.
How do I prevent the eggs from curdling in the syrup?
Stir the mixture constantly over low to medium heat to ensure the eggs incorporate smoothly into the syrup.
Can I use a sugar substitute?
You can use a granulated sugar substitute, but it may slightly alter the thickness and taste of the syrup.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, it is an excellent party food that is popular at picnics, family gatherings, and summer potlucks.
What makes this an 'Italian' delight?
The name comes from the use of acini di pepe, a traditional Italian pasta variety used in this sweet dessert context.
How should I store the leftovers?
Store any remaining salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long will this salad stay fresh?
It is best when eaten within 2 to 3 days, as the pasta will continue to absorb moisture over time.
Can I use pineapple tidbits instead of chunks?
Yes, pineapple tidbits or even crushed pineapple can be used if you prefer smaller fruit pieces.
Is this recipe easy to follow for beginners?
Yes, it is a very easy-to-make dessert that requires basic cooking skills like boiling pasta and stirring syrup.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Certainly, you can easily double all the ingredients to accommodate more guests.
Should the Cool Whip be frozen or thawed?
The Cool Whip should be thawed before you fold it into the chilled pasta and fruit mixture.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
Yes, lime juice can be used as a substitute if you prefer a different citrus note.