Spiced Cherry Salad

Quick Summary

This refreshing Spiced Cherry Salad combines Traverse Bay Farms Dried Tart Cherries with mandarin oranges, kiwi, and a hint of cinnamon. Lightly sweetened with orange juice and confectioners’ sugar, it’s a tangy, colorful dish that’s perfect for brunch, holidays, or light meals.

Published: October 2010 | Updated: October 2025

Chef’s Note

If you’ve never added cherries to a fruit salad before, you’re in for a treat. The natural tartness of Traverse Bay Farms Dried Tart Cherries adds a depth of flavor that balances the sweetness of citrus and kiwi. It’s quick to prepare, beautiful to serve, and deliciously different.

Prep & Yield

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 1 cup Traverse Bay Farms Dried Tart Cherries

• 1 (11-ounce) can mandarin orange sections, drained

• 2 kiwi, peeled and sliced

• 1/4 cup orange juice

• 1/4 cup sifted confectioners’ sugar

• 1/2 ounce Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate

• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit: In a medium salad bowl, combine dried cherries, mandarin orange sections, and kiwi slices.

2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, confectioners’ sugar, cherry juice concentrate, and cinnamon until smooth.

3. Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the fruit mixture; toss gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.

4. Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle toasted almonds over the top for added crunch and flavor.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Add Greens: Toss with spinach or baby kale for a beautiful cherry-citrus salad.

• Make It a Dessert: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt.

• Holiday Touch: Add pomegranate arils or cranberries for festive color.

• Nationally Award-Winning Salad Dressing: Pour over Traverse Bay Farms Cherry Poppy Seed Dressing for an added cherry flair.

Nutritional Highlight

Tart cherries and kiwi are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, while almonds add healthy fats and a satisfying crunch. This salad is naturally gluten-free and packed with flavor and nutrients.

Behind the Recipe

Traverse Bay Farms Dried Tart Cherries are made using Michigan-grown dried cherries—never imported. Backed by 38+ national food awards and a sediment-free guarantee, our tart cherry juice and dried cherries deliver quality, freshness, and natural sweetness to every recipe.

People Also Ask

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
You can, but dried cherries add a more concentrated, tangy flavor that balances the citrus.

Can I prepare this a day ahead?
Yes, but add the toasted almonds right before serving to keep them crisp.

What can I serve this with?
Pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or holiday ham.

Can I replace the confectioners’ sugar?
Honey or agave syrup works well as a natural sweetener alternative.

Bring the Taste Home

Enjoy the bright, balanced flavor of Traverse Bay Farms Dried Tart Cherries and Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate in this easy, make-ahead salad—perfect for healthy entertaining, brunch, or family dinners.