My niece Nikhita was in town for a couple of days and I was keen to get her to like this salad as she is not too fond of fruits.  The first time I made this salad I threw in the remaining fruit in my fruit bowl and was surprised at how well it went with the dressing.   A few tweaks later I’ve rechristened it Anna’s Surprise to dedicate it to my better half (surprised her and others with the combination).   Having served this to Nikhi I think I have succeeded in getting her to eat fruit beyond bananas as she appreciated the salad.

What do I need to make it?

• 1 big bag of mixed salad leaves
• 1 red apple
• 1 pear  (the firmer the better – gives a bit of a bite to the salad)
• 1 firm ripe mango
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/2 large cucumber de-seeded and cubed
• 1 large mozzarella ball cubed
• 5 artichoke hearts quartered (used the tinned variety)
• 6-8 sun dried tomatoes in oil chopped
• Handful of green and black olives
• Handful of pomegranate seeds (optional)
• 1-2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How much will I make?

Serves 4

How do I make?

Chop all the fruit, veg and cheese into bite size pieces.   Wash and drain the salad leaves and place in a large bowl.   Add the fruit, vegetables, cheese and olives and season with a bit of salt and pepper.  Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss gently.  Transfer into dishes and enjoy.