Name: Cantaloupe, Plums, and Cherries with Mint and Vanilla
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 teaspoons sugar; 1 - 2 tablespoons minced fresh mint leaves; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 medium cantaloupe , rind and seeds removed, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 3 cups); 2 red plums (or black), about 5 ounces each, pitted and cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 2 cups); 8 ounces pitted, fresh cherries , halved (about 2 cups); 1 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (see note)

Why This Recipe Works

To create a fruit salad recipe with great fruit flavor, we had to rewrite a few rules. We found it hard to judge the proper amount of sugar when it was added directly to the salad, so we macerated each fruit in just the amount needed to release its natural juices; we balanced the sweetness with fresh lime juice. But first, we mashed the sugar with herbs and zests (in bartending circles, this process is called muddling) to ensure even flavor distribution in our ideal fruit salad recipe.

Before You Begin

Blueberries can be substituted for cherries. Because riper fruits require more acid to balance their sweetness, the lime juice should be added to taste. Start with 1 tablespoon, then add 1 teaspoon at a time as necessary.

Instructions

Combine sugar and mint in large bowl. Using rubber spatula, press mixture into side of bowl until sugar becomes damp, about 30 seconds; add vanilla. Gently toss fruit with sugar mixture until combined. Let stand at room temperature, stirring occasionally, until fruit releases its juices, 15 to 30 minutes. Stir in lime juice to taste and serve.