That’s It

If you love a crunchy salad but want to cut back on processed bread-based croutons, it's time to think outside the box—or rather, outside the crouton bag. Fruit Crunchables, the crispy, freeze-dried fruit snacks from That's It, offer a surprisingly delicious and healthy alternative. They add the same satisfying crunch without the extra calories, refined carbs, or artificial ingredients.

In this guide, we'll explore how to use fruit crunchables as a salad topper, why they work so well, and which varieties pair best with different salad styles. Whether you're a health enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to jazz up your lunch, this simple swap will transform your salad game.

Why Fruit Crunchables Are the Perfect Crouton Replacement

Traditional croutons are made from bread, oil, and seasonings, often packing in empty calories and sodium. Fruit Crunchables, on the other hand, are made from 100% real fruit that's been freeze-dried to a light, crispy texture. They contain no added sugars, preservatives, or artificial flavors, making them a whole-food alternative that adds natural sweetness and a burst of fruit flavor.

The crunch factor is key. Just like croutons, fruit crunchables provide that satisfying snap when you bite into them. But instead of a bland bread taste, you get the pure essence of apples, cinnamon, or berries. This works especially well with savory salads, where a hint of sweetness can balance tangy vinaigrettes or salty cheeses. Plus, they're gluten-free and vegan, so they suit nearly every dietary preference.

• Zero added sugar and no artificial ingredients
• Gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO
• Adds natural fruit fiber and vitamins like vitamin C
• Lightweight and shelf-stable—perfect for meal prep

Best Fruit Crunchables Varieties for Salads

Not all fruit crunchables are created equal when it comes to salad pairings. For a classic sweet-savory combo, try Apple + Cinnamon Crisps Fruit Crunchables. The cinnamon notes complement roasted vegetables, goat cheese, or a maple-mustard dressing. If you prefer a more neutral fruit flavor that won't overpower your greens, plain Apple Crisps Fruit Crunchables are a versatile choice. They work with everything from Caesar salads to Mediterranean bowls.

For a tangier twist, consider a mix of apple and berry varieties. The Fruit Crunchables Apple Crisps Variety Pack gives you multiple flavors in one box, so you can experiment. For larger batches or family meals, the Apple + Cinnamon Crisps Fruit Crunchables Bundle Box (30 Packs) is a great value. Each pack is portion-controlled, making it easy to sprinkle a serving onto your salad without any mess.

• Apple + Cinnamon Crisps pair well with spinach, walnuts, and blue cheese
• Plain Apple Crisps are perfect with arugula, parmesan, and lemon vinaigrette
• Mix varieties for a colorful, flavor-packed salad topper

How to Build a Salad with Fruit Crunchables: Step-by-Step

Building a salad with fruit crunchables is as simple as swapping them in for croutons. Start with a base of fresh greens like mixed baby greens, spinach, or arugula. Add your favorite protein—grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu—and a handful of crunchy vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers. Then, instead of croutons, sprinkle a generous handful of fruit crunchables over the top.

For a balanced dressing, choose something with acidity or creaminess to offset the fruit's sweetness. A balsamic vinaigrette, lemon-tahini dressing, or yogurt-based ranch works beautifully. Toss gently just before serving to keep the crunchables crisp. You can also crush them lightly and use as a topping for grain bowls or even as a crust for baked chicken.

• Add fruit crunchables at the very end to maintain crunch
• Crush them for a finer topping similar to breadcrumbs
• Pair with creamy dressings for a sweet-and-savory balance

Nutritional Comparison: Croutons vs. Fruit Crunchables

When you swap croutons for fruit crunchables, you're not just changing flavor—you're upgrading nutrition. A typical 1-ounce serving of croutons contains around 120 calories, 4 grams of fat, and 200 milligrams of sodium, with little to no fiber or vitamins. In contrast, a 1-ounce serving of fruit crunchables (about one pack) has roughly 50–60 calories, 0 grams of fat, and 3–4 grams of natural fiber, plus vitamin C from the fruit.

This swap also eliminates refined grains and added oils, making your salad lighter but still satisfying. For those watching their blood sugar or trying to increase fruit intake, fruit crunchables offer a smart way to add sweetness without spiking glucose levels. They also count toward your daily fruit servings, so you get more nutritional bang for your bite.

• Croutons: ~120 cal, 4g fat, 200mg sodium, 0g fiber per ounce
• Fruit Crunchables: ~55 cal, 0g fat, 0mg sodium, 3g fiber per ounce
• Natural fruit sugars with no added sweeteners

Creative Salad Recipes Using Fruit Crunchables

Ready to get inspired? Try a Harvest Apple Salad with Apple Crisps Fruit Crunchables: combine mixed greens, sliced apple, dried cranberries, candied pecans, and crumbled feta. Top with a handful of apple crisp crunchables and a cider vinaigrette. The crunchables add an extra layer of apple flavor and texture without the need for croutons.

For a spicy-sweet option, make a Southwest Chicken Salad with Apple + Cinnamon Crisps. Use romaine, black beans, corn, grilled chicken, avocado, and a chipotle-lime dressing. The cinnamon crisps provide a surprising sweet heat that complements the smoky flavors. You can also use the Minis Variety Pack to add small, bite-sized crunchables to kid-friendly salads or lunchboxes.

• Harvest Apple Salad: greens, apple, cranberries, pecans, feta, apple crisps
• Southwest Chicken Salad: romaine, black beans, corn, avocado, cinnamon crisps
• Kid-friendly: use mini crunchables for smaller pieces

Next time you're making a salad, skip the croutons and reach for a pack of Fruit Crunchables instead. They're a simple, delicious way to add crunch, natural sweetness, and real fruit nutrition to your meal. Whether you choose apple crisps or cinnamon-spiced varieties, you'll never miss the bread. Explore the full range of Fruit Crunchables at That's It and start transforming your salads today.