Total time: 1 hr 25 min • Prep: 15 min • Cook: 10 min • Serves: 8 • Difficulty: Easy

A citrusy simple syrup made in a snap on the stovetop elevates this fruit salad above the ordinary. Simple syrup is a staple in any cocktail maven's bar repertoire, and while it can sound intimidating, it's actually decidedly easy to make and keep on hand for drinks or fruit salads. The most basic of syrups involves dissolving one part sugar to one part water by boiling. In this recipe, honey and sugar are dissolved in water, lime and orange juice with ground ginger. The blend will keep, refrigerated, for several days, so make a double batch while you're at it. Any combination of fresh fruit will work for this salad, but the pineapple and mango stand up to this ginger-spiked syrup beautifully.