Crossword Genius

Are you, as they say, taken in by strong Arab commander leaving home course? (5,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

fruit salad

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'course?' is the definition.
(a course in a meal)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for fruit salad that I've seen before include "Dessert served in syrup or juice" , "Oranges and Lemons etc" , "Possibly healthy dessert" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.
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