Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Introduction
Ambrosia Salad is a classic, sweet fruit salad that combines creamy, tangy, and crunchy textures in every bite. This refreshing dish is perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a simple treat anytime you crave a light, fruity dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Cool Whip
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup halved maraschino cherries (stems removed), drained
- 3/4 cup toasted pecans
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the Cool Whip and sour cream until smooth and well blended.
- Step 2: Gently stir in the mini marshmallows, mandarin oranges, chopped pineapple, shredded coconut, halved maraschino cherries, and toasted pecans until evenly mixed.
- Step 3: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. It can be chilled overnight for best results.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds for added crunch.
- Try adding a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors and cut the sweetness slightly.
- Use crushed pineapple packed in juice rather than syrup to reduce added sugar.
Storage
Store the Ambrosia Salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Give it a gentle stir before serving if any liquid has settled. This salad is best enjoyed chilled and should not be frozen as the texture may change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?
Yes, making it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated and covered until ready to serve.
What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream or a thick Greek yogurt mixture for a fresher, less processed option.
PrintAmbrosia Salad Recipe
Ambrosia Salad is a classic, creamy fruit salad combining sweet mandarin oranges, pineapple, coconut, marshmallows, and nuts in a smooth mixture of Cool Whip and sour cream. This refreshing and easy-to-make dessert is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or holiday gatherings, with a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors and a variety of textures.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1 1/2 cups Cool Whip
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Fruit and Mix-ins
- 3 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 (15-oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup halved maraschino cherries (stems removed), drained
- 3/4 cup toasted pecans
Instructions
- Combine Dressing: In a large bowl, toss together Cool Whip and sour cream until smooth and well blended, creating a creamy base for the salad.
- Add Ingredients: Gently fold in the mini marshmallows, drained mandarin oranges, chopped pineapple, shredded coconut, halved maraschino cherries, and toasted pecans. Stir carefully to evenly distribute the ingredients without breaking the fruit pieces.
- Chill Salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the marshmallows to soften; it can be chilled up to overnight for best results.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- To toast pecans, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, stirring often to prevent burning.
- Ensure all canned fruit is well drained to prevent a watery salad.
- This salad is best served chilled and consumed within 2 days for freshness.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds.
Keywords: Ambrosia Salad, Fruit Salad, Cool Whip Salad, Holiday Salad, Easy Dessert, Picnic Salad
