Ambrosia Salad is a timeless dish that combines the creamy sweetness of whipped topping with juicy fruits, fluffy marshmallows, and a hint of tropical coconut. Whether you’re hosting a festive holiday dinner or a summer barbecue, this dessert or side dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and incredibly refreshing, Ambrosia Salad offers a balance of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved
1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
Instructions:
Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and whipped topping. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
Add the Ingredients
Gently fold in the marshmallows, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, and nuts (if using) until evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give it a gentle stir and garnish with extra cherries or nuts if desired.
Serving Tips:
Chill Before Serving: Serve Ambrosia Salad cold for the best flavor and texture. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Garnish: Add a touch of elegance with extra maraschino cherries, a sprinkle of shredded coconut, or a few chopped nuts on top.
Portion Ideas: Serve in individual bowls or scoop into small dessert cups for a party-friendly presentation.
Pairings: This salad pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like glazed ham, roast turkey, or grilled chicken.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftover Ambrosia Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Avoid Freezing: The creamy dressing and marshmallows do not freeze well, as they can become watery and lose their texture upon thawing.
Stir Before Serving: If storing leftovers, give the salad a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the creamy dressing.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but add the marshmallows just before serving to keep them fluffy.
Related Recipes:
- Creamy Cheesecake Fruit Salad
- Tropical Coconut Pineapple Salad Recipe
- Strawberry Banana Cheesecake Salad
FAQs:
Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?
Yes! Ambrosia Salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. This gives the flavors time to meld. To keep the marshmallows fluffy, add them just before serving.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple, mandarin oranges, or cherries can be used for a fresher taste. Make sure to peel, core, and chop the fruit into bite-sized pieces, and drain any excess juice to avoid making the salad watery.
Can I make Ambrosia Salad without whipped topping?
Yes, you can substitute whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher option. Beat heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, and use it as a replacement.
How long can Ambrosia Salad sit out at room temperature?
Ambrosia Salad should not sit out for more than 2 hours at room temperature to ensure food safety. If you’re serving it at an outdoor event, place the bowl over ice to keep it cool.
Conclusion:
Elevate your gatherings with this irresistible Ambrosia Salad. With its creamy base, juicy fruits, and fluffy marshmallows, it’s the perfect way to sweeten any occasion. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a family favorite!
📖 Recipe:
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Ambrosia Salad
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy this creamy Ambrosia Salad recipe, a delightful combination of juicy fruits, fluffy marshmallows, and a sweet, tangy dressing. Perfect as a dessert or side dish for holidays, potlucks, or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained
1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and whipped topping. Stir until smooth.
- Add mini marshmallows, pineapple chunks, mandarin oranges, shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, and nuts if desired.
- Gently fold until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld.
- Stir gently before serving and garnish with extra cherries or nuts if desired.
Notes
Make Ahead: Prepare up to 24 hours in advance; add marshmallows just before serving for the best texture.
Substitutions: Use Greek yogurt for a healthier option or fresh fruits for a fresher taste.
Optional Add-Ins: Add raisins, diced apples, or grapes for added variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 250 kcal
