The BEST Ambrosia Salad

The BEST Ambrosia Salad is a delightful, colorful dish that evokes a sense of nostalgia and joy. This charming salad is characterized by its creamy texture, sweet bursts of fruit, and a hint of coconut that transports you to sun-kissed gatherings. Whether it’s a family reunion, holiday feast, or a simple weeknight dinner, Ambrosia Salad adds a cheerful touch to any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and a step-by-step approach, you’ll find this recipe not only easy to prepare but also an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ambrosia Salad is a breeze to make, making it a perfect addition to any gathering. The minimal ingredients mean less time grocery shopping and more time enjoying with loved ones. Family-friendly, this recipe appeals to both adults and children alike, ensuring that no one is left out when it comes to dessert. Its quick prep time means you can whip it up the night before, allowing it to chill and develop its flavors while you focus on other dishes. With its vibrant colors and light sweetness, this salad is a guaranteed hit that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Ingredients for The BEST Ambrosia Salad

To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup mini marshmallows – soft and chewy, providing a fun texture
1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained – sweet and juicy orbs that burst with flavor
1 can (20 oz) pineapple tidbits, drained – tropical goodness that adds a refreshing zing
1 cup sour cream – creamy and tangy, the perfect base for the salad
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut – a hint of tropical sweetness and texture
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved and drained – cherries that contribute a pop of color and sweetness
1 cup whipped topping – airy and light, for that silky finish
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional) – a crunchy element that adds depth and flavor

Step-by-Step Directions for The BEST Ambrosia Salad

Combine the base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mini marshmallows, drained mandarin oranges, drained pineapple tidbits, and sour cream. Stir gently to mix; ensuring the ingredients are well-distributed.
Add the toppings: Next, fold in the shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, and whipped topping into the bowl. Mix until everything is well-combined, creating a colorful and appealing mix.
Optional crunch: If you’re adding pecans, gently fold them in during this step for a delightful crunch.
Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serve: When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir and enjoy the visual appeal of your colorful and delightful Ambrosia Salad.

Tips & Tricks for The BEST Ambrosia Salad

To elevate your Ambrosia Salad, consider these chef’s secrets and optional extras:

Chill utensils: Before preparing your ingredients, chill your mixing bowl and utensils. This helps keep the whipped topping firm while you mix.
Coconut variety: For a richer coconut flavor, consider toasting your shredded coconut before adding it to the salad.
Fruit variations: Feel free to experiment with fruits! Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or peaches can add a delightful twist.
Make it lighter: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or a low-fat version, maintaining the creamy texture with fewer calories.
Easy serving: Use decorative bowls to serve the salad, making it visually stunning as a centerpiece.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Presenting The BEST Ambrosia Salad can be as enjoyable as making it! Serve in clear glass bowls to highlight the vibrant colors and layers of fruit and cream. For a festive touch, garnish each serving with a sprig of mint or a sprinkle of extra shredded coconut on top.

Pair your Ambrosia Salad with grilled meats or a simple barbecue spread; its fruity sweetness offsets savory dishes perfectly. It also works beautifully among an array of desserts, providing a light option amid heavier treats.

Nutritional Information for The BEST Ambrosia Salad

While Ambrosia Salad is indeed a sweet treat, it is also filled with nutritional benefits. A serving (about 1/2 cup) typically contains:

Calories: Approximately 200
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Sodium: 120mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 2g

For those indulging, keep in mind that while Ambrosia Salad is delicious, moderation is key to maintaining a balanced diet.

Storing Tips & Variations for The BEST Ambrosia Salad

Storing your Ambrosia Salad properly will keep it fresh for future enjoyment! It can be safely refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container. However, if you make it ahead of time, you may want to hold off on adding the pecans until serving to ensure they keep their crunch.

If you’d like to experiment, consider these healthier swaps and creative variations:

Swap fruit: Substitute any fruits like grapes or kiwi for a fresh twist.
Lower sugar: Opt for unsweetened coconut or reduced sugar fruit options.
Add yogurt: Use a combination of yogurt and sour cream for a tangy flavor with fewer calories.

Conclusion for The BEST Ambrosia Salad

Don’t wait to try The BEST Ambrosia Salad! This delightful dish is not only easy to prepare and fun to eat but also brings a touch of nostalgia to any meal. With its refreshing fruits, creamy texture, and simple steps, it’s bound to become a favorite for family meals and gatherings alike.

Dive right into the flavors of this colorful fruit salad and savor the joy that it brings to your table!

FAQs about The BEST Ambrosia Salad

1. Can I use fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes! Using fresh fruit will add a delightful crunch and vibrant taste; just be sure to adjust for sweetness accordingly.

2. How long can I store Ambrosia Salad in the fridge?
You can safely store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

3. Can I make Ambrosia Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing it a day before serving enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld together beautifully.

4. Is this recipe suitable for a potluck?
Yes! Its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor make it a perfect potluck dish.

5. What can I serve with Ambrosia Salad?
Serve it alongside grilled meats, BBQ dishes, or as part of a dessert spread for special occasions!

Ambrosia Salad

A delightful, colorful salad featuring creamy textures and sweet bursts of fruit, perfect for any gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Total Time 2

Course Dessert, Salad

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients

Base ingredients

1 cup mini marshmallows Soft and chewy, providing a fun texture
1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained Sweet and juicy orbs that burst with flavor
1 can (20 oz) pineapple tidbits, drained Tropical goodness that adds a refreshing zing
1 cup sour cream Creamy and tangy, the perfect base for the salad

Toppings

1 cup sweetened shredded coconut A hint of tropical sweetness and texture
1/2 cup maraschino cherries, halved and drained Cherries that contribute a pop of color and sweetness
1 cup whipped topping Airy and light, for that silky finish
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional) A crunchy element that adds depth and flavor

Instructions

Preparation

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mini marshmallows, drained mandarin oranges, drained pineapple tidbits, and sour cream. Stir gently to mix; ensuring the ingredients are well-distributed.
Next, fold in the shredded coconut, maraschino cherries, and whipped topping into the bowl. Mix until everything is well-combined, creating a colorful and appealing mix.
If adding pecans, gently fold them in during this step for a delightful crunch.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir and enjoy.

Notes

Chill your mixing bowl and utensils before preparing the ingredients to keep the whipped topping firm. You can also experiment with different fruits and lighter alternatives like Greek yogurt.

Keyword Ambrosia Salad, Easy Dessert, Fruit Salad, Summer Salad